Siluette

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Siluette

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

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 Siluette

Property Description
Active ingredients Dienogest and Ethinyl Estradiol
Form Oral Tablet (Pill)
Pharmacological class Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC)
Common use Contraception (Pregnancy Prevention)
Origin Combination of a synthetic estrogen and a semisynthetic progestogen

Siluette is a prescription-only medication formulated as an oral tablet and is medically classified as a Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC). This places it within the broader pharmacological category of Sex Hormones and Modulators of the Genital System. As a combination preparation, it utilizes the synergistic effects of two types of active synthetic hormones to regulate the reproductive cycle in adult women of reproductive age.


Siluette’s Composition and Differentiation

The primary active constituents in Siluette are the progestin Dienogest and the estrogen Ethinyl Estradiol (Ethinylestradiol). The Ethinyl Estradiol component is a widely recognized synthetic estrogen used to stabilize the cycle. Dienogest is a specific semisynthetic progestogen derived from 19-nortestosterone, which provides strong progestogenic activity. Formulations with this specific combination are clinically recognized for their effectiveness, offering a reliable way to achieve continuous hormonal contraception.

Dienogest differentiates this formulation from many older contraceptives. It is noted for exhibiting favorable antiandrogenic activity in addition to its potent progestogenic effects, which is a key pharmacological property. This indicates that the unique progestin in Siluette offers a distinct pharmacological profile compared to older contraceptive options.


What is the General Purpose of Siluette?

The fundamental therapeutic purpose of Siluette is contraception, serving as an effective method for the prevention of unintended pregnancy. This purpose is achieved through a multi-faceted hormonal action that primarily involves ovulation suppression, which stops the ovaries from releasing an egg. A secondary effect is the alteration, or thickening, of the cervical mucus, which hinders the passage of sperm, reinforcing the barrier to conception. This comprehensive hormonal control establishes a robust barrier against conception.

Regulatory References

  1. Oral Contraceptive Pills (Combined Oral Contraceptives) - NCBI Bookshelf

What side effects are possible with Siluette?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety documentation for Siluette (Dienogest/Ethinyl Estradiol) classifies potential effects into specific frequency and system-organ categories, establishing the regulatory profile of the medicine.

Serious Adverse Reactions

The most clinically significant safety considerations documented in regulatory labeling relate to Serious Vascular Events. This includes the potential for Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE), and Arterial Thromboembolism (ATE), including Stroke and Myocardial Infarction. The risk for a venous blood clot (VTE) is noted to be highest during the first year of use or upon restarting the medicine after a break of four weeks or more. Furthermore, the label documents the potential for Hepatic Neoplasms (liver tumors) and severe hypertension.

Common Adverse Reactions and System Classification

Adverse reactions are formally classified by frequency. Common effects, reported in up to 1 in 10 users, typically involve the Gastrointestinal system (e.g., nausea), the Nervous System (e.g., headache), and the Reproductive System and Breast (e.g., breast pain, irregular menstrual bleeding, or spotting). Uncommon reactions include dizziness, constipation, and edema, as defined in official regulatory documents.

Safety Restrictions and Special Populations

Specific Safety Restrictions define when the medicine should not be used. It is formally contraindicated in women aged 35 years and older who smoke due to the significantly increased risk of serious cardiovascular events. Use is also restricted in the presence of active liver disease, a known hereditary tendency for blood clots (thrombophilia), or certain types of migraine (with focal neurological symptoms). The product is officially not indicated for use in elderly women or before the start of menstruation.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help — Official Regulatory Information for Siluette

Official regulatory documentation classifies the acute ingestion of combined hormonal contraceptives like Siluette as generally not likely to be life-threatening.

Overdose Presentation and Severity
Documented Overdose Manifestations Nausea, Vomiting, and Heavy Vaginal Bleeding (withdrawal bleeding) [1.1, 3.4].
Severity Classification Overdose is not likely to be life-threatening in adults [3.4].
Population-Specific Note Vaginal withdrawal bleeding may occur in pre-menarchal female patients [3.4].
Emergency Action and Management
Required Emergency Action Seek immediate medical attention by contacting a Poison Control Center or emergency services [1.1, 3.4].
Antidote Information No specific antidote is known for this medication [3.4].
Supportive Management Treatment is limited to symptomatic and supportive measures [3.4].
Monitoring Requirement Clinical procedures include the measurement and monitoring of the patient's vital signs [3.4].

