g. Progesterone (Luteogan). Progesterone is used in the treatment of
amenorrhea and functional uterine bleeding. For the side effects associated with this
agent, you should read paragraph 8-7.
8-14. SPECIFIC ANDROGEN AGENTS
a. Danazol (Danocrine). Danazol is used in the treatment of endometriosis.
(Endometriosis is a condition in which there is uncontrolled growth of uterine
endometrium.) Side effects associated with danazol include increased oiliness of the
hair or skin, acne, decreased breast size, and unnatural hair growth. This product is
available in capsule form.
b. Fluoxymesterone (Halotestin). Fluoxymesterone is used as an androgen
hormonal supplement. Side effects associated with this agent include closing of the
epiphyseal closures, hypercalcemia, and edema. This product should not be given to
boys who are in puberty because of its effect on the epiphyseal closures.
Fluoxymesterone is available in tablet form.
c. Methyltestosterone. Methyltestosterone is used as an androgen
replacement. Side effects associated with this product include hypercalcemia, edema,
and development of male secondary sexual characteristics (if used in women).
Methyltestosterone is supplied in oral, buccal, or sublingual tablets.
Section IV. CONTRACEPTION
8-15. INTRODUCTION
For years people have been searching for a truly safe and effective
contraceptive. Both physical and chemical means have been tried to prevent the
process of fertilization. Some chemical means have been found which prevent
contraception; however, this means also highly undesirable side effects. The topic of
contraception will be presented and discussed in this section. Specifically, the methods
of contraception will be examined in relation to their advantages and disadvantages.
8-16. METHODS OF CONTRACEPTION
Immediately below, some methods of contraception are discussed. You are
probably familiar with most of these methods.
a. Abstinence. Abstinence, in this sense, means that one refrains from
engaging in sexual intercourse. Theoretically, this means that abstinence is 100
percent effective in preventing pregnancy. However, intercourse does not have to occur
in order for fertilization of the egg to occur. If sperm are deposited in one way or
another in or around the vagina, it is possible that sperm could move themselves up the
vaginal canal and eventually fertilize the egg.
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