Methestrol dipropionate

Methestrol dipropionate (also known as promethestrol dipropionate and dienestrol dipropionate) is a synthetic, nonsteroidal estrogen of the stilbestrol group that was formerly used in medicine but has since been discontinued. It is an estrogen ester – specifically, the 3,17-dipropionate ester of methestrol (dienestrol) – and acts as a prodrug of methestrol in the body. Methestrol dipropionate is administered by injection and is used for indications such as the treatment of menopausal symptoms and gynecological disorders.

History

Methestrol dipropionate was first described in the literature in 1949 and was introduced for medical use by 1951. It was used in the United States and Europe but was withdrawn in many countries in the 1970s due to safety concerns.

Medical uses

Methestrol dipropionate was used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms, gynecological disorders, and certain hormone-sensitive cancers. It was also used to support pregnancy in women with a history of recurrent miscarriage.

Pharmacology

As a prodrug of methestrol, methestrol dipropionate has estrogenic activity. It is administered by injection, and once in the body, it is cleaved by esterases into methestrol and propionic acid.

Side effects

The side effects of methestrol dipropionate are similar to those of other estrogens. These may include nausea, breast tenderness, menstrual irregularities, and fluid retention. In addition, there is a risk of thromboembolism and other serious cardiovascular side effects.

Society and culture

Methestrol dipropionate was marketed under a variety of brand names including Honvol, Improvil, and Synthoestrin, among others. It is no longer available in any country.

See also

• List of estrogen esters
• List of discontinued drugs