Buy Diane 35
Diane 35

$1.03
Delivery
Airmail (14-21 days) | EMS trackable (5-9 days)
Prescription
Issued on site / Included
Availability
In Stock
Product is shipped in a fully discreet envelope with no content disclosure, including all required documentation inside

Diane 35 Properties

Primary Category
Pharmacological Class
Antiandrogen, Synthetic Estrogen, Synthetic Progestin
Serious Side Effects
Dosage Forms
Tablets
Administration Route
Oral
Mechanism of Action
Works by reducing the levels of male hormones (androgens) in the body and providing contraception. This helps to improve conditions like severe acne and excessive hair growth.
Prescription Status
Rx
Patient Summary
Used to treat severe acne and excessive hair growth in women, particularly when these conditions are caused by an excess of male hormones. It also acts as an oral contraceptive.
Onset Time
Effects on skin and hair growth may take several months; contraceptive effect begins after 7 days of correct use.
Duration
24 hours (when taken daily)
Storage Instructions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture.
Age Restrictions
Not recommended for use before first menstruation or after menopause.
Pregnancy Use
Do not use during pregnancy. Not recommended during breastfeeding.

About Diane 35

Diane 35 is a combined oral contraceptive containing cyproterone acetate (2 mg) and ethinylestradiol (.035 mg) presented as a generic tablet marketed in Australia. It is prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe acne, hirsutism, and seborrhoeic dermatitis in women, while simultaneously providing reliable contraception. The formulation belongs to the class of combined hormonal contraceptives and anti-androgenic agents, offering clinicians a dual therapeutic option for dermatologic and reproductive health concerns.

What is Generic Diane 35 (Cyproterone Acetate, Ethinylestradiol)?

Generic Diane 35 (Cyproterone Acetate, Ethinylestradiol) is a prescription-only tablet (Schedule 4) approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in adult women. The product combines a synthetic progestogen with potent anti-androgen activity (cyproterone acetate) and a low-dose estrogen (ethinylestradiol) that together suppress ovarian androgen production, stabilize the endometrium, and prevent ovulation. In Australia, it is listed for the management of acne, seborrhoea, hirsutism, and as a reliable method of contraception. Generic versions are bioequivalent to the original brand formulation and offer a cost-effective alternative without compromising efficacy.

How Diane 35 Works

Cyproterone acetate acts as a selective progesterone receptor agonist and a competitive antagonist at androgen receptors. By binding to these receptors, it blocks the effects of circulating testosterone and dihydrotestosterone on sebaceous glands and hair follicles, thereby reducing oil production and hair growth. Additionally, cyproterone acetate provides a progestogenic signal that inhibits the mid-cycle luteinising hormone surge, contributing to contraceptive efficacy.

Ethinylestradiol, a synthetic estrogen, exerts negative feedback on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. This suppresses follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion, leading to decreased ovarian androgen synthesis. The estrogen component also stabilises the endometrial lining, reducing breakthrough bleeding and enhancing overall cycle control.

Pharmacokinetically, both agents are well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 1-2 hours after ingestion. Ethinylestradiol has an elimination half-life of approximately 24 hours, while cyproterone acetate’s half-life ranges from 30 to 40 hours, allowing steady-state levels after about five days of daily dosing. Metabolism occurs primarily via hepatic CYP3A4, and metabolites are excreted in urine and bile. The formulation’s design ensures consistent daily hormone exposure, which is essential for both anti-androgenic and contraceptive effects.

Why Diane 35 is Used for Women’s Health and Dermatology Conditions

  • Acne vulgaris (moderate to severe):

    • Mechanistic link: By antagonising androgen receptors on sebocytes, cyproterone acetate reduces sebum production, a key driver of comedone formation.
    • Guideline position: Recommended as a second-line option in Australian dermatology guidelines after topical agents and oral antibiotics.
    • Comparison: Offers superior long-term control compared with oral tetracyclines, which lack anti-androgenic activity.
  • Hirsutism:

    • Mechanistic link: Blocking androgen receptors on hair follicles diminishes terminal hair growth.
    • Guideline position: First-line systemic therapy for women who desire concomitant contraception.
    • Comparison: More effective than spironolactone alone for rapid hair reduction, especially when combined with estrogen.
  • Seborrhoeic dermatitis:

    • Mechanistic link: Reduced sebum limits colonisation by Malassezia species, alleviating inflammatory lesions.
    • Guideline position: Adjunct to topical antifungals for refractory cases.
    • Comparison: Provides dual benefit of skin improvement and birth control, unlike isolated antifungal regimens.
  • Contraception:

    • Mechanistic link: Suppression of the LH surge prevents ovulation; endometrial stabilisation reduces breakthrough bleeding.
    • Guideline position: Listed as a combined oral contraceptive (COC) option in the National Contraception Guidelines.
    • Comparison: Comparable pregnancy-preventive efficacy to other low-dose COCs, with the added advantage of anti-androgenic effects.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Diane 35

Clinical studies have explored the use of cyproterone acetate/ethinylestradiol combinations in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-related hyperandrogenism and in transgender hormone therapy. Small randomized trials suggest modest improvements in menstrual regularity and androgenic symptoms in PCOS patients, but the formulation is not approved for this indication in Australia. Off-label use should only be considered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

Is Diane 35 Right for You?

