Cyproterone acetate

Anti-androgen hormone
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Cyproterone acetate is a anti-androgen hormone found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Krimson 35. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: cyproterone

What it is used for

With ethinylestradiol, treats acne and excess hair growth in women (for example in PCOS).

How it works

An anti-androgen combined with ethinylestradiol for severe acne and excess hair in women (including PCOS); higher doses for prostate cancer.

How to take it

One tablet a day as directed; it also works as contraception.

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness
  • Headache
  • Mood changes

Get medical help straight away if

  • Signs of a clot (leg pain, chest pain, breathlessness)
  • Yellow skin
  • Low mood

Be careful

Raises the risk of blood clots; also acts as contraception.

Other medicines and interactions

Same interactions as combined pills. Stop once acne is controlled, as clot risk is higher than with standard pills.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Must not be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Cyproterone acetate (1)

Krimson 35

Common questions

What is Cyproterone acetate used for?

With ethinylestradiol, treats acne and excess hair growth in women (for example in PCOS).

How does Cyproterone acetate work?

An anti-androgen combined with ethinylestradiol for severe acne and excess hair in women (including PCOS); higher doses for prostate cancer.

How should I take Cyproterone acetate?

One tablet a day as directed; it also works as contraception.

What are the side effects of Cyproterone acetate?

Common: Nausea, breast tenderness, headache, mood changes. Get help straight away for: Signs of a clot (leg pain, chest pain, breathlessness), yellow skin, low mood.

Does Cyproterone acetate interact with other medicines?

Same interactions as combined pills. Stop once acne is controlled, as clot risk is higher than with standard pills.

Is Cyproterone acetate safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Must not be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Does Cyproterone acetate need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Cyproterone acetate?

Krimson 35.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.