Norethisterone, also known as norethindrone, is a synthetic progestational hormone belonging to the 19-nortestosterone-derived class of progestins.[A10367] It is further classified as a second-generation progestin, along with [levonorgestrel] and its derivatives, and is the active form of several other progestins including [norethynodrel] and [lynestrenol].[A10367] Norethisterone mimics the actions of endogenous [progesterone], albeit with a greater potency,[A188075] and is used on its own or in combination with estrogen derivatives in a variety of applications including contraception and hormone replacement therapy.[L9527,L10301,L10304,L10307] First derived in 1951 in Mexico City, norethisterone was originally intended for use as a remedy for irregular menstruation and endometriosis, and was not marketed for use as an oral contraceptive until 1962.[L10439]
Norethisterone is indicated as an oral contraceptive when given as monotherapy[L9527] or in combination with an estrogen component, such as [ethinylestradiol] or [estradiol].[L10313,L10307] In combination with an estrogen component, oral norethisterone is also indicated as a hormone replacement therapy in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis and moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms arising from menopause.[L10304] When applied via transdermal patch, the combination of norethisterone and estradiol is indicated for the treatment of hypoestrogenism, vulvovaginal atrophy, and moderate-severe vasomotor symptoms.[L10301] Norethisterone, taken in combination with intramuscular [leuprolide], is also indicated for the symptomatic treatment of endometriosis-related pain.[L10310]
Categories
Adrenal Cortex Hormones
Anti-Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormones
Combination Contraceptives (with Estrogen and derivatives)
Drug Info/Drug Targets: DrugBank 3.0: a comprehensive resource for 'omics' research on drugs. Knox C, Law V, Jewison
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