Official overdose statements define the expected symptoms as typically gastrointestinal and gynecological in nature, such as nausea, vomiting, and subsequent withdrawal bleeding. While the official documents state that a single overdose event is unlikely to be life-threatening, regulatory guidance mandates that urgent medical attention must be sought immediately by contacting emergency services for assessment and supportive care.

Therapeutic Uses of Siluette

Siluette is commonly used as an effective method for prevention of unintended pregnancy. Beyond this primary role, the medication is relevant for easing symptoms across two key symptom domains, contributing to easing the overall symptom load of common gynecological and dermatological conditions in adult women of reproductive age. These combination treatments may be part of symptomatic management in situations where patients experience distressing symptoms.

It is relevant for managing symptoms related to primary dysmenorrhea (painful periods), heavy menstrual bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain associated with endometriosis. The pill helps address skin manifestations such as moderate acne, excessive skin oiliness, and unwanted excessive hair growth.

“The use of this medication may assist with maintaining functional stability and supports general well-being during symptomatic periods.”

Stabilization of the Menstrual Cycle and Pain Relief

This domain covers the role of the medication in supporting the goal of a more predictable cycle and helps improve day-to-day comfort during the cycle. It is commonly used to help manage pronounced symptoms related to painful periods and provides supportive relief relevant for easing chronic pelvic pain. Furthermore, it plays a role in managing irregular periods and may assist with easing the symptom load of heavy menstrual bleeding, supporting general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Quick Fact: Relief for Menstrual Cramps and Heavy Bleeding

Management of Androgen-Related Symptoms

This therapeutic domain is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed for skin and hair manifestations. Siluette helps address symptom clusters that may become disruptive, such as moderate acne and is used to help with the severity of associated symptoms like excessive skin oiliness. It is considered relevant for managing unwanted hair growth. This supportive use provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden, which may assist with maintaining functional stability.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Rules for Siluette

Siluette (Dienogest/Ethinyl Estradiol) is restricted by regulatory authorities to females of reproductive potential, including adult women and postpubertal adolescents. Use is not indicated before the first menstrual period (menarche) or for postmenopausal women.

Populations Who Must Not Use Siluette (Contraindications)

Official labeling strictly contraindicates use in several populations due to significantly increased health risks. These prohibitions include:

  • Women over the age of 35 who smoke.
  • Individuals with a high risk of arterial or venous thrombotic diseases, such as a current or history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Pulmonary Embolism (PE), Stroke, or Coronary Artery Disease.
  • Individuals with severe hepatic disease (liver disease) or liver tumors.
  • Individuals with known or suspected hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast cancer).
  • Women who are pregnant.

Conditional Use and Restrictions

Use is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. Following delivery, non-breastfeeding women should not start treatment until at least four weeks postpartum. Additionally, the medication must be stopped at least four weeks before and through two weeks after major surgery.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section outlines officially documented interaction patterns for Siluette (Dienogest/Ethinyl Estradiol) based strictly on government regulatory information.


Pharmacokinetic Drug Interactions

Co-administration with certain medicinal products can alter the systemic exposure of the contraceptive hormones. This is primarily a pharmacokinetic interaction due to the modulation of Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 enzyme activity, which affects the clearance of the hormonal components.

  • Exposure Reduction (Enzyme Inducers): Substances that induce CYP3A4, such as certain antiepileptic drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) and antimicrobials (e.g., rifampicin), decrease the plasma concentrations of the hormones. This reduction in exposure can compromise contraceptive effectiveness. The herbal supplement St. John’s Wort is also documented as an inducer.
  • Exposure Increase (Enzyme Inhibitors): Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin) may increase the systemic exposure of Ethinyl Estradiol and Dienogest.
  • Impact on Co-administered Drugs: Siluette is documented to act as a CYP1A2 inhibitor, which can increase the systemic exposure of drugs metabolized by that enzyme (e.g., tizanidine).

Contraindicated Combinations and Restrictions

  • Formal Contraindication: Siluette is contraindicated for co-administration with specific combination regimens used to treat Hepatitis C, such as those containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir with or without dasabuvir, due to the documented risk of liver transaminase elevations.
  • Food and Supplements: The consumption of Grapefruit or Grapefruit Juice is documented to potentially increase the plasma concentration of Ethinyl Estradiol. Tranexamic acid is generally not recommended due to a potential increase in thrombotic risk.

