Question 1

What is the Meaning of 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

Accepted Answer

17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate, often abbreviated as 17P or 17-OHPC, is a synthetic progestin, a derivative of the naturally occurring steroid hormone 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, modified with a caproate ester for prolonged action.

Question 2

What is the Context of 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

Accepted Answer

This pharmaceutical agent functions within the endocrine system as a long-acting progestational compound, primarily influencing reproductive physiology. It is specifically utilized in obstetrics to manage certain high-risk pregnancy conditions where endogenous progesterone support may be insufficient for maintaining uterine quiescence.

Question 3

What is the Significance of 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

Accepted Answer

The clinical importance of 17-OHPC lies in its established role in preventing recurrent spontaneous preterm birth, a significant contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality globally. Its judicious application can extend gestational duration, thereby improving health outcomes for infants born to mothers with a history of early deliveries.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

Accepted Answer

17-OHPC exerts its therapeutic effects by binding to progesterone receptors within target tissues, notably the uterine myometrium. This interaction promotes uterine quiescence by reducing smooth muscle contractility and prostaglandin synthesis, maintaining the gravid uterus in a state conducive to continued gestation.

Question 5

What is the Application of 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

Accepted Answer

In clinical practice, 17-OHPC is typically administered as a weekly intramuscular injection, commencing between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation and continuing until 36 weeks. This regimen is reserved for singleton pregnancies in women with a documented history of spontaneous preterm birth, as per established clinical guidelines.

Question 6

What is the Metric of 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

Accepted Answer

The effectiveness of 17-OHPC therapy is primarily assessed through clinical observation of gestational progress and the ultimate reduction in the incidence of recurrent preterm birth. While serum levels are not routinely monitored for therapeutic efficacy, successful outcomes are measured by an increased gestational age at delivery and improved neonatal health indicators.

Question 7

What is the Risk of 17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

Accepted Answer

Potential adverse effects associated with 17-OHPC include localized injection site reactions, such as pain or swelling, and less commonly, nausea or diarrhea. More serious, though infrequent, risks encompass venous thromboembolism, gestational diabetes, and depressive symptoms, necessitating careful patient selection and ongoing clinical oversight.

17-Alpha Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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