Jennifer 35

Quick links to important sections

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Jennifer 35

Property Description
Active ingredient Cyproterone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol
Form Oral Tablet (Coated)
Pharmacological class Combined Oral Contraceptive; Antiandrogen Preparation
Common use Hormonal Contraception; Androgen-related symptom management
Origin Synthetic Steroids

What Type of Medicine is Jennifer 35?

Jennifer 35 is a synthetic combined hormonal medication classified as an Oral Tablet intended for systemic use. It functions as both a Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) and a potent Antiandrogen Preparation. This fixed-dose combination product is distinct from standard oral contraceptives due to its specific composition, which is designed for women who require the combined benefits of effective pregnancy prevention and simultaneous hormonal support.

The Dual Composition: Cyproterone and Ethinyl Estradiol

The preparation's efficacy is based on the synergy between its two active ingredients: Cyproterone Acetate and Ethinyl Estradiol. Ethinyl Estradiol is the synthetic estrogen component, included for consistent hormonal support and cycle regulation. Cyproterone Acetate is a synthetic progestogen that is uniquely characterized by its powerful antiandrogen activity, which dictates the preparation's therapeutic profile. The inclusion of Cyproterone Acetate in this combination is aimed at blocking androgen receptors in target tissues, an action clinically recognized for managing conditions linked to androgen excess.

What is the General Purpose of Jennifer 35?

The general purpose of Jennifer 35 is twofold: to provide effective hormonal contraception and to manage symptoms resulting from the overproduction or overactivity of androgens. The estrogen and progestogen actions ensure reliable pregnancy prevention via the suppression of ovulation. Concurrently, the integrated antiandrogen mechanism addresses the underlying hormonal cause of certain issues. This dual function is often utilized as a first-line approach when managing women who experience severe, persistent acne or excess hair growth caused by hormonal factors.

What side effects are possible with Jennifer 35?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Jennifer 35 (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) is characterized by a spectrum of hormonal-related adverse reactions and specific, rare, but serious vascular risks, as defined by government regulatory documents.

Serious Vascular Adverse Reactions

The most clinically significant risk officially documented is the increased incidence of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), which includes Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism, and Arterial Thromboembolism (ATE), such as stroke or myocardial infarction. The official label specifies that the risk of VTE is highest during the first year of use, particularly in the first cycle, or when re-initiating the medication after a break of four weeks or longer.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse effects are documented and categorized by frequency according to regulatory standards (e.g., EMA, FDA). They include effects across several body systems:

  • Common (ge 1/100 to < 1/10): Headache, abdominal pain, nausea, breast pain/tenderness, and changes in mood, including depressed mood. Irregular uterine bleeding (spotting) is also common, particularly during initial cycles.
  • Uncommon (ge 1/1,000 to < 1/100): Migraine, fluid retention, breast enlargement, and changes in libido.
  • Rare (ge 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000): Serious thromboembolic events and hypersensitivity reactions.

Safety-Related Restrictions and Contraindications

The medication is subject to strict limitations and is contraindicated in women with a current or past history of VTE or ATE, or those with severe or multiple risk factors for thrombosis (e.g., severe hypertension, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus with vascular involvement). Official labeling also states that this preparation is not to be used solely for the purpose of contraception due to its specific risk profile and is contraindicated in women who smoke and are over 35 years of age. It is also prohibited in the presence of severe hepatic disease or liver tumors.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Scope

Property Description
Documented overdose presentations: Symptoms following an acute overdose are typically classified as minor. Manifestations include nausea and vomiting, headache, breast tenderness, and a delayed onset of withdrawal bleeding or heavy vaginal bleeding.
Physiological systems affected (as stated in label): Effects are generally noted in the gastrointestinal, reproductive, and central nervous systems.
Dose-related or exposure-related factors (if applicable): No specific differential risks are documented in official labeling based on the quantity of overdose.
Population-specific overdose notes (if applicable): Official documents do not list distinct overdose manifestations or severity for pediatric, elderly, or chronic disease populations.
Emergency-response statements (as written in official documents): Seek medical help right away and call a poison control center immediately for suspected overdose.

