The rationale for a new triphasic contraceptive

Inhibition of ovulation by a triphasic gestodene-containing oral contraceptive

“…Introduction of the triphasic principle allowed a dose reduction of older generation progestageus without sacrificing cycle control [6]. Dose reduction was aimed at lowering possible side-effects caused by the synthetic steroids administered.…”

New regimens with combined oral contraceptive pills – moving away from traditional 21/7 cycles

“…The first modification to dosing was, thus, a decrease in the oestrogen dose. This occurred fairly quickly: COCs with 30 mg ethinylestradiol (EE) were released in the early 1970s 6 . Attempts were also made to reduce the overall dose of steroids being consumed by developing phasic pills 6,7 .…”

“…This occurred fairly quickly: COCs with 30 mg ethinylestradiol (EE) were released in the early 1970s 6 . Attempts were also made to reduce the overall dose of steroids being consumed by developing phasic pills 6,7 . At the same time, efforts were made to reduce progestogen-influenced side effects and androgenic effects on lipid and glucose metabolism 8 .…”

Pharmacology of progestogens used in oral contraceptives: An historical review to contemporary prescribing

“…These effects were mainly arterial, and it therefore became the aim to reduce progestogen content of oral contraceptives as well as the oestrogen. While maintaining cycle control, this was possible by introducing the biphasic and triphasic preparations, where the progestogen dose increases from 50 µg per day to 125 µg per day 30 . The triphasic preparation resulted in a 39% reduction in the dose of levonorgestrel ingested each month.…”