Abstract

Dydrogesterone (Duphaston - Crookes) is a congener of progesterone with some but not all of the effects of progesterone. It is offered for oral use in preventing abortion and in treating menstrual disorders. The drug (formerly called isopregnenone) exhibits the peripheral (uterine) effects of progesterone, without central effects such as pituitary inhibition or rise in basal body temperature characteristic of other progestogens. Since it does not inhibit pituitary function, it cannot be used for contraception.