Systemic Therapies: Oral Contraceptive Pill

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COC), containing both estrogen and progestin, can be used for the treatment of acne vulgaris in females. Many types of oral contraceptive pills exist, some of which are specifically made for treatment of acne. Potential side effects are high blood pressure, headaches, weight gain, blood clots, abdominal pain, cramping, and nausea. They may not be safe for women with a history of blood clots or migraines, with a family history of breast cancer, or who smoke.