The Effect of Two Combined Oral Contraceptives Containing Either Drospirenone or Cyproterone Acetate on Acne and Seborrhea

In a clinical trial conducted 22 years ago, the effects of two combined oral contraceptives containing either drospirenone (DRSP) or cyproterone acetate (CPA) on mild-to-moderate acne were compared. The study involved 128 women over 9 treatment cycles. The results showed that both contraceptives significantly reduced acne lesions by 62.5% in the DRSP group and 58.8% in the CPA group. Both preparations also reduced sebum production and hair growth on the upper lip and chin. There was a 3-fold increase in the levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in both treatment groups, and levels of androgens and luteinizing hormone (LH) decreased. The study concluded that the contraceptive containing DRSP was at least as effective as the one containing CPA for treating mild-to-moderate acne.