Estrone benzoate

Estrone benzoate

Estrone benzoate is a synthetic, steroidal estrogen that is an ester of estrone. It is a white, crystalline solid that is practically insoluble in water and sparingly soluble in alcohol. Estrone benzoate is used in hormone replacement therapy for women who have passed menopause and for women who have had their ovaries removed. It is also used to treat some types of breast cancer in men and women.

Chemistry

Estrone benzoate, also known as 3-hydroxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-one 3-benzoate, is a synthetic estrane steroid and a derivative of estrone. It is more specifically a derivative of estrone in which the 3-hydroxy group has been esterified with benzoic acid. Estrone benzoate is a white to creamy white, crystalline powder. It is odorless or has a slight odor. It is stable in air but darkens on exposure to sunlight.

Pharmacology

Estrone benzoate is a prodrug of estrone, and hence is an estrogen, or an agonist of the estrogen receptors. The pharmacokinetics of estrone benzoate have been studied. Following intramuscular injection in oil, estrone benzoate is slowly absorbed into the body and then is hydrolyzed into estrone and benzoic acid. The medication has a relatively long duration of action when given by intramuscular injection in oil.

Medical uses

Estrone benzoate is used in hormone replacement therapy for menopausal syndrome in women, for instance in those who have had a hysterectomy. It is also used to treat some types of breast cancer in men and women. Estrone benzoate is used as a component of menopausal hormone therapy for the treatment of menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal atrophy.

Side effects

Side effects of estrone benzoate are similar to those of other estrogens. They can include breast tenderness, breast enlargement, nausea, bloating, edema, headache, and melasma.

See also

• List of estrogen esters
• List of estrogens