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Oral Conjugated Estrogens

Meaning

Oral Conjugated Estrogens refer to a pharmaceutical preparation containing a mixture of various estrogen sulfates, primarily estrone sulfate, derived historically from the urine of pregnant mares or synthesized chemically. Administered via the oral route, these compounds are readily absorbed and metabolized, serving as a form of hormone replacement therapy to alleviate menopausal symptoms and prevent osteoporosis. Due to the first-pass effect through the liver, oral administration leads to a specific metabolic profile, including increased synthesis of various hepatic proteins, which differs significantly from transdermal or bioidentical estrogen administration. Clinical decisions regarding their use require careful consideration of this unique metabolic impact.