Antiprogestogen

Antiprogestogen (pronunciation: an-ti-pro-jes-to-gen), also known as progesterone receptor antagonist, is a type of medication that has effects opposite to those of progesterone, a naturally occurring hormone in the human body.

Etymology

The term "antiprogestogen" is derived from the prefix "anti-", meaning against, and "progestogen", referring to any substance that produces effects similar to those of progesterone.

Function

Antiprogestogens are used in a variety of medical applications, including the treatment of endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and as part of some contraceptive methods. They work by blocking the action of progesterone at the progesterone receptor, thus inhibiting the effects of this hormone.

Types of Antiprogestogens

There are several types of antiprogestogens, including mifepristone, ulipristal acetate, and onapristone. Each of these medications works in a slightly different way, but all are designed to block the effects of progesterone.

Side Effects

Like all medications, antiprogestogens can have side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. In rare cases, serious side effects such as bleeding or infection may occur.

Related Terms

Progesterone: A hormone that prepares the uterus for pregnancy and regulates the menstrual cycle.
Progesterone receptor: A protein within cells that binds to progesterone, allowing it to have its effects.
Endometriosis: A condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus.
Uterine fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Contraceptive: A method or device used to prevent pregnancy.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Antiprogestogen
Wikipedia's article - Antiprogestogen

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Antiprogestogen