Clairette

"Clairette is a dual-action medication typically prescribed to women of reproductive age who suffer from persistent skin conditions like severe acne or moderately severe hirsutism (excessive hair growth) that have not responded to other treatments. As a co-cyprindiol preparation, it works by balancing hormones to reduce sebum production and unwanted hair growth while simultaneously providing effective protection against pregnancy. It is essential that patients do not take any other hormonal contraceptives alongside Clairette to ensure safety." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)

You can buy Clairette Pill through our streamlined online consultation process which is reviewed by a UK registered prescriber to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate for your health needs. Once your consultation is approved, your medication is shipped directly from our pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) in discreet packaging to maintain your privacy. This service provides a convenient way to manage your prescriptions without the need for a face-to-face appointment, with all orders handled by a regulated UK pharmacy.

The cost of Clairette Pill reflects its status as a prescription-only medication and a generic version of the brand Dianette, often providing a cost-effective choice for long-term treatment. Prices may vary depending on the quantity prescribed by our clinical team during your consultation. By ordering through Mail My Meds, you can access competitive pricing for both private and NHS repeat prescriptions delivered to your door.

We provide various delivery options to suit your schedule, ensuring that your treatment reaches you promptly after your prescription has been approved. All orders are sent in plain, unbranded packaging so that the contents remain completely confidential. You can track your order from our pharmacy to your home, giving you peace of mind that your medication will arrive when you need it.

Clairette is a type of medicine known as co-cyprindiol, which is used to treat health conditions caused by a sensitivity to androgen hormones. While it is highly effective at preventing pregnancy, it is specifically indicated for women suffering from severe acne that has not improved with antibiotics, or for those dealing with hirsutism. It helps to regulate the hormones responsible for oily skin and excess hair growth, typically showing visible results after three months of consistent use.

The Clairette Pill contains two main active ingredients that work together to manage hormonal symptoms and provide contraception. Each tablet contains:

• Cyproterone acetate (2mg): An anti-androgen that blocks the effects of male hormones on the skin and hair follicles.
• Ethinylestradiol (35mcg): A synthetic oestrogen that helps regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation.

Many women report a significant improvement in skin clarity and a reduction in the thickness of unwanted body hair after several months of treatment. User experiences often highlight that Clairette is particularly helpful for those who have struggled with hormonal breakouts that other topical creams failed to clear. While some users may experience initial side effects during the first few cycles, many find the dual benefit of skin clearance and birth control to be highly beneficial for their daily confidence.

It is vital to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) included with your medication before you start taking Clairette. This document contains comprehensive details regarding the correct usage, a full list of ingredients and specific safety warnings. You should keep this leaflet for reference throughout your treatment cycle to ensure you are aware of how to manage missed pills or identify rare side effects.

Clairette works by reducing the activity of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles, which are often overstimulated by androgen hormones. The cyproterone acetate inhibits these androgens, preventing the skin from becoming excessively oily and stopping the pores from becoming blocked and infected. Simultaneously, the ethinylestradiol works with the progestogen to stop the ovaries from releasing an egg each month, providing reliable contraception.

You should take Clairette by swallowing one tablet whole with water at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level of hormones in your body. The tablets are marked with the days of the week to help you keep track of your doses. It is important to follow the arrows on the blister pack to ensure you do not miss a day, as this could reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

The standard dosage for Clairette is one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day pill-free break. During this break, you will usually experience a withdrawal bleed similar to a period. You must start your next pack on the eighth day, even if you are still bleeding, to ensure you remain protected against pregnancy and to continue the treatment for your skin.

Like all hormonal medications, Clairette can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects often settle down after the first few months as your body adjusts to the hormones.

Clairette carries an increased risk of blood clots (venous thromboembolism) compared to some other types of birth control pills, so your medical history must be reviewed carefully. You should not take Clairette if you have a history of blood clots, certain types of cancer, or severe liver disease. It is also important to tell your prescriber if you smoke, are overweight, or have high blood pressure, as these factors can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues.

Clairette is the generic version of Dianette and contains the exact same active ingredients, meaning it works in the same way to treat acne and hirsutism. Compared to standard contraceptive pills like Rigevidon or Microgynon, Clairette is specifically designed for its anti-androgen properties, making it a "second-line" treatment for skin issues rather than just a birth control method.

Is Clairette better than Dianette?

Both medications are bioequivalent, meaning they contain the same amount of active hormones and produce the same clinical effects. The primary difference is the branding and the price, with Clairette often being the more affordable option for patients and the NHS.

Can I use Clairette only for contraception?

In the UK, Clairette is not licensed for use solely as a contraceptive. It should only be prescribed if you also require treatment for androgen-sensitive skin conditions or hirsutism.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist for personalised medical advice regarding your health and treatments.

Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts to ensure it is up to date, accurate and reflects the latest UK clinical guidelines. We strive to provide reliable information to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.