Desogestrel

Desogestrel is a third-generation progestin. Desogestrel itself is a prodrug and is metabolized in the liver into its active metabolite, etonogestrel. Etonogestrel acts on progesterone receptors within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, reducing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and suppressing follicular maturation. It also reduces luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, thereby preventing ovulation. In addition, etonogestrel alters cervical mucus, making it thicker and more difficult to penetrate, which prevents sperm from entering the cervix and fallopian tubes. It also suppresses endometrial proliferation, making the uterine lining less suitable for implantation.