Meso-Butestrol

Meso-Butestrol is a synthetic, steroidal estrogen that was never marketed. It is part of the estrogen medication family and is closely related to hexestrol, dienestrol, and diethylstilbestrol.

Chemistry

Meso-Butestrol, also known as 4,4'-(1,2-diethyl-1,2-ethanediyl)bis(2-methylphenol), is a synthetic phenol and a derivative of stilbene. It is structurally related to the stilbene-type estrogens, which include diethylstilbestrol, dienestrol, and hexestrol, among others.

Pharmacology

As a synthetic estrogen, Meso-Butestrol binds to and activates the estrogen receptors (ERs) in various tissues in the body. This activation can lead to a variety of effects, depending on the tissue in question. For example, in the breasts, ER activation can lead to growth and development, while in the bones, it can help maintain bone density.

History

Meso-Butestrol is one of the many synthetic estrogens that were developed in the mid-20th century, a period of intense research and development in the field of steroid hormones. Despite its development, Meso-Butestrol was never marketed for medical use.

See also

• List of estrogens
• List of phenols