1
|
Antonelli A, Giannini A, Chedraui P, Monteleone P, Caretto M, Genazzani AD, Mannella P, Simoncini T, Genazzani AR. Mood disorders and hormonal status across women's life: a narrative review. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:1019-1027. [PMID: 36433781 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2149730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorders and anxiety states represent one of the most frequent psychiatric pathologies occurring transiently in vulnerable women throughout their life, from puberty to menopause. It is now known that sex hormones play a key role on the nervous system, interfering with neuronal plasticity and enhancing the processes of learning, memory, cognition, and mood. Numerous mechanisms are at the base of these processes, displaying interactions between estrogen and serotoninergic, dopaminergic, and GABAergic receptors at the central level. Therefore, given the sexual steroids fluctuations throughout the entire female lifespan, and considering the role played by sex hormones at the central level, it is not surprising to observe the onset of mood or neurodegenerative disorders over time. This is especially true for women in hormonal transition phase, such as puberty, postpartum and the menopausal transition. Moreover, all these conditions are characterized by hormone withdrawal, imbalance, or modifications due to menopausal hormone therapies or contraceptives which could prompt to a deterioration of mood and cognition impairment or to an improvement in the quality of life. More studies are needed to better understand the hormone-related effects on the nervous system, and the underlying pathways involved in transitional or chronic mood disorders, to promote new patient-specific therapeutic strategies more effective than the current ones and tailored according to the individual need and women's life period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Antonelli
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Giannini
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Peter Chedraui
- Instituto de Investigación e Innovación en Salud Integral, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica "Nuestra Señora de la Asunción", Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Patrizia Monteleone
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marta Caretto
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro D Genazzani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Paolo Mannella
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Tommaso Simoncini
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea R Genazzani
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lee SM, Park JK. Dienogest-induced major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e27456. [PMID: 34622869 PMCID: PMC8500645 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000027456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Dienogest is a type of progestin used for the treatment of endometriosis (EM). However, a significant adverse effect of dienogest is depression; therefore, assessing for a history of mood disorders is recommended before prescribing the drug. Herein, we present the case of a patient with no history of psychiatric disorders who was diagnosed with dienogest-induced major depressive disorder. This case emphasizes the importance of close monitoring for negative mood changes in patients taking dienogest. PATIENT CONCERNS A 41-year-old woman underwent surgery for EM. Postoperatively, her gynecologist prescribed dienogest (2 mg/d) to control EM symptoms. Two months after the initiation of dienogest, she manifested insomnia almost daily, gradually became depressed, lost interest in all activities, had incessant cries, and repeatedly thought of death. She had no history of major physical or psychiatric disorders. DIAGNOSIS Major depressive disorder, single episode, severe. INTERVENTIONS A psychiatric consultation was recommended, an antidepressant was prescribed, and dienogest was discontinued. OUTCOMES Two weeks later, there was significant improvement in the symptoms, and after 4 weeks, she remained in a stable mood with no suicidal thoughts. She was followed up for 13 months with a maintenance dose of escitalopram (5 -10mg/d), until the psychiatrist recommended treatment discontinuation, with a confirmed state of remission. LESSONS This was a case of dienogest-induced depression in a patient with no history of mood disorders. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of the occurrence of severe depression in progestin users regardless of their previous history.