Ethinylestradiol
Ethinylestradiol is a synthetic oestrogen widely relied upon in hormonal medication, such as Mercilon and Diane 35. It is used primarily for contraception and managing acne. Twelve generic formulations are available, including varying combinations within the Women’s Health category, offering reliable hormonal therapy options.

Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets
Contraception
3/0.03mg
Drospirenone with ethinylestradiol as a film-coated tablet for contraception. Gonadotropin feedback suppresses ovulation and the mucus thickens.

Cyproterone Acetate and Ethinylestradiol Tablets
Severe Acne, Hirsutism, Androgenetic Alopecia
2/0.035mg
Cyproterone acetate with ethinylestradiol as a film-coated tablet, used for severe acne, hirsutism and androgenetic alopecia. An anti-androgen with an oestrogen.

Desogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets
Contraception
0.15/30mg/mcg
Desogestrel with ethinylestradiol tablets for contraception, working through feedback on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis to suppress ovulation.
Key points
- A synthetic oestrogen combined with a progestogen in contraceptive pills such as Mercilon, rather than used alone.
- Also treats acne and hirsutism by lowering androgen production, which can reduce excess oil and skin inflammation over time.
- Prevents pregnancy mainly by halting ovulation and increasing the thickness of cervical mucus, rather than through a single mechanism alone.
What is Ethinylestradiol?
Ethinylestradiol is a potent, man-made form of the hormone oestrogen. It is rarely used alone and is typically combined with progestogens to create oral contraceptives or therapies for hormonal imbalances. These combinations are designed to mimic natural hormonal cycles or suppress specific hormonal pathways, providing predictable outcomes for various reproductive and dermatological needs.
What Ethinylestradiol is used for
This ingredient is a cornerstone of Contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy. It is also effective in treating acne and managing symptoms associated with hirsutism or excess androgen production. Because of its ability to influence hormonal levels, it may also assist in addressing androgenetic alopecia in specific clinical scenarios.
How does Ethinylestradiol work?
Ethinylestradiol works by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to prevent fertilization. In the context of dermatological conditions like Acne, it lowers the production of androgens, which are hormones that can trigger excess oil production and skin inflammation. By stabilizing these hormonal fluctuations, it reduces the severity of skin concerns over time.
Ethinylestradiol brands and forms
Brands such as Mercilon, Marvelon, and Femilon remain widely available, often paired with progestogens to provide balanced treatment. You will find these as a Tablet or Film-coated tablet on this page, allowing for consistent daily dosing. Choosing between specific commercial brands often depends on the exact ratio of active ingredients needed for your medical goals.
Safety overview for Ethinylestradiol
What to check before using this medicine
Confirm that your health history does not include conditions worsened by oestrogen, such as history of blood clots or specific cardiovascular issues.
Possible reactions and tolerability
Some users may experience nausea, breast tenderness, or changes in mood when starting hormonal therapy. These effects often settle as your body adjusts to the hormonal intake.
Interactions and health factors
Certain medications, including some antibiotics and seizure treatments, may change how your body processes this hormone. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.
Further reading
What is ethinylestradiol used for?
Ethinylestradiol is used mainly for contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy. It is also used to treat acne and to manage symptoms linked to hirsutism or excess androgen production.
How does ethinylestradiol work?
Ethinylestradiol works by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus, which helps prevent fertilisation. For skin conditions such as acne, it lowers androgen production, which can reduce excess oil and inflammation over time.
How long does ethinylestradiol take to work?
Contraceptive protection typically begins after 7 days of correct use. The stated duration is 24 hours.
What are the side effects of ethinylestradiol?
Some people may get nausea, breast tenderness or changes in mood when starting hormonal therapy, and these often settle as the body adjusts. Headache, mood swings, weight changes, raised blood pressure and a lower sex drive have also been reported. More serious problems such as blood clots, stroke and heart attack require immediate medical attention.
Can ethinylestradiol be taken with other medicines?
Some medicines, including certain antibiotics and seizure treatments, may change how the body processes this hormone. St John's wort, rifampicin and carbamazepine are listed among the interactions. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before combining it with anything else.
Who should not take ethinylestradiol?
Ethinylestradiol should not be used by anyone with a history of thrombosis, severe liver impairment, uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes with blood vessel complications, or during pregnancy. A history of blood clots or certain heart and circulation problems also counts as a reason to avoid oestrogen. Discuss your health history with a doctor or pharmacist first.
In which products can I find ethinylestradiol?
Products containing ethinylestradiol include Yasmin, Diane 35 and Ovral. Compare forms, strengths and packs in the listings above.
What are other names for ethinylestradiol?
Besides the products listed here, ethinylestradiol is sold under brand names such as Eloine, Yaz, Dianette, Eugynon, Microgynon and Microgynon 30. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare.
Is ethinylestradiol available over the counter in Thailand?
Yes. Ethinylestradiol is sold over the counter, and Yasabai does not ask for a prescription to order it. We are an online store, not a dispensing pharmacy; we arrange your order and delivery on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver ethinylestradiol to Thailand?
Yes. Our pharmacy partners ship from India to Thailand and across Asia in discreet packaging. Standard Airmail takes up to 3 weeks; Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week.
How ordering works →Related articles

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