Gestational sac

Gestadienol acetate is a synthetic, steroidal progestin that was never marketed. It is a derivative of progesterone and was first synthesized in the late 1960s.

Chemistry

Gestadienol acetate, also known as 17α-acetoxy-6-dehydroprogesterone, is a synthetic pregnane steroid and a derivative of progesterone. It is specifically a derivative of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone and is a member of the gestadienol and gestodene group of progestins.

Pharmacology

As a progestin, gestadienol acetate has progestogenic activity. It binds to and activates the progesterone receptor, thereby exerting its effects. Progestogens like gestadienol acetate are responsible for changes in the endometrium that prepare it for implantation of a fertilized egg and maintenance of pregnancy.

History

Gestadienol acetate was first synthesized in the late 1960s. Despite its potential as a contraceptive, it was never marketed. The reasons for this are not entirely clear, but may be related to its pharmacokinetic properties or potential side effects.

See also

• List of progestogens
• List of progestogen esters