Effects of Continuous Levonorgestrel Treatment (Subcutaneous Capsules) on the Lipoprotein and Carbohydrate Metabolism in Fertile Women

Abstract

The lipoprotein and carbohydrate metabolism was studied during contraceptive treatment with levonorgestrel, released at a low rate (70 ug/day) from subcutaneous capsules, in five women who were treated for 180–403 days. The serum cholesterol concentration decreased slightly but significantly during treatment. This was attributable to a tendency to a reduction of cholesterol in high-density lipoproteins. The treatment did not affect the lipoprotein lipase activity in adipose tissue. The elimination rates of intravenously injected fat and glucose were unchanged, as were the serum insulin concentrations.

Thus, in this pilot study the concentration and composition of the serum lipoproteins altered to only a minor extent during treatment with levonorgestrel in a dose of 70 ug/day.