An incremental-dose combined oestrogen-progestogen oral contraceptive: effects on body weight, blood pressure, and...

An evaluation is presented of the effects of an incremental-dose combined oestrogen-progestogen contraceptive (0.05 mg ethinyl oestradiol throughout the cycle plus d-norgestrel 0.05 mg for the first 11 days and 0.125 mg for the subsequent 10 days). The majority of women showed weight changes less than 1.0 kg; a weight gain in excess of 2 kg was observed in 11.4% and a similar loss in 14.3%. The net change in blood pressure after 12 months was a slight reduction; no excessive elevation of pressure was recorded. Although no significant change in glucose tolerance was noted, triglyceride levels became progressively elevated; the increase in cholesterol levels were observed mainly in the second half of the cycle. Changes occurred in some but not all haematologic parameters: a significant increase in plasminogen level and decrease in activated prothrombin time; factors 7, 9 and 10 were progressively increased, whereas factors 5, 8, fibrinogen and antithrombin activity remained unaltered. This new preparation provides effective contraception with satisfactory cycle control and body weight changes. It is particularly useful in women who require additional oestrogen.