cyproterone acetate side effects

Matilda2 · 03-02-2004, 02:11 AM

Does anyone know about the side effects of cyproterone acetate? I am considering adding it to my dianette. I am concerned that it may increase/cause insulin resistance. I am sure I read this somewhere ONCE but cannot find it anywhere. I am also concerned about weight gain, because this is mentioned on the leaflet as a possible side effect. Whether or not the weight gain side effect is linked to insulin resistance would be useful to know. I have spoken to my pharmacist and endo about this but neither has a clue. I know that dianette has 2mg, and that in such a small amount the side effects are less likely to happen, but I am concerned about raising the dose, and wish to find out as much as possible beforehand.

OK, TMI alert...I think the dianette has changed my pubic hair, so it is lighter, more wiry, and possible to pull out (without incredible pain,) It is not growing out thicker or thinner though. Does anyone else have this? Can it have a similar affect on scalp hair (probably not, but hey you never know.)

I have the option of trying spironolactone instead. I also am concerned about the side effects of spironolactone. Can it affect the thyroid?

hopeless · 03-03-2004, 01:20 AM

I checked the AACE's guideline and it doesn't mention insulin resistance. It isn't approved by the FDA. AACE says that cyproterone acetate with ethinyl estradiol is equal to or slightly superior to spiro and BCPs. It doesn't say much about side effects though....

here's the site if you want to read it for yourself:

http://www.aace.com/clin/guidelines/...genism2001.pdf

LaurieAnne83 · 03-03-2004, 08:18 AM

I'm really not sure.. I'm going to be starting Diane for the first time... but I know that the much larger dose is going to cause a lot more side effects. While the lower dose is very well researched in PCOS...I really don't think the large dose is. Could you try spironolactone plus diane=35? I have been taking spironolactone for over 3 yrs.. I was afraid the first couple weeks but it has never caused me any problems.. and helps me from getting weight gain around my period. Right now I am on ortho tri cyclen.. but will be switching to Diane 35, and I am on 25 mg 2 x a day on spiro and am going up to 50 mg 2 x a day.

LaurieAnne83 · 03-03-2004, 08:21 AM

Btw, any anti androgen is hopefully going to cause more head hair growth and less body and facial hair. (DHT makes body hair grow and head hair fall out..thats why you see all the bald men with big thick beards..)