What is Estelle-35 good for? Acne and hirsutism control
Estelle-35, also known as Estelle-35 ED in some markets, contains a combination of cyproterone acetate (a progestogen) and ethinylestradiol (an estrogen). It is specifically used to treat women with conditions related to an increased sensitivity to or higher levels of androgen hormones. Androgens can cause masculinizing effects in women, leading to certain dermatological and hair-growth issues.
Key uses for Estelle-35 include:
- Severe acne: It is indicated for treating severe acne, particularly inflammatory or cystic forms, that have not responded well to other treatments like prolonged oral antibiotics or topical therapies.
- Hirsutism: The medication is also used for managing mild to moderate hirsutism, which is the excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back.
- Seborrhea: Excessive greasiness of the skin and hair, known as seborrhea, can be effectively treated with Estelle-35, with effects often appearing within a few months.
- Oral Contraception: In addition to its therapeutic benefits for androgen-dependent conditions, Estelle-35 also acts as an effective oral contraceptive. However, it is not recommended for contraception alone.
Estelle-35 works by reducing the levels of free, biologically available androgen in the bloodstream and competing for androgen receptors in the skin. This helps to address the underlying hormonal cause of these conditions. It's important to note that treatment for conditions like hirsutism may take several months to show significant results, and the medication should be withdrawn a few cycles after the treated condition has completely resolved.
What is Nextstellis good for? A novel birth control option
Nextstellis, a newer oral contraceptive sometimes referred to as Estelle, is primarily used for pregnancy prevention. Its key distinction is its use of a unique natural estrogen called estetrol (E4), which is synthesized from a plant source. Nextstellis is a combined pill containing estetrol and the progestin drospirenone.
This medication offers several potential advantages over traditional combined oral contraceptives that use ethinyl estradiol:
- Fewer estrogen-related side effects: Estetrol has a more selective action on tissues, meaning it may cause less breast tenderness and pain compared to other combined pills.
- Reduced spotting: Users of Nextstellis have reported less breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods.
- Lower blood clot risk: Some research suggests that Nextstellis may have a lower risk of blood clotting compared to other birth control pills, though this should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
- Contraceptive efficacy: Nextstellis is highly effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly, with clinical trials showing it to be about 98% effective.
Comparison table: Estelle-35 vs. Nextstellis
| Feature | Estelle-35 / Estelle-35 ED | Nextstellis |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Cyproterone acetate + Ethinylestradiol | Estetrol (E4) + Drospirenone |
| Primary Use | Treatment of severe acne, hirsutism, and seborrhea in women. Also provides contraception. | Oral contraception to prevent pregnancy. |
| Contraception Only? | Not recommended for use solely as a contraceptive. | Intended for contraceptive use. |
| Type of Estrogen | Synthetic (Ethinylestradiol) | Natural (Estetrol, or E4) |
| Potential Side Effect | May have higher risk of venous thromboembolism compared to Nextstellis. | May have lower risk of blood clotting and less breast tenderness. |
Important considerations and side effects
Both Estelle-35 and Nextstellis are powerful hormonal medications that require a prescription and medical supervision. Potential side effects can vary depending on the specific formulation. Users of Estelle-35 may experience side effects similar to other combined oral contraceptives, such as nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and mood changes. Given the anti-androgenic effect, skin conditions like acne may worsen initially before improving.
For Nextstellis, the risk profile is considered by some studies to be different due to its unique estrogen component. Common side effects reported for combined oral contraceptives in general can also occur with Nextstellis, although potentially at lower rates for some effects. These can include nausea, headaches, and changes in mood.
Both medications carry a risk of more serious side effects, most notably an increased risk of venous and arterial thromboembolic disorders (blood clots). Other serious conditions associated with combination oral contraceptive use include liver tumours and disturbances, hypertension, and potential changes in lipid or glucose metabolism. It is crucial to discuss personal and family medical history with a doctor before starting either medication. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a history of blood clots, or certain other medical conditions should not use these products.
Conclusion
The question of what is Estelle good for depends entirely on the specific formulation. Estelle-35 is a combined hormonal pill primarily prescribed to treat androgen-dependent conditions like severe acne, hirsutism, and seborrhea, while providing contraception as a secondary effect. In contrast, Nextstellis is a modern oral contraceptive that uses a natural estrogen to prevent pregnancy, potentially with a more favourable side effect profile, especially concerning breast pain and spotting. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment based on your individual needs and medical history, as both medications have different purposes and risk profiles.
