What is Liane 35?
Liane 35 is a brand name for a hormonal medication that contains a combination of two active ingredients: cyproterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol. It is a combined oral contraceptive (COC) pill, but it differs from typical COCs because of its potent anti-androgenic effects. Androgens are male sex hormones that are also present in smaller amounts in women, and an excess or increased sensitivity to these hormones can lead to certain skin and hair conditions.
Liane 35 Uses and Indications
Liane 35 is not a first-line treatment and is generally reserved for specific conditions that have not responded to other therapies. Its indications primarily focus on treating severe androgen-related issues in women of reproductive age.
- Severe Acne: The medication is used for moderate to severe acne, particularly when other treatments, such as topical therapy or systemic antibiotics, have proven ineffective. The anti-androgenic component helps to reduce the increased sebaceous gland function, which is a major contributing factor to the development of acne.
- Hirsutism: Liane 35 is also indicated for treating hirsutism, which is excessive or unwanted hair growth on the face or body. By blocking the effects of androgens, the medication can lead to a gradual regression of this symptom, though results typically become apparent after several months of use.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): It can be used to manage androgen-related symptoms associated with PCOS, including acne and hirsutism.
- Contraception: As a hormonal combination, Liane 35 also provides effective birth control. It prevents pregnancy primarily by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and making the uterine lining less receptive to implantation. It is crucial to understand that it should not be prescribed only for contraception, but rather for women who require it for both its contraceptive and anti-androgenic effects.
Mechanism of Action
The therapeutic effects of Liane 35 are a result of its two-pronged hormonal approach:
- Cyproterone Acetate: This component acts as a potent anti-androgen. It works by competitively blocking androgen receptors in target organs, which prevents androgens from binding to them. Additionally, it has a progestational action that suppresses ovarian androgen synthesis.
- Ethinyl Estradiol: The estrogenic component serves to increase the levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in the blood. This effectively reduces the amount of free androgens circulating in the body, which further contributes to the anti-androgenic effect.
Important Safety Information and Risks
Before starting Liane 35, a thorough medical history and evaluation are necessary to weigh the benefits against potential risks. Users should be aware of the following serious risks:
- Venous Thromboembolism (VTE): Liane 35 carries an increased risk of blood clots compared to no use and a higher risk than some other COCs, particularly those containing levonorgestrel. The risk is highest during the first year of use.
- Arterial Thromboembolism (ATE): The risk of conditions like heart attack and stroke is also increased, particularly in women with other risk factors such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
- Liver Problems: Liane 35 is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe liver disease or liver tumours. Rare cases of liver damage have been reported.
- Contraindications: The medication should not be used by women who have or have had a history of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, certain types of cancer (breast, genital), uncontrolled hypertension, severe diabetes with vascular complications, or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Smoking, especially in women over 35, significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events and is a major contraindication.
- Mental/Mood Changes: Depression and mood swings have been reported as side effects.
Side Effects of Liane 35
Patients may experience several side effects while taking Liane 35. Many common side effects, such as mild spotting, tend to resolve after a few cycles as the body adjusts. However, some side effects may persist or become bothersome. It is important to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches or migraines
- Breast tenderness or enlargement
- Weight gain or fluid retention
- Changes in mood, including depression
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
- Decreased libido
- Changes in vaginal discharge
- Dark skin patches (melasma)
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Comparison of Liane 35 to Other Oral Contraceptives
| Feature | Liane 35 (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) | Standard Oral Contraceptive (e.g., Levonorgestrel-based) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Treatment of severe acne and hirsutism in women. | Primarily for pregnancy prevention. |
| Anti-androgen Effect | Strong anti-androgenic effect due to cyproterone acetate. | Minimal or no anti-androgenic effect, though some may offer minor skin benefits. |
| Risk of VTE (Blood Clots) | Increased risk, significantly higher than levonorgestrel-based pills. | Lower risk compared to Liane 35. |
| Recommended Duration | Often prescribed for a limited period (e.g., 6-12 months) for skin treatment. | Typically used for long-term contraception. |
| Contraindications | Extensive, including a history of blood clots, liver disease, and specific cancers. | Standard COCs have contraindications, but the specific risks associated with cyproterone are not applicable. |
| Hormone Combination | Cyproterone Acetate (progestin) and Ethinyl Estradiol (estrogen). | Various progestins (e.g., Levonorgestrel, Desogestrel) combined with ethinyl estradiol. |
How Liane 35 is Administered
Liane 35 is typically administered in a cyclical manner over a 28-day period. A pack usually contains 21 active tablets and may include 7 non-active (placebo) tablets. A user takes one active tablet daily for 21 days, followed by a 7-day tablet-free or placebo interval. A new pack is started immediately after the 7-day break, whether menstruation has finished or not. This consistent schedule helps to maintain hormonal balance and therapeutic effect.
Conclusion
Liane 35 is a potent hormonal medication containing cyproterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol, primarily intended for the treatment of severe androgen-related conditions in women, including recalcitrant acne and hirsutism. Its contraceptive properties are an additional function, but due to a higher risk profile, particularly concerning blood clots, it is not recommended for contraception alone. Given the significant risks and contraindications, Liane 35 should only be used under strict medical supervision and for the shortest duration necessary to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Any individual considering this treatment must have a thorough discussion with their doctor to ensure it is the most appropriate and safest option for their specific medical needs.
For more detailed product information, refer to the Bayer Diane-35 product leaflet, which contains the same active ingredients as Liane 35.
