Research progress of the third-generation progesterone etonogestrel
Etonogestrel is one of the third-generation progestin drugs,which has an irreplaceable role in reproductive contraception.Due to the strong pharmacological activity and weak androgenic effect,it is one of the preferred active drugs for long-acting reversible contraceptive products.Etonogestrel entered the international market as early as 1998 and has been widely used in more than 40 countries;however,its products were not introduced into China until 2012.This article reviews the physicochemical properties,mechanism of action,pharmacokinetics and preparation research progress of etonogestrel.It is hoped to provide a reference and lay a theoretical foundation for further development of etonogestrel preparations.