Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
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 .
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.
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 ]
The risk of VTE with estradiol/nomegestrol acetate birth control pills is under study. [11] Incidence of irregular vaginal bleeding may be higher with estradiol-containing birth control pills in relation to the fact that estradiol is a weaker estrogen than ethinylestradiol in the endometrium. [3]
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.
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]
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]
Puberty blockers (also called puberty inhibitors or hormone blockers) are medicines used to postpone puberty in children. The most commonly used puberty blockers are gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, which suppress the natural production of sex hormones, such as androgens (e.g. testosterone) and estrogens (e.g. estradiol).