Menstrual stimulant

The effects of raloxifene in premenopausal women have been analyzed in subjects with normal ovarian function treated with high doses (100 to 400 mg daily) at either different time points of their menstrual cycle or continuously for 4 weeks (Baker et al. 1998). Raloxifene did not prevent ovulation, nor did it alter the length of the menstrual cycle or the day of the LH surge. However, it did stimulate FSH secretion, increase serum estradiol levels, and decrease serum PRL. These results are also similar to those reported for premenopausal women taking tamoxifen (Jordan et al. 1991) and are indicative of some antiestrogenic action at either the hypothalamic and/or pituitary level. 

Figure 19.12 Representation of changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. Note that LH peaks about one day before ovulation. Oestrogen has two peaks one in the Luteal phase prior to LH surge and a smaller one in the follicular phase. Progesterone peaks in the follicular phase to stimulate development of endometrium.

Oestradiol and progesterone regulate the structural and functional changes in oviducts, uterus, cervix and vagina that occur during the menstrual cycle. They provide conditions in the oviduct for the upward motility of sperm, and the downward movement of ova, and also conditions favourable for fertilisation in the oviduct and implantation in the uterus. Another effect is to stimulate vaginal secretions. 

These correlation studies stimulated experiments to identify the active chemical cues. Russell etal. (1980) rubbed underarm perspiration from a single woman onto the upper lip of five women aged 19-39 years. After 5 months, the odor-exposed women differed from one another in their onset of the menstrual cycle by 3.4 days, on average, compared with 9.2 days in the control group. Before the experiment, the mean differences had been 9.3 and 8.0 days, respectively. The volunteers were aware of the purpose of the experiment. 

Side effects include fatigue, insomnia, and altered motor coordination. Parkinsonian side effects and acute dys-tonic reactions also have been reported. Metoclopramide stimulates prolactin secretion, which can cause galactorrhea and menstrual disorders. Extrapyramidal side effects seen following administration of the phenothiazines, thioxanthenes, and butyrophenones may be accentuated by metoclopramide. 

Venezuela. Hot water extract of the rhizome is taken orally to stimulate the menstrual flow . 

A low dosage of progestin ( mini-pill ) is used, in the form of medroxyprogesterone acetate, which is active at a very low dose. The mini-pill does not inhibit ovulation, but rather interferes with the endometrium and the cervical mucus. The use of this pill prevents most of the side effects of oral contraception, specifically nausea, water retention, and in some cases thrombophlebitis. However, a lower success rate and other frequent side effects have reduced the widespread acceptance of this preparation. Nevertheless, the mini-pill has a role to play in certain specific situations. For example, in an uncommon form of epilepsy called catamenial epilepsy, female patients will experience seizures at particular times during their menstrual cycle, reflecting the fact that seizure focus is stimulated by estrogens but inhibited by progestins. In such women, the mini-pill may afford not only birth control but also improved seizure control. 

N.A. Triterpenoid saponins." Treat canker sores, toothache, bleeding gums and nosebleeds. Invigorate blood flow, stimulate menstruation, ease menstrual pain. 

Uses Breast/endometrial CAs appetite stimulant in cachexia (CA HIV) Action Hormone progesterone analog Dose CA 40-320 mg/d PO in + doses Appetite 800 mg/d PO + dose Caution [X, -] Thromboembolism Contra PRG Disp Tabs, soln SE DVT edema, menstrual bleeding photosens, insomnia, rash, 4- BM Interactions T Effects OF warfarin EMS T Risk of CV problems, esp in smokers T effects of warfarin may T glucose T risk of photosensitivity Rxns OD Unlikely to cause life-threatening Sxs... 

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