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Min Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Kyung Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fruzzetti F, Fidecicchi T. Hormonal Contraception and Depression: Updated Evidence and Implications in Clinical Practice. Clin Drug Investig 2021; 40:1097-1106. [PMID: 32980990 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-020-00966-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hormonal contraceptives are used worldwide by more than 100 million women. Some studies have been published about the possible appearance of depressive symptoms when using hormonal contraceptives, but this link is still a matter of debate. The purpose of this review is to provide an update of the literature on this issue, and to investigate the possible explanations of this problem based on animal and human studies. The main pathway responsible for menstrual cycle-related mood changes is the γ-aminobutyric acid pathway, which is sensitive to changes in the levels of progesterone and of its metabolites, the neurosteroids. In particular, allopregnanolone is a potentiating neurosteroid with anxiolytic and anti-convulsant effects whose levels change during a normal menstrual cycle together with progesterone levels. Progestins have different effects on allopregnanolone, mainly owing to their diverse androgenicity. Moreover, they might affect brain structure and function, even though the meaning of these changes has yet to be clarified. It is important to define the groups of women in which negative mood disorders are more likely to occur. Adolescence is a critical period and this age-specific vulnerability is complex and likely bidirectional. Moreover, women with a history of mood affective disorders or premenstrual dysphoric syndrome are at a higher risk when taking contraceptives. In this review, we aim to provide clinicians with advice on how to approach these difficult situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franca Fruzzetti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pisa University Hospital of S. Chiara, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Via Roma 65, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Fidecicchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pisa University Hospital of S. Chiara, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Via Roma 65, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Caruso S, Cianci S, Cariola M, Fava V, Di Pasqua S, Cianci A. Improvement of Low Sexual Desire Due to Antiandrogenic Combined Oral Contraceptives After Switching to an Oral Contraceptive Containing 17β-Estradiol. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2017; 26:728-734. [PMID: 28323519 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2016.5801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of a combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing 17β-estradiol (E2) 1.5 mg and nomegestrol acetate 2.5 mg (NOMAC/E2) on the sexual health of women affected by low sexual desire due to COCs containing ethinylestradiol. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty-three women (age range 19-32) participated in the study. Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone (TT), and free androgen index (FAI) were measured. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) questionnaires were used to assess sexual function and distress, respectively. Hormonal levels were measured and questionnaires were administered before the women switched COC NOMAC/E2 usage (baseline) and at the 3-month (first) and 6-month (second) follow-ups. RESULTS SHBG reduction (p < 0.001), TT (p < 0.05), and FAI increases (p < 0.001) were observed during the first and second follow-ups with respect to baseline values. Sexual desire increased from baseline to the first and second follow-ups (p < 0.001). At baseline, the total FSFI score was 22 ± 1.5 and the FSDS score was 16.6 ± 1.3, both indicating sexual dysfunction with sexual distress. At the first follow-up, the total FSFI score and the FSDS score increased toward sexual health values, being 28.3 ± 1.6 and 12.1 ± 1.5, respectively (p < 0.001). At the second follow-up, the FSFI score had risen to 30.6 ± 1.3 (p < 0.001) and the FSDS score had dropped to 8.3 ± 1.4 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS COCs containing E2 are an innovation that could help women to not suffer from low sexual desire during hypoandrogenic COC usage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Caruso
- 1 Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic of the Policlinico Universitario , Catania, Italy .,2 Research Group for Sexology, University of Catania , Catania, Italy
| | - Stefano Cianci
- 1 Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic of the Policlinico Universitario , Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Cariola
- 1 Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic of the Policlinico Universitario , Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Fava
- 1 Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic of the Policlinico Universitario , Catania, Italy .,2 Research Group for Sexology, University of Catania , Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Pasqua
- 1 Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic of the Policlinico Universitario , Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Cianci
- 1 Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic of the Policlinico Universitario , Catania, Italy .,2 Research Group for Sexology, University of Catania , Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Schaffir J, Worly BL, Gur TL. Combined hormonal contraception and its effects on mood: a critical review. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2016; 21:347-55. [DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2016.1217327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Schaffir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brett L. Worly
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tamar L. Gur
