W32/L7 Flashcards
Why do we use synthetic oestrogens in the OCP?
Oestrodial is not v. orally bioavailable
What is the MoA of the oestrogen in OCPs?
Oestrogen exerts a -‘ve feedback on the anterior pituitary, preventing the release of FSH & LH
What are the physiological sources of oestrogen?
Ovary
Placenta
Adrenal cortex
What’s the main synthetic oestrogen we use in COCs?
Ethinyloestradiol
What’s the name of the older progestrogen we have to remember?
Levonorgestrel
What’s a common A/E of the older progestrogens?
Androgenic effects (incl hirsutism & acne)
Why is cyproterone a good treatment for women with PCOS?
As a COC, it will help with dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia
It’s an antiandrogen and will help with high testosterone
Which progestogen is derived from spirolactone?
Drospirenone
What things can diminish the efficacy of COCs?
Non-adherance
V&D
Some ABs
Why is the mini-pill indicated in lactating women?
Oestrogen inhibits lactation, and the mini-pill is progesterone only
What are some mechanisms of progesterone’s action?
- Makes the endometrium inhospitable
- Changes the cervical mucus to be less penetrable
- Interferes with the uterine/fallopian contractions that facilitate fertilisation
What factors greatly increase the risk of venothromboembolism on the OCP?
Over 35
Smoking
