Hexestrol diacetate
Hexestrol diacetate
Hexestrol diacetate (pronunciation: hex-est-rol die-uh-set-ate) is a synthetic, nonsteroidal estrogen that was previously used in the treatment of menopausal and postmenopausal disorders. It is a derivative of diethylstilbestrol (DES), with two acetyl groups added to the hydroxyl ends of the molecule.
Etymology
The term "Hexestrol" is derived from the Greek word "hex" meaning "six" and "estrol" from "estrus" meaning "gadfly" or "frenzy". The "diacetate" part refers to the two acetyl groups added to the molecule.
Usage
Hexestrol diacetate was used as an estrogen replacement therapy in menopausal and postmenopausal women. It was also used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer and prostate cancer. However, due to its association with an increased risk of cancer and other serious side effects, it is no longer used in medicine.
Related Terms
- Estrogen: A group of hormones that play an important role in the normal sexual and reproductive development in women.
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES): A synthetic form of estrogen that was developed to supplement a woman's natural estrogen production.
- Breast cancer: A type of cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts.
- Prostate cancer: A type of cancer that occurs in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland in men that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
- Cancer: A group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hexestrol diacetate
- Wikipedia's article - Hexestrol diacetate
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