Mestranol (Mestranol)
Overview of Mestranol
Mestranol is a potent synthetic estrogen, with actions, uses and adverse effects similar to estrodiol, usually present in combined oral contraceptive steroid preparations. Chemically Mestranol is (17a)-3-methoxy-19-norpregna-1, 3, 5 (10)-trien-20-yn-17-ol.it achieves its estrogenic activity through conversion of ethinyl estradiol by the process of demethylation. it is given by mouth to supress ovulation, in combination with progesterone to reinforcethe contraceptive action and alos for other menstruation disorders.
Indication of Mestranol
Mestranol is primarily indicated in conditions like Contraception, Menopausal symptoms, Menstruation disorders.
Contraindication of Mestranol
Mestranol is contraindicated in conditions like Asthma,Depression,Diabetes mellitus,Epilepsy,Gall stones,Hypertension,Migraine,Sickle cell anaemia,Hyperlipidemia,Thromboembolism,Genital bleeding,Thrombophlebitis,Cerebrovascular disease,Chloasma,Cholestatic jaundice,Herpes gestations,Endometriosis,Porphyria,Raynaud's disease,Coronary artery disease,Hepatic tumor,Estrogen-dependent malignant disease.
Side Effects of Mestranol
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Mestranol, which give rise to further complications include Chloasma, Sickle crises in sicklers, Porphyria.,Mestranol produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pulmonary embolism, Hypertension, Endometrial carcinoma, Endometrial hyperplasia, Cerebral thrombosis, Gall bladder disease, Liver tumors, Breast carcinoma, Cervix carcinoma, Coronary thrombosis, Venous thrombosis. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Mestranol therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Mestranol include Nausea, Vomiting, Uterine withdrawal bleeding.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Mestranol are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Nausea, Vomiting, Weight gain, Fluid retention, Breast discomfort, Menstrual irregularity, Vaginal candidiasis, Changes in corneal curvature, Cervical ectropion, dizziness.
Precautions of Mestranol
Mestranol should be used with caution in patients with medical history, including family medical history, especially if have asthma, high blood pressure, kidney, liver or heart disease or a history of jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) or high blood pressure during pregnancy, excessive weight gain or fluid retention during menstrual cycle, strokes, blood clots, heart attacks, seizures, migraine headaches, breast cancer, high blood level of cholesterol or lipids (fats) or depression. Higher strengths are more likely to cause melasma (darkening of skin), sunlight may intensify this darkening and may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps, consult the doctor regarding use of sunscreens and protective clothing. Oral contraceptives should be stopped at least three months before becoming pregnant. Use another method of birth control during those three months. Consult with doctor before lactation. Avoid smoking. Birth-control pills slightly increase risk of strokes, blood clots, high blood pressure, heart attacks, gallbladder disease, vision problems and liver tumors. Cigarette smoking (especially 15 or more cigarettes daily) and age (women older than 35 or 40 years of age) further increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure and heart attacks. Avoid using contact lenses because it may develop vision problems, consult with eye doctor if these problems occur. Before having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor about the use of the drug.