Progestogens

Progestogens are primarily used for contraception but can also be used to support pregnancy depending on dose and clinical scenario.  Progestogens mediate their contraceptive effects by inducing a thinned endometrium and thick cervical mucus.  Progestins do suppress ovulation but not completely.  Progestin-only contraceptives are not as effective as combination (estrogen and progestin pills).

Class Drugs

• Desogestrel

• Dienogest

• Drospirenone

• Etonogestrel

• Levonorgestrel

• Medroxyprogesterone

• Norelgestromin

• Norethindrone

• Norgestimate

• Norgestrel

• Progesterone

Class Mechanism of Action

Interacts with progesterone receptors to mediate effects

• Progestogens stimulate secretory endometrium in high doses to promote implantation of embryo and maintenance of pregnancy

• In contraception, progestogens increase cervical mucus viscosity, promote endometrial atrophy, suppress endometrial proliferation, and suppresses release of FSH & LH from the pituitary.

• In hormone replacement, progestogens suppress endometrial hyperplasia that would occur with unopposed estrogen administration.

Class Applications

Contraception

Hormone Replacement

Class Adverse Effects

Headache

Depression

Weight gain

Acne

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Desogestrel			"Dez" "Jester"
Dienogest			"Dino" "Jester"
Drospirenone			"Drops" "Renowned"
Etonogestrel			"Entone" "Jester"
Levonorgestrel	Emergency contraception		"Lever" "Jester"
Medroxyprogesterone			"Meds" "Rocks" "Pro" "Jester"
Norelgestromin			"North" "Jester" "Ramen"
Norethindrone			"North" "Ether" "Drone"
Norgestimate			"North" "Estimate"
Norgestrel			"North" "Jester"
Progesterone			"Pro" "Jester" "One"