Showing papers in "American journal of pharmacy and the sciences supporting public health in 1966"

Side-effects and possible complications of oral contraceptive drugs.

Abstract: Reactions to oral contraceptive therapy tend to be maximal during the first few months of use. They include nausea or epigastric discomfort malaise dizziness nervousness fatigue weakness leg cramps headache and depression. The estrogenic component is thought to be the cause. There may also be a psychogenic basis reflecting apprehension. Breast tenderness is an occasional complaint and intermenstrual spotting or breakthrough bleeding is often reported. Increasing dosage has reduced this symptom. Dysmenorrhea prior to treatment may be improved but occasionally it is aggravated. Drug-induced amenorrhea presents a double problem in that failure to resume medication 7 days after completion of a cycle results in a risk of conception. Episodes of severe uterine bleeding in patients discontinuing use after several months or years have been reported. Other side effects include a skin reaction resembling acne pruritis hirsutism thinning of scalp hair increased skin pigmentation and weight gain or loss. Serious vascular complications and hepatic dysfunction have been shown and deviation of thyroid function may be shown by increase of serum protein-bound iodine (PBI). Clinical signs of hyperthyroidism have not been described. Oral contraception is associated with elevated plasma cortisol (hydrocortisone) levels and decreased urinary levels of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OCHS). Suppression of ovarian activity by oral contraceptives is rapidly reversible. Fear of carcinogenesis has caused much alarm but no proof as of the present time. Safety of long term use will require additional years of experience.

Drugs used in fertility control.

Abstract: The article presents a general overview of oral contraceptives in their various aspects. The history of research which has led to the present state of oral contraceptive formulations is reviewed. Oral contraceptives available in the United States are listed and described and dosage regimens are reviewed. Endometrial effects and side effects are generally discussed. Possible complications are discussed and contraindications are noted. Research into different kinds of drug fertility control are mentioned.