Polydiethylstilbestrol phosphate

Polydiethylstilbestrol phosphate

Polydiethylstilbestrol phosphate is a synthetic, nonsteroidal estrogen that was formerly used in the treatment of various estrogen-related conditions. It is a phosphate ester of diethylstilbestrol, a drug that has been banned due to its carcinogenic properties.

History

Polydiethylstilbestrol phosphate was developed in the mid-20th century as a more potent and longer-lasting alternative to diethylstilbestrol. However, like its parent compound, it was found to be associated with a high risk of cancer, particularly vaginal cancer in women exposed to the drug in utero. As a result, it was withdrawn from the market and is no longer used in clinical practice.

Pharmacology

As an estrogen, polydiethylstilbestrol phosphate binds to and activates the estrogen receptor, a nuclear receptor that regulates the expression of various genes involved in female sexual development and reproductive function. The phosphate group of the molecule increases its lipophilicity, allowing it to be absorbed more readily and to have a longer duration of action than diethylstilbestrol.

Adverse effects

The most serious adverse effect of polydiethylstilbestrol phosphate is its carcinogenicity. Exposure to the drug in utero has been linked to a high risk of vaginal and cervical cancer in women, as well as an increased risk of breast cancer in their mothers. Other adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and menstrual irregularities.

Legal status

Due to its carcinogenic properties, polydiethylstilbestrol phosphate is banned in many countries, including the United States and the European Union. It is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

See also

• Diethylstilbestrol
• Estrogen receptor
• Pharmacology of estrogens