Tibolone

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File:Tibolone.svg
Tibolone.svg
Tibolone
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration Oral
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism Hepatic
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number 5630-53-5
PubChem 656659
DrugBank DB09070
ChemSpider 571054
KEGG D08578


Tibolone is a synthetic steroid used primarily in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for postmenopausal women. It is marketed under various brand names, including Livial and Tibofem. Tibolone exhibits tissue-specific effects, acting as an estrogen, progestogen, and androgen depending on the target tissue.

Pharmacology[edit]

Tibolone is metabolized into three active metabolites that contribute to its tissue-specific effects. These metabolites include:

  • 3α-hydroxytibolone
  • 3β-hydroxytibolone
  • Δ4-tibolone

The metabolites exhibit varying affinities for estrogen, progesterone, and androgen receptors, which allows tibolone to mimic the effects of these hormones in different tissues.

Medical Uses[edit]

Tibolone is primarily used for the treatment of symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal atrophy, and osteoporosis. It is also used to prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Menopausal Symptoms[edit]

Tibolone is effective in alleviating common menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats. It also helps in maintaining vaginal health by reducing vaginal dryness and atrophy.

Osteoporosis[edit]

Tibolone has been shown to have a positive effect on bone mineral density, making it a useful option for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Side Effects[edit]

Common side effects of tibolone include:

Serious side effects may include an increased risk of breast cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular disease.

Contraindications[edit]

Tibolone is contraindicated in individuals with:

Mechanism of Action[edit]

Tibolone's mechanism of action involves its conversion into active metabolites that interact with estrogen, progesterone, and androgen receptors. This interaction results in tissue-specific effects that help alleviate menopausal symptoms and prevent osteoporosis.

History[edit]

Tibolone was developed in the 1960s and has been used in clinical practice since the 1980s. It is available in many countries worldwide and is commonly prescribed for hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women.

See Also[edit]

References[edit]