Serum activity of lysosomal enzymes in relationship to contraceptive steroid dose

Women using combined-type oral contraceptives show a progressive increase in serum activity of lysosomal enzymes (beta-glucuronidase and beta-acetyl-glucuronidase) during the first 6 cycles of treatment; thereafter, the enzyme activities remain relatively constant. The increase in enzyme activity appears to be approximately proportional to the total steroid intake per cycle and not to any particular steroid or combination of steroids. These findings suggest that oral contraceptives of choice should contain the minimum amount of steroids compatible with high efficacy and patient acceptability.