Ethinylestradiol sulfonate

Ethinylestradiol sulfonate (also known as EES) is a synthetic estrogen that is used in hormone therapy. It is a sulfonate ester of ethinylestradiol, which is itself a derivative of the natural estrogen, estradiol. Ethinylestradiol sulfonate is used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms, hypogonadism, prostate cancer, and for hormone replacement therapy in transgender women.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Ethinylestradiol sulfonate is a prodrug of ethinylestradiol. It is converted into ethinylestradiol in the body, which then exerts its effects by binding to and activating the estrogen receptor. This results in the regulation of gene expression and the production of proteins that mediate the effects of estrogen in the body.

Clinical use[edit | edit source]

Ethinylestradiol sulfonate is used in the treatment of conditions that are caused by a deficiency or imbalance of estrogen in the body. These include menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis. It is also used in the treatment of hypogonadism in women, where the ovaries do not produce enough estrogen. In addition, ethinylestradiol sulfonate is used in the treatment of prostate cancer, where it can help to slow the growth of the cancer cells. Finally, it is used in hormone replacement therapy in transgender women, to help them develop secondary sexual characteristics that are typical of women.

Side effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medications, ethinylestradiol sulfonate can cause side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, headache, and mood changes. More serious side effects can include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer. Therefore, it is important that the use of ethinylestradiol sulfonate is closely monitored by a healthcare professional.