PTCE: The Basics of Medications - Reproductive Agents & Contraceptives

The table below includes the most common USAN stem name used for reproductive agents. The USAN stem “estr-” indicates that the pharmaceutical agent contains the hormone estrogen. Recall this USAN stem name when identifying hormones used in reproductive agents.
Tip: Oral contraceptives come in quantities of 21 or 28 tablets.Typically, packages that have 21 tablets contain 21 active tablets. Packages that have 28 tablets contain 21 active tablets and 7 placebo tablets. The manufacturer adds the 7 placebo tablets so the consumer remembers to start a new pack after 28 days.

Table: USAN Stem for Reproductive Agents

Reproductive agents are most commonly associated with hormone therapy (see table below). Women are prescribed agents that contain a form of progestin (e.g., medroxyprogesterone) and estrogen (e.g., estradiol) or a combination of both. The progestins are used to treat conditions such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or an overgrowth of the uterus lining. Estrogens, on the other hand, are typically prescribed to regulate hormonal imbalances. Estrogens can be used to treat symptoms of menopause in the treatment of certain breast cancers. Testosterone is prescribed to men to treat symptoms of low testosterone. Typical side effects for reproductive agents include headaches, mood disorders, anxiety, fluid retention, weight gain, and menstrual irregularities.

Table: Reproductive Agents

Common Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives contain varying amounts of estrogen and progestin. Use table below to familiarize yourself with these commonly prescribed agents.

Table: Common Oral Contraceptives

Emergency Contraceptives

Emergency contraception is a method of birth control that is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Often called the morning after pill, an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) must be taken within a designated period of time following intercourse. This form of contraception works by preventing fertilization due to the inhibition of ovulation.
There are two forms of ECPs available:
- Ella (ulipristal acetate): One pill is taken within 5 days after unprotected sex.
- Plan B One-Step, Next Choice One-Dose, New Day, My Way (levonorgestrel): One pill is taken within 3 days after unprotected sex.