| Popis: |
After a brief historical overview of the development and application of gestagens in contraceptive pills and drugs for the treatment of menstrual disorders, the chemical structure of the gestagenic-based contraceptives currently being used is described. Possible methods of synthesis are described for the derivatives of estrane, androstane, and pregnane, which are represented by the contraceptives estradiol, testosterone, and progesterone, respectively. The mechanism of contraceptive action is also discussed in some detail, with particular emphasis on studies of the endometrium. Many of these studies are based on an examination of histological infrastructures. Experimental data are presented to prove that gestagens paralyze the peristalsis of the oviduct, thereby preventing migration of the ovum. Observations of women using hormonal contraceptives contributed to the use of these drugs for the treatment of certain menstrual disorders. The methods and gestagens for such treatments are selected on the basis of clinical studies and histological examinations of the endometrium. Finally, the side effects and complications of contraception and treatment with gestagens are discussed, using statistics collected by WHO. The adverse effects of gestagens appear to be negligible, as compared with their therapeutic value and the important role they play in family planning, especially in overpopulated countries. |
