[Progesterone and gestagen treatment. Pharmacologic and clinical aspects]

A review is presented of progestogens which assume a central position in future replacement therapy. The types and dosages of progestogens are of considerable significance for the effects and side effects. Attention is, therefore drawn to the plasma concentration and the minimal effective doses in the following two clinical treatments. Oestrogen primed endometrium is correctly transformed after treatment for 12 days with the following daily dosages: Dydrogesterone = 20 mg, medroxyprogesterone = 10 mg, norethisterone/norethisterone acetate = 0.7 mg, desogestrel = 150 micrograms or levonorgestrel approximately 100 micrograms. Inhibition of ovulation and contraception are obtained by means of the following daily doses: Medroxyprogesterone = 10 mg, norethisterone/norethisterone acetate = 350 micrograms, levonorgestrel = 50 micrograms, desogestrel = 60 micrograms, gestodene = 40 micrograms or norgestimate 250 micrograms.