Desogestrel is a synthetic hormonal medication used as a birth control pill, sold under various brand names including Cerazette and Marvelon. The spelling of Desogestrel follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription system. The 'd' is pronounced as /d/, followed by 'e' pronounced as /i:/, 's' pronounced as /s/, 'o' pronounced as /ɒ/, 'g' pronounced as /dʒ/, 'e' pronounced as /i:/, 's' pronounced as /s/, 't' pronounced as /t/, 'r' pronounced as /ɛl/. So altogether it is pronounced as /dɛsəʊˈdʒɛstrəl/.
Desogestrel is a synthetic progestin hormone that is primarily used as a contraceptive agent. It belongs to the class of drugs known as progestogens, which are synthetic versions of the hormone progesterone. Desogestrel is commonly found in combination with estrogen in contraceptive pills, also known as oral contraceptives or birth control pills.
As a contraceptive, desogestrel works by preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation), thinning the lining of the uterus to make it less receptive to sperm, and thickening the cervical mucus, which acts as a barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. These actions collectively contribute to the prevention of pregnancy.
Aside from its contraceptive use, desogestrel may also have other medical applications. It is sometimes prescribed to treat menstrual disorders, such as heavy or irregular periods. Additionally, it may be utilized to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes.
Desogestrel is typically taken orally in the form of tablets, either on a continuous daily basis or using a 21-day cycle with a 7-day break. It is important to take desogestrel as directed by a healthcare professional to ensure its effectiveness. Like any medication, desogestrel may have potential side effects, which can vary from person to person and may include headache, nausea, breast tenderness, changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, and mood changes. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider for further information and guidance on the use of desogestrel.
The word "Desogestrel" is derived from a combination of two components: "deso-" and "-gestrel".
The prefix "deso-" is a common pharmaceutical prefix used to describe a molecule that is structurally related to an existing compound but has some modifications or alterations. It is often used to indicate different generations or versions of a drug.
The suffix "-gestrel" is derived from "gestagen", which itself is derived from "gestation". "Gestagen" refers to a type of hormone that is involved in the regulation of the female reproductive system, particularly in relation to pregnancy and fertility. This suffix is commonly used in the names of hormonal contraceptives.
Therefore, "Desogestrel" can be understood as a modified form of a gestagen hormone, likely used in a contraceptive or hormonal therapy context.