Affiliation:
1. University Hospital Vienna, Department for Gynaecological Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, A-1090 Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, Austria,
Abstract
The problems that arise in connection with the menopause have been treated for many years with various hormone-replacement therapy formulations. The spironolactone derivative drospirenone is a novel progestin that, in combination with estradiol, provides a new low-dose, continuous, combined hormone therapy with a broad and safe activity profile. Through its antiandrogenic and antimineralocorticoid properties, drospirenone acts specifically against menopausal symptoms, provides protection of the endometrium, does not counteract the effect of estradiol on bone metabolism and has a beneficial effect on body weight and lipid metabolism. Its effect on blood pressure is particularly relevant: drospirenone blocks the aldosterone receptor and thus has a regulating effect on the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system and so promotes enhanced sodium/water excretion.