An oral contraceptive containing drospirenone - A synthetic progestin withantimineralocorticoid and antiandrogenic properties

We report on an oral contraceptive containing the new progestin drospirenon e, whose effects differ from those of other synthetic progestagens. Chemica lly, drospirenone is a spirolactone derivative and thus has antimineralocor ticoid activity. Its progestational activity consists of an antigonadotropi c effect, its effect on the cervical mucous, and the secretory transformati on of the estrogen-stimulated endometrium. An oral contraceptive containing 3 mg of drospirenone and 30 mug ethinylestradiol has a contraceptive effec t and cycle control comparable to those of other low-dose pills. Drospireno ne has been found to have antimineralocorticoid activity in vitro and in ex perimental and clinical studies. Reduced sodium retention and favorable eff ects on body weight suggest reduced water retention via the renin-angiotens in-aldosterone system. An antiandrogenic effect has also been demonstrated in vitro, in animal experiments, and by a beneficial effect on acne and seb orrhea. The antiandrogenic effect of drospirenone is between that of dienog est and chlormadinone acetate.