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Giatti S, Melcangi RC, Pesaresi M. The other side of progestins: effects in the brain. J Mol Endocrinol 2016; 57:R109-26. [PMID: 27339142 DOI: 10.1530/jme-16-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Progestins are a broad class of progestational agents widely differing in their chemical structures and pharmacological properties. Despite emerging data suggest that progestins, besides their action as endometrial protection, can also have multiple nonreproductive functions, much remains to be discovered regarding the actions exerted by these molecules in the nervous system. Here, we report the role exerted by different progestins, currently used for contraception or in postmenopausal hormone replacement therapies, in regulating cognitive functions as well as social behavior and mood. We provide evidence that the effects and mechanisms underlying their actions are still confusing due to the use of different estrogens and progestins as well as different doses, duration of exposure, route of administration, baseline hormonal status and age of treated women. We also discuss the emerging issue concerning the relevant increase of these substances in the environment, able to deeply affect aquatic wildlife as well as to exert a possible influence in humans, which may be exposed to these compounds via contaminated drinking water and seafood. Finally, we report literature data showing the neurobiological action of progestins and in particular their importance during neurodegenerative events. This is extremely interesting, since some of the progestins currently used in clinical practice exert neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in the nervous system, opening new promising opportunities for the use of these molecules as therapeutic agents for trauma and neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesCenter of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesCenter of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Pesaresi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesCenter of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kim HB, Kwon BJ, Cho HJ, Kim JW, Chon JW, Do MH, Park SY, Kim SY, Maeng SH, Park YK, Park JH. Long-term Treatment with Oriental Medicinal Herb Artemisia princeps Alters Neuroplasticity in a Rat Model of Ovarian Hormone Deficiency. Exp Neurobiol 2015; 24:71-83. [PMID: 25792871 PMCID: PMC4363335 DOI: 10.5607/en.2015.24.1.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Revised: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisia princeps (AP) is a flowering perennial used as a traditional medicine and dietary supplement across East Asia. No study has yet assessed its effects on synaptic plasticity in hippocampus and much less in a model of ovarian hormone deficiency. We examined the influence of chronic oral AP ethanol extract treatment in ovariectomized rats on the induction of long-term depression in a representative synapse (CA3-CA1) of the hippocampus. Ovariectomized rats demonstrated lower trabecular mean bone mineral densities than sham, validating the establishment of pathology. Against this background of pathology, AP-treated ovariectomized rats exhibited attenuated long-term depression (LTD) in CA1 relative to water-treated controls as measured by increased field excitatory post-synaptic potentials (fEPSP) activation averages over the post-stimulation period. While pathological significance of long-term depression (LTD) in ovariectomized rats is conflicting, that AP treatment significantly affected its induction offers justification for further study of its influences on plasticity and its related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Bum Kim
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Byeong-Jae Kwon
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Hyun-Ji Cho
- Department of Medical Nutrition, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Ji-Won Kim
- Department of Medical Nutrition, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Jeong-Woo Chon
- Department of Medical Nutrition, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Moon-Ho Do
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 406-799, Korea
| | - Sang-Yong Park
- Department of Oriental Medicinal Materials and Processing, College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Sun-Yeou Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 406-799, Korea
| | - Sung-Ho Maeng
- Department of East-West Medicine, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Yoo-Kyoung Park
- Department of Medical Nutrition, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea. ; Research Institute of Medical Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| | - Ji-Ho Park
