A product of Berlex, Inc.(996344), YAZ® (3 mg drospirenone/20 mcg ethinyl estradiol), has recently been approved by the USFDA for the treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in women who opts to use oral contraceptive for birth control.
The said approval has turned YAZ® into the first and only oral contraceptive ever approved by the FDA for three distinct indications:
- FDA approved as an oral contraceptive in March 2006
- FDA approved as treatment for the emotional and physical symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in women who desire an oral contraceptive in October 2006
- most recent approval: treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in women who opts to use oral contraceptive for birth control.
Unlike other progestins, drospirenone has unique antimineralocorticoid (mild diuretic effect) and antiandrogenic properties. The antiandrogenic property of drospirenone means that it blocks the male sex hormones that can cause acne.
Therefore, it is not surprising that this combination of hormones in a longer active pill regimen treats severe menstrual issues that women experience as well as acne. Studies show that acne tends to flare up in women just prior to or during menstruation.
Berlex, Inc. is a U.S. affiliate of Bayer Schering Pharma AG (FRA: SCH, OTC: SHRGY).
Find more details from the press release.
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