The effects on hemostasis of oral contraceptives containing desogestrel.
Epidemiologic research has shown that current low-dose estrogen oral contraceptives are associated with a low risk of vascular events (e.g., myocardial infarction, stroke, and venous thrombosis or thromboembolism). Yet questions still persist about the effects of low-dose oral contraceptives on the cardiovascular system. Changes in the coagulation system have been linked primarily to the estrogen component; however, it has been proposed that the progestin may have an influence on the fibrinolytic system. Desogestrel, a new gonane progestin, has been commercially available in Europe since 1981. It has been widely shown to produce minimal changes of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems, and it has not been associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic disorders.
Stubblefield
P G
PG
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maine Medical Center, Portland 04102.
D001777:Blood Coagulation / Q000187:drug effects; D003277:Contraceptives, Oral, Combined; D017135:Desogestrel / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D004997:Ethinyl Estradiol / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D005342:Fibrinolysis / Q000187:drug effects; D006487:Hemostasis / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans
D003277:Contraceptives, Oral, Combined; D004997:Ethinyl Estradiol; D017135:Desogestrel