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OC - Drospirenone plus Ethynylestradiol
Drospirenone and ethinylestradiol work together as an oral contraceptive by suppressing ovulation through progestin and estrogen activity.
Drospirenone and ethynylestradiol work together as a combined oral contraceptive by suppressing ovulation through progestin and estrogen activity. Used for Contraception / prevention of pregnancy, Acne vulgaris (in some formulations), Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
At a glance
| Generic name | OC - Drospirenone plus Ethynylestradiol |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Federico II University |
| Drug class | Combined oral contraceptive |
| Target | Estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, mineralocorticoid receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Contraception / Gynecology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic estrogen that inhibits the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge needed for ovulation, while drospirenone is a progestin with antimineralocorticoid activity that further suppresses follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm penetration. Together, these hormones prevent pregnancy through multiple mechanisms including ovulation inhibition, cervical mucus thickening, and endometrial changes.
Approved indications
- Contraception (pregnancy prevention)
- Acne vulgaris (in some formulations)
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Breakthrough bleeding
- Mood changes
- Venous thromboembolism
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