Estrogens and Progestins: Basic Pharmacology & Noncontraceptive Applications

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to estrogens, progestins, and birth control methods.

Estrogens

Hormones that promote female maturation, regulate the activity of female reproductive organs, and affect various physiological processes.

Progestins

Hormonal compounds that act like progesterone and are used in various therapeutic applications.

Estradiol

The principal endogenous estrogen in the body.

Progesterone

The principal progestational hormone produced by the ovaries and placenta.

Hormonal replacement therapy

A treatment to replace hormones that are at a lower level or absent in the body.

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)

Drugs developed to provide the benefits of estrogen while avoiding some of its drawbacks.

Tamoxifen

A SERM used in breast cancer treatment by inhibiting cell growth.

Raloxifene

A SERM that protects against osteoporosis and does not activate estrogen.

Menopausal hormone therapy

A treatment aimed at alleviating symptoms associated with menopause.

Endometrial hyperplasia

A condition where the lining of the uterus becomes too thick, potentially leading to cancer.

Amenorrhea

The absence of menstruation.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

A collection of symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

Breast cancer risk

The likelihood of developing breast cancer, which can be affected by hormone therapies.

Osteoporosis

A condition characterized by weakened bones, increasing fracture risk, often influenced by hormone levels.

Combination oral contraceptives (OCs)

Birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progestin.

Progestin-only oral contraceptives

Birth control pills that contain only progestin, also known as 'mini-pills'.

Intrauterine device (IUD)

A small device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

Thromboembolism

A condition where blood clots form in blood vessels and can lead to complications such as stroke.

Transdermal patch

A method of birth control delivering hormones through the skin.

Vaginal ring

A contraceptive device inserted into the vagina that releases hormones.

Hormone pharmacokinetics

The study of how hormones are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the body.