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Desogestrel: using a selective progestogen in a combined oral contraceptive
1Medical Services Department, Organon International BV, Oss, The Netherlands.
Advances in Contraception : the Official Journal of the Society for the Advancement of Contraception
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Desogestrel in oral contraceptives (OCs) offers high efficacy with minimal androgenic effects. This progestogen positively impacts metabolic parameters and improves acne by reducing free testosterone.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Desogestrel is a highly selective progestogen utilized in oral contraceptives (OCs).
- Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) containing desogestrel demonstrate specific clinical characteristics due to its pharmacological profile.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical characteristics of a monophasic combined oral contraceptive containing desogestrel and ethinylestradiol (EE).
- To assess the contraceptive efficacy and metabolic and dermatological effects of this desogestrel-containing OC.
Main Methods:
- Clinical evaluation of a monophasic combined oral contraceptive (Marvelon) containing 150 mcg desogestrel and 30 mcg EE.
- Assessment of contraceptive efficacy, lipid metabolism, and androgenic effects, including impact on acne.
Main Results:
- The oral contraceptive demonstrated very high contraceptive efficacy.
- Minimal impact on metabolic parameters, with potentially positive effects on lipid metabolism observed.
- Beneficial effects on acne were noted, linked to increased sex hormone-binding globulin and decreased free testosterone.
Conclusions:
- The desogestrel-containing oral contraceptive exhibits high efficacy and favorable metabolic and dermatological profiles.
- Its strong progestogenic and minimal androgenic effects contribute to its clinical benefits, including acne improvement.