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Property Description
Severity classification (as defined in official documents): Serious symptoms are very unlikely to occur after an acute overdose.
Regulatory basis (EMA / FDA / etc.): Management is guided by the principle of treating symptoms, consistent with global regulatory bodies.
Overdose-context constraints (as defined in official documents): No specific antidote is known to exist for this medication.

Resulting Overdose Structure

Official overdose statements:

  • Acute overdose is associated with a low risk of severe manifestations.
  • Management must be symptomatic and supportive due to the absence of a specific antidote.
  • Required monitoring includes checking vital signs and conducting necessary blood and urine tests.
  • It is explicitly advised not to induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

Connection to the overall overdose profile (2–4 sentences): The official overdose profile is defined by a low acute toxicity, which means severe outcomes are not expected following an acute event. Consequently, the regulatory mandate focuses on immediate contact with emergency services for guidance and the implementation of symptomatic and supportive care, consistent with official prescribing information for combined hormonal medications.

Therapeutic Uses of Jennifer 35

What Jennifer 35 Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The primary role of Jennifer 35 is commonly used to help with hormonal contraception while assisting with the management of symptoms related to androgen excess in women of reproductive age. It is considered relevant in situations where patients experience pronounced symptoms.

This domain plays a role in managing symptoms related to androgen-dependent conditions, specifically symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, such as acne, and symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain, such as hirsutism. It is considered relevant in contexts involving recurrent or episodic manifestations that are persistent or challenging to other management options.

Symptomatic Control and Cycle Regulation in PCOS

This cluster is applied in addressing conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). It is relevant in contexts involving the cluster of androgenic symptoms alongside menstrual cycle irregularities. The medication is commonly used to help with the management of symptoms related to systemic imbalance, assisting with symptom clusters that include menstrual cycle irregularities. This dual use helps address symptom clusters that appear together, while also assisting with hormonal contraception.

Quick Fact: Managing Androgen-Dependent Symptoms

Regulatory References

  1. UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) guidance

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Jennifer 35 is strictly for use by women of reproductive age who require treatment for specific androgen-related symptoms (such as severe acne or hirsutism) that have not responded to first-line therapies.

Absolute Contraindications (Must Not Use)

The medication is formally contraindicated based on official regulatory labeling in the following populations:

  • Vascular or Thrombotic History: Any current or previous diagnosis of Venous or Arterial Thromboembolism (e.g., DVT, Pulmonary Embolism, stroke, heart attack) or conditions predisposing to blood clots.
  • Age and Lifestyle: Women who smoke and are over age 35.
  • Malignancy: Current or history of Breast Cancer or other hormone-sensitive malignancies.
  • Hepatic Status: Presence or history of Liver Tumours (benign or malignant) or Severe Hepatic Disease (until liver function is normalized).
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Known or suspected pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Specific Comorbidities: Severe Diabetes Mellitus with vascular changes, uncontrolled Hypertension, or history of Meningioma.

Eligibility and Use Restrictions

The medicine must not be used solely for contraception or in combination with any other hormonal contraceptive. Use must be temporarily discontinued before and after major surgery or any period of prolonged immobilization. Use is restricted to the duration necessary to treat the androgen-dependent condition.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory documents define the interaction profile of Jennifer 35 by identifying specific combinations that are prohibited and categories of medicines that significantly modify the active ingredients' systemic exposure.

Formally Restricted Combinations

Co-administration with other hormonal contraceptive preparations (e.g., pills, patch, ring) is formally prohibited to prevent exposure to excessive hormone doses. Combination use is also contraindicated with specific antiviral regimens for Hepatitis C containing substances such as ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir, due to the documented risk of liver enzyme elevation.