- Department of East-West Medicine, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea. ; Research Institute of Medical Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mendoza N, Lobo P, Lertxundi R, Correa M, Gonzalez E, Salamanca A, Sánchez-Borrego R. Extended regimens of combined hormonal contraception to reduce symptoms related to withdrawal bleeding and the hormone-free interval: a systematic review of randomised and observational studies. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2014; 19:321-39. [PMID: 24971489 DOI: 10.3109/13625187.2014.927423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether continuous and extended regimens (CRs/ERs) of combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) improve symptoms related to withdrawal bleeding or the hormone-free interval and to compare the efficacy, safety, and cost of CRs/ERs to those of conventional 28-day regimens. STUDY DESIGN A literature search of the PubMed database was conducted for randomised clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies published in any language between 2006 and 2013. RESULTS Sixteen RCTs and 14 observational studies evaluated issues related to our objectives. CRs/ERs, whose efficacy and safety were comparable to those described for conventional regimens, were preferred due to their improvement of symptoms related to withdrawal bleeding or the hormone-free interval and the lower costs resulting from the reduced incidence of these symptoms. CONCLUSION The contraceptive efficacy and safety of CR/ER use of CHCs is at least equal to that of 28-days conventional regimens, and this use may have some cost savings. CRs/ERs are recommended for women willing to take a CHC for treatment of symptoms related to withdrawal bleeding or the hormone-free interval.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Mendoza
- * Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Granada , Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gahr M, Freudenmann RW, Connemann BJ, Kölle MA, Schönfeldt-Lecuona C. Rapid relapse in depression following initialization of oral contraception with ethinyl estradiol and chlormadinone acetate. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2014; 36:230.e1-2. [PMID: 24287129 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2013.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Revised: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Female sexual hormones (estrogens and gestagens) may affect neurocognitive functioning and mood. Thus, the use of oral hormonal contraceptives (OHC) bears the risk of psychiatric adverse drug reactions such as depression and psychosis. However, the available empiric evidence regarding this connection is conflicting, and, moreover, female sex hormones seem to feature also mood-stabilizing and antidepressive effects. Hence, individual susceptibility factors and preparation-specific pharmacologic properties might play a pivotal role in the development of mood disturbances related to OHC. Single case reports provide empiric data for further systematic approaches. METHODS A clinical case is presented and discussed. RESULTS A 36-year-old female patient with recurrent major depressive disorder developed rapid relapse in depression after initialization of OHC with ethinyl estradiol 30 μg/chlormadinone acetate 2 mg. This OHC combination was described to particularly feature positive effects on depressive mood. CONCLUSIONS OHC may induce serious mood disturbances and should be administered with care, particularly in patients with affective disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Gahr
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Roland W Freudenmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Bernhard J Connemann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus A Kölle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Carlos Schönfeldt-Lecuona
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy III, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hadji P, Biskup J, Boekhoff J, Ziller M, Bonn M, Rovati L. Evaluation of efficacy, safety and effects on symptoms of androgenization of a generic oral contraceptive containing chlormadinone acetate 2 mg/ethinylestradiol 0.03 mg. Contraception 2012; 86:359-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2012.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Revised: 02/06/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
|
11
|
Hanjalic-Beck A, Schäfer WR, Deppert WR, Fischer L, Stein A, Seebacher L, von Gradowski AS, Stuckenschneider J, Zahradnik HP. Chlormadinone acetate suppresses prostaglandin biosynthesis in human endometrial explants. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:1017-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2012] [Revised: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
12
|
Porcu P, Mostallino MC, Sogliano C, Santoru F, Berretti R, Concas A. Long-term administration with levonorgestrel decreases allopregnanolone levels and alters GABA(A) receptor subunit expression and anxiety-like behavior. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2012; 102:366-72. [PMID: 22634062 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2012.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2012] [Revised: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Fluctuations in the concentrations of the neuroactive steroid allopregnanolone are thought to influence γ-amino-butyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptor gene expression and function. Long-term treatment with ethinyl estradiol (EE) plus levonorgestrel (LNG), two of the most widely used steroids in the hormonal contraceptive pill, decreases allopregnanolone levels in rat cerebral cortex and plasma, alters GABA(A) receptor expression and induces anxiety-like behavior. We evaluated which component of the hormonal contraceptive pill is responsible for the aforementioned changes. Female rats were injected subcutaneously (s.c.) with EE (0.030 mg) or LNG (0.125 mg) once a day for 4 