Progestins and Antiprogestins in Clinical Practice

This comprehensive ready-reference guide thoroughly examines the physiological aspects of progestins and their role at the receptor level, focusing on reproductive activity, menopausal treatment, and related areas. The book presents vital research findings on the clinical use of progesterone and related derivatives, plus key applications of antiprogestins. Illuminates progesterone's remarkable power in hormonal contraception and regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary complex! Written by more than 25 leading international experts on women's health, "Progestins and Antiprogestins in Clinical Practice" explains the effects of long-term controlled progestin studies on breast tissue; discusses the nuclear localization of steroid hormone receptors; covers the relationship of CDK activity and cell proliferation; analyzes production of progesterone metabolites and precursors synthesized locally within the brain and in the endocrine glands; describes cardiovascular effects associated with combined oral contraceptives (COCs), highlighting carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and hematological factors. The book also investigates the epidemiology of estrogen-induced endometrial hyperplasia and/or cancer; demonstrates cases in which minor structural modifications in some steroid molecules can affect biological function; explores several properties of progesterone and its natural derivatives; illustrates instances of cloning of the intracellular progesterone receptor (PR) in several species; assesses direct progesterone action in target tissues and indirect effects of progesterone regulation; surveys properties of widely used contraceptive steroids, such as norethindrone (NET) plus estradiol (E2), levonorgestrel (LNG) plus estradiol (E2), nestorone plus ethinyl estradiol (EE2), and NET acetate plus EE2; reviews the efficacy and safety of newer contraceptive strategies such as Norplant implants and vaginal rings; covers applications of RU486 (mifepristone) and more!