Estetrol (E4) is a natural estrogen, which is produced in the fetal liver during pregnancy. It activates the nuclear receptor ERα, but unlike other estrogens, it is an antagonost of the membrane receptor ERα, so is considered the first natural estrogen with selective effect on tissues. Hormonal contraceptive containing E4 and drospirenone (DRSP) effectively inhibits ovulation, shows good control of monthly bleeding, has favorable effect on lipid profile, liver, sex hormone bindig glubulin (SHBG) level and carbohydrate metabolism. Studies have shown that E4 alone or in combination with DRSP has a neutral effect on hemostasis and does not promote the growth of breast cancer or metastatic dissemination. Those findings indicate that the combination of E4 and DRSP may have a better benefit-risk ratio regarding the impact on hemostasis and breast in comparison to existing hormonal contraceptives on the market.
Key words:
contraceptive; drospirenone; estetrol
