Drospirenone
Drospirenone
Drospirenone (pronounced droh-SPY-reh-known) is a synthetic hormone used in birth control pills and postmenopausal hormone replacement therapies. It is a type of progestin, which is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring female hormone progesterone.
Etymology
The term "Drospirenone" is derived from the chemical structure of the compound. The prefix "dro" refers to the presence of a dihydro group in the molecule, while "spire" refers to the spiroketal chemical structure. The suffix "none" is a common ending for steroid hormones, indicating the presence of a ketone group.
Usage
Drospirenone is used in combination with ethinyl estradiol or estradiol in oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapies. It works by preventing ovulation and causing changes in the cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.
Related Terms
- Progestin: A synthetic form of progesterone, a hormone naturally produced by the ovaries.
- Progesterone: A hormone produced by the ovaries that plays a vital role in the menstrual cycle and in maintaining the early stages of pregnancy.
- Ethinyl estradiol: A synthetic form of estrogen used in combination with a progestin in oral contraceptives.
- Estradiol: The primary female sex hormone, estradiol is a form of estrogen used in many hormone replacement therapies.
Side Effects
Like all medications, drospirenone can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, bloating, breast tenderness, swelling of the ankles/feet (fluid retention), or weight change. Serious side effects are rare but can include lumps in the breast, mental/mood changes, severe stomach/abdominal/pelvic pain, unusual changes in vaginal bleeding, and dark urine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Drospirenone
- Wikipedia's article - Drospirenone
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