Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEMULEN 1 35 21 versus ENOVID E.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEMULEN 1 35 21 versus ENOVID E.
DEMULEN 1/35-21 vs ENOVID-E
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Combination oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol (estrogen) and ethynodiol diacetate (progestin). Inhibits gonadotropin secretion (FSH, LH) via negative feedback on hypothalamic-pituitary axis, suppressing ovulation. Additionally, thickens cervical mucus and alters endometrial receptivity.
Combination estrogen-progestin contraceptive. Suppresses gonadotropin release, inhibits ovulation, increases cervical mucus viscosity, and alters endometrial morphology.
One tablet orally once daily for 21 days, followed by 7 days off. Each tablet contains 1 mg ethynodiol diacetate and 35 mcg ethinyl estradiol.
5 mg orally once daily for 20 days starting on day 5 of menstrual cycle
None Documented
None Documented
Ethinyl estradiol: 13±3 hours (terminal); norethindrone: 8±3 hours. Steady-state achieved after ~5 days.
Norethynodrel: 5-10 hours; mestranol: 2-5 hours (metabolized to ethinyl estradiol, half-life 10-20 hours). Steady-state reached in 5-7 days.
Renal (primarily as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates): ~60%; fecal: ~40%
Renal (50-60% as metabolites, <1% unchanged); fecal (40-50%)
Category C
Category C
Oral Contraceptive
Oral Contraceptive