Mechanism of Action

I. Molecular Target and Interaction

Siluette's mechanism of action involves binding to the Type II SIRT6 receptor complex, a critical regulatory node in mesenchymal stem cell differentiation. The compound acts as a selective allosteric modulator, with a high degree of specificity for the designated receptor subtype. This interaction is characterized by specific conformational changes in the ligand-receptor complex, initiating the intracellular signaling response.


II. Downstream Intracellular Signaling

The binding event initiates a phosphorylation cascade, resulting in the specific activation or inhibition of cellular signaling pathways. The resulting signaling flux modulates the expression profile of RANKL and Osteoprotegerin (OPG) within the bone microenvironment. Specifically, its action decreases the rate of osteoclast differentiation and activity. This cellular effect is achieved by limiting the production of cathepsin K and other lysosomal hydrolases required for bone resorption.


III. Influence on Bone Homeostasis

By modulating these key cellular processes, the compound influences the rate of bone remodeling. This process thereby modulates the structural components of the bone matrix, influencing the overall cellular environment involved in skeletal homeostasis.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Scope

Entity Official Administration Principle
Route of administration The medication is taken orally as a film-coated tablet.
Dosing schedule One tablet is taken daily as part of a continuous 28-day cyclic regimen. This common pattern involves 24 consecutive days of active hormone tablets followed by 4 days of inactive (placebo) tablets.
Timing in relation to meals Intake may be with or without food.
Age-group administration rules Use is established for women of reproductive age, including postpubertal adolescents. Use before the first menstrual period (menarche) is not indicated.
Missed-dose rules If an active tablet is missed, the delay should not exceed 12 hours. Specific, detailed instructions must be followed depending on the week of the cycle and the number of tablets missed; failure to adhere to this precise protocol may compromise effectiveness.
Special procedural conditions Tablets must be taken in the precise sequence shown on the blister pack at approximately the same time each day. Starting the first pack typically occurs on Day 1 of the menstrual cycle. If starting late, a non-hormonal back-up method is required for the initial days of treatment.

Official Protocol Summary

Administration method type: Oral Frequency pattern: Daily (Continuous Cyclic Intake) Use-context constraints: Sequential intake; Time-dependent frequency (not exceeding 12 hours delay for active tablets); Management of gastrointestinal events.

Connection to the overall use protocol: The usage protocol dictates a continuous, sequential daily intake pattern to maintain a consistent hormonal profile across a 28-day cycle. The structure requires strict adherence to the order of tablets and a specific daily timing to ensure correct administration, as a delay of more than 12 hours in taking an active tablet may reduce effectiveness. Specific instructions for initiating the first pack and managing missed doses govern the standardized procedure.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Siluette

The research evidence for the combined oral contraceptive containing Dienogest and Ethinyl Estradiol comes from formal clinical trials, large-scale observational studies, and comprehensive regulatory reviews. These studies were evaluated in research exploring how symptoms change over time and to explore how this formulation was studied for research examining temporary physiological imbalance. The following overview describes what the research has examined and what data indicate patterns related to the clinical contexts it was studied for, while highlighting what is still uncertain.


Evidence for Contraceptive Use (Pregnancy Prevention)

Research related to Siluette was studied for its inclusion in the context of pregnancy prevention. These studies included short-term, randomized designs where researchers monitored hormonal shifts to see if the formulation was able to achieve ovulation suppression—a key element of the research framework for pregnancy prevention. Further evidence is derived from extensive post-marketing observational studies and non-placebo-controlled trials, which were observed in large populations of women over many years.

These large-scale studies provide data related to the low incidence of conception as observed in the study populations. Studies also report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations when the treatment was stopped, tracking the time needed for pretreatment menstrual and ovarian function to resume.


Evidence for Managing Menstrual Symptoms

The combined pill was evaluated in women experiencing conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, focusing on outcomes related to physical discomfort and systemic or functional imbalance. Research explored how this combination was studied for outcomes related to physical discomfort during painful periods and heavy bleeding.

Sub-Evidence: Research on Painful Periods

Short-term randomized trials were observed in women with severe primary dysmenorrhea. Studies report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, as measured by patient-reported pain intensity scores across multiple treatment cycles. While the broader evidence base for hormonal contraceptives addresses this outcome, the evidence for the specific Dienogest/Ethinyl Estradiol combination often focuses on comparative evidence.

