Hirsutism

1 tablet daily for 21 days, to be started on day 1 of menstrual cycle; subsequent courses repeated after a 7-day interval (during which withdrawal bleeding occurs), time to symptom remission, at least 3 months; review need for treatment regularly.

Apply to the affected area twice daily, at least eight hours apart.

Prescribing Notes:

Co-cyprindiol may be effective for moderately severe hirsutism. Treatment is required for 6–12 months before benefit is seen.
Co-cyprindiol should be stopped 3-4 months after the hirsutism has completely resolved. Courses may be repeated if there is a recurrence.
For further information on the safe prescribing of co-cyprindiol see the Contraception recommendations in the Obstetrics, gynaecology, and urinary-tract disorders chapter of the formulary.
Eflornithine is restricted to use in women for whom alternative drug therapy is ineffective, contraindicated or considered inappropriate. It should be discontinued if there is no improvement after 4 months of treatment.

History Notes

15/12/2021

East Region Formulary content agreed.

For dose see BNF for children.

Prescribing Notes:

Co-cyprindiol may be effective for moderately severe hirsutism. Treatment is required for 6-12 months before benefit is seen.
Co-cyprindiol should be stopped 3-4 months after the hirsutism has completely resolved. Courses may be repeated if there is a recurrence.
For further information on the safe prescribing of co-cyprindiol see the Contraception recommendations in the Obstetrics, gynaecology, and urinary-tract disorders chapter of the formulary.

History Notes

31/05/2024

East Region Formulary content agreed.