Medical Female Steroids 17α - Hydroxyprogesterone 17 - OHP Without Side Effects

What is 17α-Hydroxyprogesterone?

17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) is an endogenous progestogen as well as chemical intermediate in the biosynthesis of other steroid hormones, including the corticosteroids and the androgens and the estrogens.

It is derived from progesterone via 17-hydroxylase, a P450c17 enzyme, or from 17-hydroxypregnenolone via 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isomerase.

17-OHP increases in the third trimester of pregnancy primarily due to fetal adrenal production.

This steroid is primarily produced in the adrenal glands and to some degree in the gonads, specifically the corpus luteum of the ovary. Normal levels are 3-90 ng/dl in children, and in women, 20-100 ng/dl prior to ovulation, and 100-500 ng/dl during theluteal phase.

Application

Reducing the risk of delivering a baby too early (preterm birth). Hydroxyprogesterone should only be used by women who are pregnant with one baby and have had a preterm delivery of one baby in the past.

Hydroxyprogesterone is a synthetic hormone (progestin). How it works to reduce the risk of recurrent preterm birth is not known.

Uses

This medication is used in women who are pregnant with a single baby, and who have delivered a baby too early (preterm) in the past. It is used to help lower the risk of having a preterm baby again. Hydroxyprogesterone is a man-made form of a female hormone (progestin). It is not known how it works to prevent preterm births.

This medication is not intended to prevent preterm birth in women pregnant with more than one baby (such as twins, triplets). It is also not intended to stop active preterm labor.

Side Effects

Pain, swelling, itching, bruising, or a lump at the injection site may occur. Nausea or diarrhea may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: dark urine, mental/mood changes (such as depression, nervousness), persistent nausea/vomiting,stomach / abdominal pain, unusual vaginal bleeding, yellowing eyes / skin.