What is the Origin of Transdermal Progesterone Cream?

The use of progesterone creams gained significant popularity in the late 20th century as a compounding pharmacy option, driven by the desire for bioidentical hormone formulations and alternative delivery methods following large-scale clinical trial findings on oral progestins. It is rooted in the principle of percutaneous absorption, leveraging the lipophilic nature of steroid hormones to penetrate the stratum corneum. The efficacy and systemic absorption of various compounded creams remain an area of ongoing clinical discussion.

What is the Mechanism of Transdermal Progesterone Cream?

The mechanism relies on passive diffusion: the highly lipid-soluble progesterone molecule crosses the skin's barrier layer and enters the underlying dermal capillaries. Once absorbed, it binds to progesterone receptors (PR-A and PR-B) in target cells throughout the body, including the endometrium, brain, and breast. In the uterus, its primary action is to counteract the proliferative effects of estrogen, inducing secretory changes in the endometrium to prevent hyperplasia.

Transdermal Progesterone Cream ∞ Area

Transdermal Progesterone Cream

Meaning

Transdermal Progesterone Cream is a topical formulation containing bioidentical progesterone that is designed to be absorbed through the skin and into the systemic circulation or local tissues. This delivery method is often employed in Hormone Replacement Therapy to provide progesterone, particularly for endometrial protection in women using estrogen, or for its local effects on skin and breast tissue. The transdermal route is clinically favored for avoiding the extensive first-pass liver metabolism associated with oral administration.