Diane 35 is most suitable for adult women who need both effective contraception and treatment of androgen-dependent skin conditions. Ideal candidates often have:

  • Persistent moderate-to-severe acne unresponsive to topical therapy.
  • Clinically significant hirsutism that impacts quality of life.
  • No history of thromboembolic events, uncontrolled hypertension, or active liver disease.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid the product, as hormonal exposure can affect fetal development and milk production. Women over 35 who smoke heavily face an elevated risk of cardiovascular complications and should consider non-hormonal alternatives. Renal or hepatic impairment may necessitate dose adjustments or closer monitoring.

Taking Diane 35 Effectively

  • Timing: Take one tablet at the same time each day, preferably with a glass of water, to maintain steady hormone levels.
  • Food interactions: The tablet can be taken with or without food; however, high-fat meals may slightly delay absorption, which is clinically insignificant.
  • Missed dose: If a pill is missed by less than 12 hours, take it as soon as remembered and continue the pack. If the lapse exceeds 12 hours, use a backup method (e.g., condom) for the next 7 days.
  • Travel: For long-haul flights, keep pills in your hand luggage to avoid temperature extremes.
  • Lifestyle: Regular moderate exercise and a low-glycaemic diet can enhance skin outcomes and mitigate weight gain sometimes observed with hormonal contraceptives.

Understanding Side Effects and How to Manage Them

  • Nausea and mild gastrointestinal upset: Common during the first cycle as the body adapts to hormonal changes. Taking the tablet with food can ease discomfort.
  • Breast tenderness: Estrogen-mediated fluid retention often resolves after 2-3 weeks; supportive bras may provide relief.
  • Headache or mood fluctuations: Linked to fluctuations in estrogen levels. If persistent, discuss alternative COCs with your clinician.
  • Weight gain: Mostly due to fluid retention rather than adipose tissue; monitor sodium intake and stay hydrated.
  • Breakthrough bleeding: May occur during the initial two months; consistent daily intake usually resolves this.
  • Serious but rare events: Venous thromboembolism, hepatic adenoma, and severe hypertension. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience unexplained leg swelling, severe abdominal pain, visual changes, or sudden headaches.

Buying Diane 35 from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service?

Our online pharmacy offers a discreet, convenient way to obtain generic Diane 35, especially when local pharmacies have limited stock or when insurance coverage restricts access to hormonal therapies.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed Australian pharmacies that adhere to TGA-mandated manufacturing standards. All products undergo verification for authenticity, potency, and packaging integrity before dispatch.

Pricing & Access

Because Diane 35 is available as a generic tablet, the cost per pack is substantially lower than brand-name equivalents. We provide a lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, making long-term treatment more affordable for chronic skin conditions.

Discreet Delivery

Orders are shipped in unbranded, tamper-evident packaging. Express delivery reaches most metropolitan areas within 7 days, while standard shipping typically arrives within 3 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long will it take to see skin improvement? Most women notice a reduction in acne lesions after 8-12 weeks of continuous use, while hair growth may require 6 months to show visible change.

  • Can I use Diane 35 if I have a history of blood clots? A prior thrombotic event is a contraindication for combined hormonal contraceptives. Discuss alternative non-hormonal methods with your clinician.

  • Is it safe to start Diane 35 while taking antibiotics? Most antibiotics, except rifampicin, do not reduce the efficacy of Diane 35. Always inform your prescriber of all concurrent medications.

  • What should I do if I gain weight while on Diane 35? Evaluate dietary habits and physical activity; modest weight gain is often fluid-related and may resolve spontaneously. If weight gain persists, your doctor may consider switching to a different formulation.

  • Can Diane 35 be used as emergency contraception? No. The tablet is not indicated for post-coital emergency use. A dedicated emergency contraceptive pill should be used instead.

  • How does Diane 35 compare with spironolactone for hirsutism? Diane 35 provides simultaneous contraception and anti-androgenic effects, whereas spironolactone lacks contraceptive properties and may require additional birth control measures.

  • Will smoking affect the safety of Diane 35? Smoking, especially in women over 35, significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events with combined hormonal contraceptives. Non-smokers or younger smokers may use the product with caution, but cessation is strongly advised.

  • Is it necessary to have a Pap smear before starting Diane 35? A recent cervical screening is recommended to ensure baseline health, but it is not a prerequisite for prescribing the medication.

  • Can I switch from another combined oral contraceptive to Diane 35 without a washout period? Yes, a direct switch is permissible if the previous pill was taken correctly; start Diane 35 on the first day of the next menstrual cycle or after a 7-day hormone-free interval.

  • What is the impact of Diane 35 on bone health? Low-dose estrogen in combined oral contraceptives helps maintain bone mineral density, offering a neutral or slightly protective effect compared with non-hormonal options.

Glossary

Anti-androgen
A substance that blocks the physiological actions of male hormones (androgens) at their receptor sites, reducing effects such as sebum production and hair growth.
Combined oral contraceptive (COC)
A birth-control pill that contains both an estrogen and a progestogen, working together to suppress ovulation and alter cervical mucus.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4)
An enzyme in the liver responsible for metabolising many drugs, including the hormones in Diane 35; inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4 can affect hormone levels.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Diane 35 is for general knowledge only and does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions, including those regarding off-label use, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Diane 35 for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.

External Resources about Diane 35


Information Prepared By

Sarah Jones
Tosin (Olalekan) Olaluwoye, MD, PhD