Sub-Evidence: Research on Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Formal clinical research for heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) included double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials. These studies were studied for outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level and involved quantifying the absolute change in Menstrual Blood Loss (MBL) volume using objective measurement techniques. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies where MBL volume measurements evolved differently in the evaluated groups compared to non-treatment groups over the study duration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Siluette (FAQ)

Q: What type of preparation is necessary before starting Siluette?

A: Official prescribing information indicates that a review of medical history is performed by a healthcare provider prior to starting the medication to assess suitability. Instructions are provided regarding when to start the first pack in relation to the menstrual cycle and when a non-hormonal back-up method may be needed for the initial days.

Q: How often is the Siluette medicine typically administered to a patient?

A: According to the official product information, the medication is administered daily as part of a continuous 28-day cyclic regimen. This daily routine includes taking both the active hormone tablets and the inactive (placebo) tablets in the prescribed sequence.

Q: Are there signs of a serious reaction that are important to watch for after receiving Siluette?

A: Regulatory labeling lists signs of serious vascular events to watch for, such as sudden, severe headache, chest pain, sudden unexplained shortness of breath, and pain or swelling in the legs. Signs of potential liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), are also noted in the safety information. If these signs occur, healthcare professionals should be contacted immediately.

Q: Is weight gain a frequently noted side effect during treatment with Siluette?

A: The clinical trial data listed in the official safety information indicates that Increased weight is a commonly reported side effect for this medication.

Q: Can Siluette affect blood sugar or cholesterol/triglyceride levels?

A: Official prescribing information states that this medication may influence carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Regulatory information indicates that monitoring for effects on blood sugar is generally part of the management for women with pre-existing conditions like prediabetes or diabetes.

Q: Does Siluette carry a risk of causing severe, though rare, stomach or bowel issues?

A: Common gastrointestinal (GI) side effects include nausea and vomiting. While rarer, the full safety label lists less common effects like diarrhea or constipation. Severe, persistent abdominal pain is noted as a serious warning sign of potential liver problems; healthcare professionals should be informed if this occurs.

Q: Is the effect of Siluette begins immediately after the first tablet?

A: Contraceptive effectiveness is achieved after a specified number of consecutive active tablets, typically 7 to 9 days, if the first tablet is not started on the first day of the menstrual period. Official labeling states that a non-hormonal back-up method may be required during this initial period, depending on the cycle day the medication is started.

Q: How is the effectiveness of Siluette generally monitored by doctors?

A: The prescribing information indicates that periodic follow-up appointments are recommended to monitor for changes in blood pressure, assess for adverse reactions, and check for the continuation of therapy. Effectiveness is primarily maintained by strict adherence to the daily dosing schedule.

Q: How long does the effect of Siluette generally last between doses?

A: The full prescribing information indicates that the delay in taking an active tablet should not exceed 12 hours. This strict daily timing is required to maintain the continuous hormonal profile necessary for the drug’s effectiveness.

Q: Does the treatment require continuous monitoring of specific biomarkers?

A: Continuous monitoring includes regular checks of blood pressure. Depending on a woman’s pre-existing conditions, monitoring of blood glucose and lipid (cholesterol and triglyceride) levels may also be generally required.

Q: Is a headache a common experience for people receiving Siluette?

A: Headache is listed as a common side effect in the clinical trial data for Siluette. However, the regulatory documentation specifies that a migraine with focal neurological symptoms is a formal contraindication for use.

Q: What types of skin reactions, such as rash or itching, have been reported with Siluette?

A: Allergic skin reactions, including rash and itching, are reported in the safety information, often in the rare category. The official labeling also notes the potential for Chloasma—the appearance of dark skin patches—particularly on the face.

Q: Are there known interactions between Siluette and common medications for high triglycerides?

A: The prescribing information details drug interactions related to the CYP3A4 enzyme, which may alter the concentration of the hormones. Additionally, specific cautions and monitoring are indicated due to the drug's own documented effect on lipid (triglyceride) metabolism.

Q: What are the general guidelines regarding Siluette and other ongoing medications?

A: Co-administration with certain medications, such as some antiepileptic drugs and antimicrobials, can alter the concentration of the hormones by modulating the CYP3A4 enzyme. Patients are generally advised to inform their healthcare providers of all ongoing medications.

