Synthetic estrogens and progestational hormones
Bocci, A.
Minerva Ginecologica 26(4): 200-204
1974
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-4784 PMID: 4424597 Document Number: 521508
The pharmacology of synthetic estrogens and progestagens is briefly reviewed. Among the therapeutic disadvantages of naturally occurring estrogens is their inactivation by the liver. By esterification of naturally occurring estrogens, however, synthetic compounds can be produced which closely imitate estrogenic activity, and which are not inactivated by the liver. Esterification of natural progesterone derivatives has also yielded clinically useful substances. In addition, nonsteroid structures with estrogenic activity have been synthesized. Orally active derivatives of natural estrogens and progesterone have also been made. Many clinical uses, including contraception, prevention of spontaneous abortion, and treatment of hormonal disorders and neoplastic conditions, are foreseeen for these compounds.