Tigestol

Tigestol is a progestin medication which is used in birth control pills and in menopausal hormone therapy. It is not available as a standalone medication, but rather is used in combination with an estrogen. Tigestol is taken by mouth.

Pharmacology

Tigestol, also known as levonorgestrel, is a synthetic progestin that is similar in structure and pharmacological effect to progesterone. It works primarily by inhibiting the secretion of gonadotropins, which in turn prevents follicular maturation and ovulation. In addition, Tigestol causes changes in the endometrium that can prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.

Medical uses

Tigestol is used in combination with an estrogen in birth control pills and in menopausal hormone therapy. In birth control pills, it works to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and causing changes in the endometrium. In menopausal hormone therapy, Tigestol is used to prevent endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer that can result from taking estrogen alone.

Side effects

Common side effects of Tigestol include nausea, breast tenderness, headache, and changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Less common side effects can include mood changes, weight gain, and acne. Rare but serious side effects can include blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.

See also

• List of progestogens
• List of contraceptives
• List of hormonal cytostatics