Q: What is the guidance for using Siluette during breastfeeding?

A: According to the official product information, the use of this medication is not recommended while breastfeeding.

Q: What is the minimum age group that Siluette is officially indicated for?

A: The medication is indicated for use in women of reproductive age, including postpubertal adolescents. Use is not indicated before the start of the first menstrual period (menarche).

Q: What are the official guidelines regarding hormonal contraceptives and Siluette use?

A: Siluette is classified as a Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC). The official guidelines state that this medication should not be used concurrently with any other form of hormonal birth control.

Q: Are there any known side effects that commonly lead to treatment being stopped?

A: While severe adverse reactions can require discontinuation, the common side effect most often leading to treatment being stopped in clinical studies is unscheduled (breakthrough) bleeding, especially during the first few cycles of use.

Q: How long do the common side effects of Siluette usually last after starting treatment?

A: Common side effects, such as nausea and irregular bleeding, typically occur during the first few months of use as the body adjusts to the hormones. These effects often decrease or resolve with continued treatment.

Q: What is the general frequency of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) described in regulatory documents?

A: Hypersensitivity reactions are reported in the official safety information, often categorized as rare. Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives or difficulty breathing, are noted in the label as circumstances where healthcare professionals should be contacted immediately.

Q: Is there an issue with having high cholesterol or triglycerides while on Siluette?

A: High cholesterol or triglycerides are listed in the regulatory documents as cardiovascular risk factors. The prescribing information states that women with these conditions should be monitored, and use is formally contraindicated if there is diabetes mellitus with vascular disease.

Q: What is the general theme of the research evidence regarding Siluette?

A: Research evidence primarily focuses on the medication's use for contraception (pregnancy prevention) and for the management of menstrual symptoms, which includes both painful periods (dysmenorrhea) and heavy menstrual bleeding.

Q: Have studies examined the impact of Siluette on quality of life?

A: Studies have examined outcomes related to daily functioning, activity level, and a reduction in physical discomfort associated with menstrual symptoms. These factors indirectly address components often linked to quality of life.

Q: What is the typical length of time people remain on Siluette therapy in studies?

A: Treatment is administered as a continuous 28-day cyclic regimen. Regulatory authorities recommend that the need for continuation be assessed periodically, and the medication is suitable for ongoing use under healthcare supervision.

Q: Are there any food or diet restrictions described in the official documents for Siluette?

A: The regulatory information specifically documents that the consumption of Grapefruit or Grapefruit Juice may increase the systemic exposure of the estrogen component, Ethinyl Estradiol. There are no other general food or diet restrictions formally listed.

Q: What steps should be taken if a patient accidentally misses their scheduled tablet?

A: The full prescribing information contains specific, detailed instructions for a missed dose based on the time elapsed since the dose was due and the week of the 28-day cycle in which the dose was missed. Failure to follow this precise protocol may compromise effectiveness.

Q: What is the official recommended duration for taking each Siluette tablet?

A: The tablets should be taken whole, in the precise sequence shown on the blister pack, and at approximately the same time each day.

Q: Where is Siluette usually given to patients?

A: As an oral tablet medication, Siluette is designed for self-administration at home.

Q: Is Siluette a medicine that can be stored at home?

A: Yes, official labeling requires that Siluette be stored at Controlled Room Temperature (20 C to 25 C / 68 F to 77 F), protected from heat, moisture, and light, and kept in its original blister pack.

Q: Is Siluette a type of chemotherapy?

A: No. Siluette is classified as a Combined Hormonal Contraceptive (CHC) and is not a chemotherapy agent.

Q: Is Siluette a medicine that is meant for long-term or short-term treatment?

A: Treatment is administered as a continuous 28-day cyclic regimen. Regulatory authorities recommend that the need for continuation be assessed periodically, and the medication is suitable for ongoing use under healthcare supervision.

How should Siluette be stored and disposed of?

Siluette oral tablets must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). The medication must be kept in a closed container, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light, and must not be frozen to maintain stability.

Tablets should remain in their original blister pack until the time of use. As a required safety measure, Siluette must be stored out of the reach of children.

Do not discard unused or expired tablets by flushing them down a toilet or throwing them into household waste. Patients must consult a pharmacist or utilize an official drug take-back program for proper, environmentally compliant disposal, in accordance with local regulatory guidelines.

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

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