Drug Groups

approved; investigational

Description

Etonogestrel is a molecule used in hormonal contraceptives, most notably the subdermal implant Implanon. [Wikipedia]

Indication

For use as a female contraceptive (depot).

Pharmacology

Etonogestrel is used as a female contraceptive. Etonogestrel is a progestin or a synthetic form of the naturally occurring female sex hormone, progesterone. In a woman's normal menstrual cycle, an egg matures and is released from the ovaries (ovulation). The ovary then produces progesterone, preventing the release of further eggs and priming the lining of the womb for a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels in the body remain high, maintaining the womb lining. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels in the body fall, resulting in a menstrual period. Etonogestrel tricks the body processes into thinking that ovulation has already occurred, by maintaining high levels of the synthetic progesterone. This prevents the release of eggs from the ovaries.

Toxicity

Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, vaginal bleeding, and other menstrual irregularities.

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Hepatic.

Half Life

25 hours

Elimination

Excretion of ENG and its metabolites, either as free steroid or as conjugates, is mainly in urine and to a lesser extent in feces.

Distribution

* 201 L

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