Clairette is a hormonal medication known as a combined oral contraceptive (COC), which serves a dual purpose in women's health. The primary and most common uses are for addressing skin conditions and excessive hair growth caused by hormone imbalances, as well as providing effective contraception. It is a prescription-only treatment that should only be used under a doctor's supervision due to its specific indications and potential side effects.
The composition and mechanism of Clairette
Clairette contains two active ingredients: cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol.
- Cyproterone Acetate: This component acts as both a progestogen and a potent anti-androgen. Androgens, or male hormones, can stimulate the skin's grease glands and hair follicles. For women with an overproduction of androgens or a heightened sensitivity to them, this can lead to excessive sebum production, acne, and hirsutism. Cyproterone acetate works by blocking these androgen hormones from affecting the skin and hair, and also reduces the overall amount of androgens produced in the ovaries.
- Ethinylestradiol: This is a synthetic form of estrogen. Its role is to balance the effects of the anti-androgen and regulate the menstrual cycle. It works together with the progestogen to inhibit ovulation, thicken cervical mucus to impede sperm, and alter the uterine lining to prevent implantation, thereby providing effective contraception.
Medical conditions treated by Clairette
Clairette is typically prescribed for women of reproductive age who suffer from certain androgen-dependent conditions that have not responded to other treatments.
- Moderate to Severe Acne: For women whose acne persists despite using topical treatments and antibiotics, Clairette can be a suitable option. By reducing sebum production and blocking the hormonal triggers for acne, it can lead to significant skin improvement.
- Excessively Oily Skin (Seborrhea): The anti-androgenic effects of the medication also help to control and reduce the amount of oil produced by the skin's sebaceous glands.
- Excessive Hair Growth (Hirsutism): Clairette is effective in treating hirsutism, which is the growth of thick, dark hair in places typically associated with male hair growth, such as the face, chest, and back. The anti-androgen helps reduce this unwanted hair growth over time.
- Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): As many women with PCOS experience hyperandrogenic symptoms like acne and hirsutism, Clairette is often prescribed to manage these manifestations. It also helps regulate irregular periods common in PCOS patients.
Comparison of hormonal acne treatments
Not all hormonal treatments for acne are the same. Below is a comparison of Clairette with other common options, highlighting their key differences.
| Feature | Clairette | Standard Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) | Topical Treatments (e.g., Retinoids, Adapalene) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Contains a potent anti-androgen (cyproterone acetate) to block androgen effects, plus an estrogen for contraception. | Contains an estrogen and a progestin, suppressing ovulation. Some have mild anti-androgenic effects, but not as strong as Clairette. | Directly applied to the skin to unblock pores and reduce inflammation; does not address hormonal causes. |
| Primary Purpose | Primarily for treating severe androgen-related skin issues (acne, hirsutism). Contraception is a significant secondary effect. | Primarily for contraception. Can help with milder hormonal acne due to overall hormone regulation. | Specifically for treating acne by clearing pores and reducing inflammation at the source. |
| Required Use | Prescribed for androgen-dependent conditions after other treatments fail. Not for contraception only due to higher risks. | Widely used for contraception and milder acne. Generally lower risk profile than Clairette. | Used when the cause of acne is not primarily hormonal, or in combination with other treatments. |
| Side Effect Profile | Increased risk of blood clots (venous thromboembolism) compared to other COCs. Common side effects include mood swings, weight gain, and headaches. | Lower risk of blood clots compared to Clairette, but still present. Common side effects similar to Clairette. | Local skin reactions (redness, dryness, irritation). No systemic side effects. |
Cautions and risks associated with Clairette
Due to the potent anti-androgenic and hormonal properties, Clairette carries certain risks that necessitate careful consideration and medical oversight.
Increased risk of blood clots
All combined hormonal contraceptives, including Clairette, carry a risk of blood clots (thrombosis). This risk is higher during the first year of use, and while still rare, the potential for a blood clot can be serious, and even fatal. Factors that further increase this risk include smoking, being overweight, increasing age, and a family history of blood clots. Patients with a history of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke should not take Clairette.
Cancer risks
Long-term use of combined oral contraceptives may be associated with a slightly increased risk of certain cancers, such as cervical cancer. The risk of breast cancer also increases the longer the pill is used, but returns to normal after stopping. However, COCs can also reduce the risk of ovarian and womb cancer.
Other side effects
Common and less serious side effects of Clairette can include:
- Headaches
- Nausea and stomach pain
- Weight changes
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes, including depression
- Breakthrough bleeding or irregular periods
- Fluid retention
Contraindications
Clairette is not suitable for all women. It is contraindicated in those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have certain medical conditions, including:
- A history of blood clots or heart disease
- Severe liver disease or tumors
- Uncontrolled diabetes with vascular complications
- Migraines with aura
- Certain clotting disorders
Conclusion
In summary, what is clairette used for? It is a specific combined oral contraceptive pill for women with severe androgen-related conditions like acne and hirsutism, which have not improved with other therapies. Its active ingredients, cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol, work to both control androgens and prevent pregnancy. While effective for its indicated uses, it is not a first-line treatment and carries a higher risk profile, particularly concerning blood clots, compared to standard birth control pills. A thorough medical consultation is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks before starting this medication.
For more detailed information, consult the Drugs.com patient leaflet for Clairette® 2000/35 Tablets.(https://www.drugs.com/uk/clairette-2000-35-tablets-leaflet.html)
