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Oral contraceptives, abbreviated OCPs, also known as birth control pills, are medications taken by mouth for the purpose of birth control. The introduction of the birth control pill ("the Pill") in 1960 revolutionized the options for contraception, sparking vibrant discussion in the scientific and social science literature and in the media.
The dexamethasone suppression test (DST) is used to assess adrenal gland function by measuring how cortisol levels change in response to oral doses or an injection of dexamethasone. [1] It is typically used to diagnose Cushing's syndrome .
Two dexamethasone suppression tests (DSTs) are generally used, the overnight test and the 48 hour test. [8] For both tests, a plasma cortisol level above 50 nmol/L is indicative of Cushing's disease. [8] However, 3–8% of patients with Cushing's disease will test negative due to a retention of dexamethasone suppression abilities. [8]
Birth control pills are the most commonly prescribed hormonal treatment for hirsutism, as they prevent ovulation and decrease androgen production by the ovaries. Additionally, estrogen in the pills stimulates the liver to produce more of a protein that binds to androgens and reduces their activity.
MPA is the most widely used progestin in menopausal hormone therapy and in progestogen-only birth control. [17] [18] DMPA is approved for use as a form of long-acting birth control in more than 100 countries. [19] [20] In 2022, it was the 276th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 800,000 prescriptions. [21] [22]
Dexamethasone is a fluorinated glucocorticoid medication [10] used to treat rheumatic problems, a number of skin diseases, severe allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), croup, brain swelling, eye pain following eye surgery, superior vena cava syndrome (a complication of some forms of cancer), [11] and along with antibiotics in tuberculosis. [10]
Birth control, also known as contraception, anticonception, and fertility control, is the use of methods or devices to prevent pregnancy. [1] [2] Birth control has been used since ancient times, but effective and safe methods of birth control only became available in the 20th century. [3]
Excess estrogen, such as from birth control pills, appears to increase cholesterol levels in bile and decrease gallbladder movement, which can lead to gallstones. [152] Progestins found in certain formulations of oral contraceptive pills can limit the effectiveness of weight training to increase muscle mass. [ 153 ]