Tag: Third generation progestin

Over 7 million prescriptions were written for an ethinylestradiol-norgestimate combination in the U.S. in 2023. A key component of these medications is norgestimate, a synthetic hormone with distinct pharmacological properties. So, what is the classification of norgestimate, and how do its characteristics influence its clinical applications?

With a contraceptive efficacy rate of over 99% with perfect use, combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are a widely used method of birth control [1.7.1]. One key component in many modern COCs is the synthetic hormone gestodene. **What is gestodene?** It is a highly potent, third-generation progestin designed to provide effective contraception with a low hormonal dose [1.2.3, 1.9.3].

First synthesized in 1972, desogestrel is a third-generation synthetic progestin widely used in hormonal contraception. This article explores what is desogestrel, detailing its mechanism of action, uses in both combined and progestogen-only formulations, and comparing it to older progestins.