Progestins formulations

Table 3. Progestin Formulations Marketed in the United States ...

As of 1994, there were approximately 47 progestin-containing contraceptive dmg formulations sold in the United States for use as oral contraceptives (Table 3). In addition, there are three nonoral contraceptive formulations containing progestins ie, one injectable (Depo-Provera), one as an intrauterine device (lUD) (Progestasert), and one implantable (Norplant). Of the oral formulations, all but two also contain an estrogen component, ethynylestradiol. 

Several progestins have been formulated for administration... 

Progestin-only oral contraceptive formulations consist of a low dose of either norethindrone or norgestrel... 

C. Although progestin-only oral contraceptive formulations are available, the combination of estrogen and progestin is considered the safest and most desirable type. 

The seven dmgs and the combination estrogen-progestin product presently approved in the US for delivery by the transdermal route were all well known and available in more conventional dosage forms before their formulation into skin patches . All of these dmgs are extremely potent, none requiring more than about 20 mg per day (and some, much less) for effective therapy. 

Because the postmenopausal woman is usually treated concomitantly with an oral progestin (i.e. in addition to the need for estrogen replacement), there have been, and continue to be, attempts to formulate a combination estrogen-progestin patch. One of the first of these systems containing estradiol and levonorgestrel has recently been approved for marketing. 

Progestin preparations. Depot formulations for Lm. injection are 17-a-hydroxy-progesterone caproate and medroxyprogesterone acetate. Preparations for oral use... 

Lunelle. Lunelle is a newer injectable contraceptive formulation that combines the effects of a progestin, medroxy-... 

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