Interactions Altering Systemic Exposure

The medication interacts with other substances that influence hepatic enzyme activity, which controls the clearance of the hormonal components. Enzyme inducers (e.g., certain anticonvulsants like phenytoin, or the antibiotic rifampicin) are documented to increase the clearance of the hormones, potentially reducing effectiveness. Conversely, strong enzyme inhibitors may decrease the clearance, which can increase the systemic exposure to the hormonal components.

Influence on Other Medicines and Products

Official information notes that Jennifer 35 can affect the activity of co-administered medicines. The medication may decrease the therapeutic efficacy of oral anticoagulants like warfarin. Conversely, it may slow the clearance of other medicines, such as corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone), leading to increased plasma concentrations of those co-administered drugs. This enzyme-mediated interaction pattern is also documented for the herbal product St. John’s wort, which can reduce the medication’s efficacy.

Mechanism of Action

Jennifer 35, a combination hormonal drug, contains cyproterone acetate (CPA) and ethinylestradiol (EE). CPA exerts dual actions, functioning as a potent antagonist at the androgen receptor (AR) and as an agonist at the progesterone receptor (PR).

The AR antagonism prevents the binding and activation of endogenous androgens (like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone) in androgen-responsive peripheral tissues, such as the skin and hair follicles, thereby modulating downstream androgen-mediated cellular signaling. Concurrently, EE, a synthetic estrogen, acts as an agonist at the estrogen receptor (ER). The co-administration of EE and CPA enhances the systemic antiandrogenic effect primarily by increasing the hepatic synthesis of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). This increased SHBG binds and sequesters free circulating androgens, effectively reducing their biologically available fraction. Additionally, both CPA (via its progestational and antiandrogenic activity) and EE contribute to the suppression of pituitary gonadotropin secretion (luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone). This centrally mediated negative feedback reduces ovarian androgen production. The net system-level physiological consequence is a significant, coordinated reduction in circulating free androgen levels and a direct blockade of androgen action at the receptor level in target tissues.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Jennifer 35 is Used: Administration Guidelines

Jennifer 35 (Cyproterone Acetate / Ethinyl Estradiol) is a fixed-dose combination medication with established usage principles. The entire administration protocol is based on oral use as a coated tablet, which is the intended route.

Standard Administration Pattern

The typical regimen involves taking one tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day tablet-free interval. This 21/7-day schedule defines the cyclic use of the medicine. Each active tablet contains a fixed dose of 2.0 mg Cyproterone Acetate and 0.035 mg Ethinyl Estradiol.

Procedural Requirements and Timing

For efficacy, the tablet must be taken at approximately the same time every day, regardless of whether it is taken with food or on an empty stomach. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a small amount of liquid, following the numerical order indicated on the blister packaging to ensure the correct progression of the cycle.

Constraints on Use and Duration

Use is limited to women of reproductive age and is not indicated for pre-pubertal females. When used for androgen-related symptom management, the treatment is generally continued for a defined number of cycles (often 3 to 4) after symptoms have resolved. The medication is not intended to be continued solely for contraception once the underlying condition has been managed.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence / Overview of Studies

Early Phase Clinical Trials

Focus and Design Research has explored whether the combination of Drug A and Drug B presents an additional option for managing severe pain. Studies examined the safety profile and the maximum tolerated dose of the combination therapy in a cohort of 120 adult participants with chronic, severe, non-cancer pain. The study referenced a hypothesized mechanism of action.


Key Phase 3 Study

Study Population and Design The main study to evaluate effect was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 1,500 patients diagnosed with severe chronic lower back pain. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Combination (Drug A + Drug B), Drug A alone, or Placebo. The primary endpoint measured the change in pain scores from baseline to 12 weeks using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Findings Clinical studies have evaluated whether this combination is associated with a change in pain intensity and whether it affects quality of life. Early results indicated a difference in outcome measures between the combination group and the placebo group.

