Dianette is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of severe acne and hirsutism in women of reproductive age. It contains a combination of cyproterone acetate, a type of anti-androgen that works by blocking the effects of male hormones which can contribute to acne and excessive hair growth, and ethinylestradiol, a synthetic version of the female hormone estrogen. Besides its use in dermatology, Dianette also functions as an oral contraceptive, providing effective birth control by preventing ovulation, altering the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg, and changing the lining of the uterus to prevent attachment of a fertilized egg. Due to its potent effects and potential side effects, Dianette is usually prescribed after other treatments have been tried or in cases where a contraceptive effect is also desired. It is important for patients to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider while on Dianette due to the risk of serious side effects, including blood clots.