Ethynodiol diacetate

Ethynodiol diacetate
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration	Oral
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism	Hepatic
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status	Rx-only
CAS Number	297-76-7
PubChem	5284554
DrugBank	DB00957
ChemSpider	4447590
KEGG	D04175

Ethynodiol diacetate is a progestin medication which is used in birth control pills. It is used in combination with an estrogen and is taken by mouth.

Medical Uses

Ethynodiol diacetate is primarily used as a component of oral contraceptives. It is combined with an estrogen, such as ethinylestradiol, to prevent ovulation and thereby prevent pregnancy. The medication is also used in the treatment of menstrual disorders such as dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia.

Pharmacology

Pharmacodynamics

Ethynodiol diacetate is a progestogen, or an agonist of the progesterone receptor. It has weak androgenic and estrogenic activity. The medication works by suppressing gonadotropin secretion, inhibiting ovulation, and causing changes in the endometrium and cervical mucus that are unfavorable for fertilization and implantation.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, ethynodiol diacetate is rapidly absorbed and undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver. It is converted to its active form, ethynodiol, and other metabolites. The medication is primarily excreted in the urine and feces.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ethynodiol diacetate include nausea, headache, breast tenderness, and weight gain. Serious side effects may include thromboembolism, hypertension, and liver dysfunction.

Contraindications

Ethynodiol diacetate is contraindicated in individuals with a history of thromboembolic disorders, liver disease, breast cancer, and pregnancy. It should be used with caution in individuals with hypertension, diabetes, and migraine.

Interactions

Ethynodiol diacetate may interact with other medications such as antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and antiretrovirals, which can reduce its effectiveness. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider regarding potential drug interactions.

Chemistry

Ethynodiol diacetate is a synthetic steroid and a derivative of norethisterone. It is the diacetate ester of ethynodiol. The chemical structure of ethynodiol diacetate is characterized by the presence of an ethynyl group at the C17α position and acetate groups at the C3 and C17β positions.

History

Ethynodiol diacetate was first introduced for medical use in the 1960s. It was one of the early progestins used in combination oral contraceptives and has been widely used since then.

Society and Culture

Ethynodiol diacetate is marketed under various brand names, including Continuin, Femulen, and Luteonorm. It is available in many countries around the world and is used by millions of women as a form of contraception.

See Also

• Progestin
• Oral contraceptive
• Ethinylestradiol

External Links

• [Link to external resources]