Yaz (Drospirenone 3mg / Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg)
Yaz is the brand of a combined oral contraceptive containing drospirenone 3mg and ethinylestradiol 0.02mg in a 24/4 regimen. It is widely used for contraception, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and moderate acne in women requesting contraception.
- Active ingredients
- Drospirenone
- Manufacturer
- Bayer
- Dosage forms
- tablet
- Available dosages
- 3mg/0.02mg
- Category
- Hormones and Birth Control
What is it?
Yaz is the brand of the low-dose combined oral contraceptive containing drospirenone 3mg with ethinylestradiol 0.02mg, marketed by Bayer since 2006. It uses a 24/4 regimen — 24 active hormone tablets followed by 4 placebo tablets — which produces a shorter pill-free interval than the older 21/7 regimens (such as Yasmin). Authorised generics are available in most regulated markets.
Active ingredients
Each Yaz active tablet contains drospirenone 3mg and ethinylestradiol 0.02mg. Drospirenone is a fourth-generation progestogen with anti-mineralocorticoid and anti-androgen activity, structurally derived from spironolactone. Ethinylestradiol provides the estrogen component for cycle control. The 0.02mg ethinylestradiol dose is at the lower end of combined oral contraceptive estrogen content.
Forms and dosages
Yaz is supplied as a 28-tablet blister pack: 24 light pink active tablets containing drospirenone/ethinylestradiol, followed by 4 white placebo tablets. One tablet is taken at the same time daily, starting on day 1 of the menstrual cycle (or the first Sunday after) and continued sequentially. After completing the 28-day pack, a new pack starts the next day with no break.
Indications
Yaz is approved for contraception in adult women requesting an oral contraceptive, treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and treatment of moderate acne in women aged ≥14 who are also requesting contraception. According to clinical guidelines, drospirenone-containing pills are often preferred when premenstrual symptoms or hormonal acne are part of the picture, due to the anti-androgen and anti-mineralocorticoid profile.
How it works
Yaz prevents pregnancy through three mechanisms: ovulation suppression (the dominant effect), thickening of cervical mucus to impede sperm transit, and changes in endometrial receptivity. The drospirenone component contributes anti-androgen action that reduces sebum production and acne, and anti-mineralocorticoid action that reduces water retention compared with older progestogens. The 24/4 regimen reduces hormonal fluctuations that can drive premenstrual symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
How is Yaz different from Yasmin? ▾
Both contain drospirenone with ethinylestradiol, but Yaz uses a 24/4 regimen with 0.02mg ethinylestradiol, while Yasmin uses a 21/7 regimen with 0.03mg ethinylestradiol. Yaz has the shorter pill-free interval and lower estrogen exposure, and is more commonly chosen for premenstrual symptoms or estrogen-related side effects.
Does Yaz cause more blood clots than other pills? ▾
Some evidence suggests a slightly higher venous thromboembolism risk with drospirenone-containing combined pills than with levonorgestrel-containing pills. Absolute risk remains low for most women. According to current contraception guidelines, the small increment matters most for women with prior thrombosis, smoking after 35, or other clotting risk factors.
Can Yaz help with acne? ▾
Yes — Yaz is approved for moderate acne in women aged ≥14 who also want contraception. The drospirenone component has anti-androgen activity that reduces sebum production and the hormonal driver of acne. Improvement typically appears over 3–6 months. Pure dermatological alternatives exist for women not seeking contraception.
What if I miss a Yaz pill? ▾
If less than 24 hours late, take the missed tablet as soon as remembered and the next tablet at the usual time. If more than 24 hours late or two or more tablets missed, take the most recent missed tablet, use additional contraception (condoms) for 7 days, and follow the full leaflet instructions. If unprotected intercourse occurred, emergency contraception may be needed.
Will Yaz make me retain water like other pills? ▾
Drospirenone has anti-mineralocorticoid activity (similar to spironolactone) that reduces water retention compared with older progestogens. Many women find Yaz produces less bloating and breast tenderness than levonorgestrel-containing pills. Individual response varies.
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The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.