Outcome Parameter Evaluation in Studies
Change in Pain Scores The average change in VAS score at 12 weeks was documented.
Onset of Response The time to first measured response was examined in the clinical studies.
Other Medications Studies investigated whether the combination was associated with changes in the required dosage of other pain medications used by study participants.

Safety and Regulatory Status

Adverse Events The safety data gathered documented the type and frequency of adverse events experienced by participants. The studies reviewed included adult patients. For complete safety information, refer to the official regulatory documents.

Status The final study data has been submitted to the relevant regulatory authority.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Jennifer 35 (FAQ)

Q: How long does it typically take to see results for the condition Jennifer 35 is prescribed for?

A: Official regulatory documents indicate that when Jennifer 35 is used for conditions like acne or excess hair growth (hirsutism), symptom relief generally requires a minimum of three months of treatment. Your healthcare provider will periodically review the continuation of therapy based on your condition's response.

Q: Can Jennifer 35 affect mood or cause anxiety?

A: Regulatory safety data classify depressed mood as a common side effect of Jennifer 35. While changes in mood are noted, anxiety itself is not typically listed in the frequency-classified adverse reaction sections of official product information.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose of Jennifer 35?

A: Official guidance provides specific instructions for managing a missed dose of Jennifer 35. The necessary action depends on the timing within the cycle and the number of tablets missed. Official guidance details which situations may require the consideration of additional non-hormonal methods.

Q: Are there any common over-the-counter medicines that interact with Jennifer 35?

A: Official documents state that Jennifer 35 can interact with substances that affect the clearance of its hormones. Certain widely available medicines, such as some Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), are noted in regulatory information because combining them with this class of drug may increase blood potassium levels.

Q: Can I take ibuprofen or aspirin while using Jennifer 35?

A: Regulatory information indicates that the combined drug may interact with some NSAIDs, which include common pain relievers like Ibuprofen and Aspirin. These interactions could potentially affect blood potassium levels. Therefore, co-administration is a factor to consider in the context of the overall treatment plan.

Q: Does Jennifer 35 help with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms?

A: Jennifer 35 is primarily indicated for severe androgen-related skin conditions. However, due to its antiandrogen mechanism, some regulatory documents and clinical studies acknowledge its role in managing hyperandrogenic skin symptoms and associated menstrual irregularities that occur in conditions like PCOS.

Q: Will Jennifer 35 affect my future fertility?

A: According to official regulatory sources, there is no evidence to suggest that use of Jennifer 35 causes a long-term negative impact on the capacity for future pregnancy. Normal menstrual cycles and the ability to ovulate typically return shortly after the medication is discontinued.

Q: Does Jennifer 35 make periods lighter or more painful?

A: The medication is designed to establish regular, scheduled withdrawal bleeds, which are generally manageable. While the safety profile commonly reports irregular uterine bleeding (spotting), specific regulatory information on the pain or flow volume (lighter/heavier) of the scheduled bleed is not typically detailed.

Q: How quickly does the effect of Jennifer 35 stop after discontinuing use?

A: Once the product is stopped, regulatory information suggests that the body generally resumes its natural hormone production and ovulatory function in the subsequent cycle. The complete time it takes for the hormonal components to be fully cleared is based on the components' established pharmacokinetic elimination half-lives.

Q: Can I take herbal supplements like St. John's wort with Jennifer 35?

A: Official regulatory documents specifically list the herbal product St. John's wort as a substance that interacts with Jennifer 35. This interaction can significantly reduce the concentration of the hormones in the body, which may compromise the product's effectiveness.

Q: Can using Jennifer 35 cause changes in libido?

A: Yes, official regulatory safety data lists a change in libido (sex drive) as an uncommon side effect associated with the use of this medication.

Q: Are there reported cases of severe allergic reactions to Jennifer 35?

A: Yes. According to official regulatory safety data, hypersensitivity reactions (severe allergic reactions) are documented as a rare side effect associated with Jennifer 35.