weeks. Compared to the respective vehicle-treated control groups, EE decreased cerebral cortical levels of allopregnanolone, progesterone and pregnenolone by 76, 72 and 33%, respectively and hippocampal levels by 52, 56 and 50%, respectively. Likewise, LNG decreased cerebral cortical levels of allopregnanolone, progesterone and pregnenolone by 75, 68 and 33%, respectively, and hippocampal levels by 55, 65 and 60%, respectively. Administration of LNG, but not EE, increased the abundance of the γ2 subunit peptide in cerebral cortex and hippocampus by 38 and 59%, respectively. Further, LNG, but not EE, decreased the time spent and the number of entries into the open arms of the elevated plus maze by 56 and 43%, respectively, an index of anxiety-like behavior. These results suggest that alterations in GABA(A) receptor subunit expression and anxiety-like behavior induced by long-term treatment with combined EE/LNG appear to be caused by LNG. Given that both EE and LNG decrease allopregnanolone levels in a similar manner, these results further suggest that changes in allopregnanolone levels are not associated with GABA(A) receptor expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Porcu
- National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience, Section of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Böttcher B, Radenbach K, Wildt L, Hinney B. Hormonal contraception and depression: a survey of the present state of knowledge. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2012; 286:231-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-012-2298-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
14
|
POROMAA INGERSUNDSTRÖM, SEGEBLADH BIRGITTA. Adverse mood symptoms with oral contraceptives. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2012; 91:420-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0412.2011.01333.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - BIRGITTA SEGEBLADH
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Göretzlehner G, Waldmann-Rex S, Schramm GAK. Extended cycles with the combined oral contraceptive chlormadinone acetate 2 mg/ethinylestradiol 0.03 mg: pooled analysis of data from three large-scale, non-interventional, observational studies. Clin Drug Investig 2011; 31:269-77. [PMID: 21250761 DOI: 10.2165/11586720-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The prescribing of extended regimens of oral contraceptives (OCs) is increasing in routine gynaecological practice as a means of reducing the number of annual menstrual bleeds. Typically, this involves taking one pill per day for, say, 84 days continuously (4×21 days), followed by a 7-day pill-free interval. Low-dose OCs are suitable for extended use, and many gynaecologists in Germany prescribe the combination of chlormadinone acetate 2 mg/ethinylestradiol 0.03 mg (CMA 2 mg/EE 0.03 mg). The aim of the current study was to assess the risks and benefits of CMA 2 mg/EE 0.03 mg in extended regimens, using pooled data from observational studies. METHODS This pooled analysis of three large-scale, non-interventional, observational studies assessed the results in women receiving Belara® (CMA 2 mg/EE 0.03 mg) according to an extended regimen compared with conventional regimens documented in the summary of product characteristics. RESULTS A total of 625 women were identified as extended-regimen users (mean±SD age 24.9±9.0 years). Extended-cycle use was associated with decreases in skin problems, dysmenorrhoea symptoms (as shown by reductions in analgesic use; absence from school, university, or work; and restrictions in leisure and sporting activities), cycle-dependent symptoms (e.g. headache/migraine, breast tenderness), withdrawal bleeding, bleeding duration and reduced libido. Mean bodyweight remained almost constant over 6 months. Only nine adverse drug reactions, none severe, were reported in eight women (1.3%). CONCLUSION This pooled analysis confirms that extended regimens of CMA 2 mg/EE 0.03 mg reduce cycle-related complaints and are very well tolerated.
Collapse
|
16
|
Heskamp MLS, Schramm GA. Efficacy of the low-dose combined oral contraceptive chlormadinone acetate/ethinylestradiol: physical and emotional benefits. Contraception 2010; 81:49-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2009.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2008] [Revised: 05/19/2009] [Accepted: 06/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
17
|
Coromina Sadurni M, Rodie JU, de Montagut LM, Sánchez Autet M. The use of oral contraceptives as a prevention of recurrent premenstrual psychosis. Psychiatry Res 2009; 170:290-1. [PMID: 19836081 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2009.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2008] [Revised: 02/10/2009] [Accepted: 02/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Premenstrual psychosis is a rare and not formally recognized disorder (DSM-IVR, ICD-10). The literature mainly consists of clinical cases. There have been preliminary reports of improvement in such cases after administration of oral contraceptives. We present a case of premenstrual psychosis in which hormonal treatment was effective in preventing symptomatic relapses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Coromina Sadurni
- Sant Joan de Déu-Serveis de Salut Mental, Fundació Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|