Drospirenone

Uses of Drospirenone

Drospirenone is commonly used as a method of contraception

How Drospirenone Works

Drospirenone is an analogue of spironolactone with antimineralocorticoid and antiandrogenic activity. It inhibits ovulation via a negative feedback mechanism on the hypothalamus. It also makes some changes in the cervical mucus by rendering it unfavourable for sperm penetration.

Side Effects of Drospirenone

Inflammatory bowel disease, Bleeding irregularities, Fatigue, Mood swings, Nausea and vomiting, Vaginal discharge, Menstrual disorders, Decreased libido, Pancreatitis

Warnings

Kidney High Risk

The use of Drospirenone is not recommended in patients with severe kidney disease. Please consult your doctor for more details

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Drospirenone. Taking Drospirenone with alcohol may worsen the side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Furthermore, it also increases the risk of pancreatitis.

Pregnancy Maybe Safe

Drospirenone may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have not shown any adverse reactions on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. Please consult your doctor.

Driving Generally Safe

Drospirenone usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Limited Data

The use of Drospirenone is contraindicated in patients with hepatic impairment. Please consult your doctor for more details.

Lactation Limited Data

Drospirenone is probably unsafe to use during lactation. Limited human data suggests that Drospirenone is excreted into breast milk and there are plausible adverse reactions on the nursing infants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).