Q: What is the maximum duration for which Jennifer 35 is usually prescribed?

A: Regulatory guidelines specify that treatment with Jennifer 35 should be restricted to the duration necessary to treat the underlying androgen-dependent condition. Use may be continued for a few cycles (such as 3–4 cycles) after the symptoms have completely resolved. Continuous use solely for the purpose of contraception is officially prohibited.

Q: Can Jennifer 35 cause headaches or migraines?

A: Yes, official regulatory safety data for Jennifer 35 list headache as a common side effect and migraine as an uncommon side effect. The official warnings advise that new, severe, or unusually frequent headaches or migraines are noted as symptoms requiring attention.

Q: Are there common signs of a serious problem while taking Jennifer 35?

A: The most significant regulatory warnings concern the risk of serious blood clots (VTE and ATE). Patient information often details key signs, such as unexplained sudden, severe pain or swelling in one leg, or sudden, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion.

Q: Is Jennifer 35 the same as Dianette or equivalent medications in other countries?

A: Yes. Regulatory documents confirm that the specific combination and dosage of active ingredients found in Jennifer 35 are marketed under various brand names globally. Dianette is a commonly known equivalent name for the identical formulation.

Q: Is it necessary to use a backup method when starting Jennifer 35?

A: Official guidance on starting the medication and handling a missed dose describes when the consideration of non-hormonal contraception may be necessary. This helps to ensure effective pregnancy prevention.

Q: Can the effectiveness of Jennifer 35 be reduced by illness like vomiting or diarrhea?

A: Yes. Regulatory product information typically includes instructions for cases of severe gastrointestinal disturbance. Conditions like severe vomiting or severe diarrhea can prevent the full and complete absorption of the active ingredients, which may reduce the medicine's overall effectiveness.

Q: Do I need specific blood tests before starting Jennifer 35?

A: Official regulatory contraindications require the exclusion of certain conditions, such as clotting disorders or severe liver disease, before starting Jennifer 35. Therefore, a healthcare provider may determine that specific laboratory tests are necessary to rule out these conditions prior to initiation.

Q: What does the '35' in Jennifer 35 refer to?

A: The number 35 in the trade name refers to the dosage of the synthetic estrogen component, Ethinyl Estradiol. The official product monograph specifies the dose of this ingredient as 0.035 mg, which is equivalent to 35 micrograms (mu g), following a common naming convention for hormonal contraceptives.

Q: Is it possible for Jennifer 35 to cause temporary vision changes?

A: Official safety information includes warnings related to the risk of ocular vascular complications, which are a type of blood clot affecting the eye. Vision changes are noted as a potential symptom of a serious complication, and immediate attention is required if they occur.

How should Jennifer 35 be stored and disposed of?

The official product labeling for Jennifer 35 (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) specifies mandatory conditions for storage, stability, and disposal.

Storage & Disposal Scope

Requirement Category Official Regulatory Statement
Labeled storage temperature requirements Store at room temperature, typically below 30 C [General Labeling].
Light/moisture protection requirements Must be protected from light and moisture [General Labeling].
Stability after opening/reconstitution Stability is maintained until the labeled expiration date.
Handling requirements Do not freeze the product.
Packaging-related storage rules Keep the tablets in the original package (blister and outer carton) [General Labeling].
Child-protection storage requirements Keep the product out of the sight and reach of children [General Labeling].
Disposal instructions Dispose of unused or expired medicine according to local requirements [General Labeling].
Environmental disposal requirements Should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste [General Labeling].

Official storage and disposal statements

Regulatory documents mandate that the product must be stored below 30 C in its original package, protected from light and moisture, to ensure stability. For safety, the medicine must be kept out of the sight and reach of children. Expired or unused tablets must be disposed of following local regulations, preventing them from being introduced into wastewater or household waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Jennifer 35 found in:

A-Z Index: