Comparison of two triphasic contraceptives with different progestogens: effects on metabolism and coagulation...

This study compared the effects of two triphasic oral contraceptives (OCs) taken for 6 pill cycles. One preparation contained levonorgestrel (EE/LN), the other a new progestagen, gestodene (SHG 415G). There were no effects on body weight, dietary habits, blood pressure, HDL-cholesterol or carbohydrate metabolism. Both OCs caused a small but statistically significant increase in plasma total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, LDL/HDL-cholesterol ratio and triglyceride concentration. Sex hormone binding globulin was increased by both preparations. Coagulation factor VII and fibrinogen were increased and antithrombin III levels reduced, indicating that both preparations had pro-coagulant activity. The gestodene triphasic preparation was associated with minor side effects similar to those experienced on EE/LN. The metabolic effects were similar despite the lower total steroid dose of the gestodene preparation.