Chapters authored
Non-polymeric Microspheres for the Therapeutic Use of Estrogens: An Innovative Technology
Non-polymeric microspheres are stable-shaped particles constituted by crystalline organic compounds. This technology allows controlled release of parental products that has its prime value on estrogen therapy. The structure is a non-polymeric crystalline microsphere that uses a low solubility fatty acid, cholesterol as a carrier. Cholesterol is a waxy lipid, a substance that is insoluble in water and has been recognized as safe as excipient by FDA for the manufacturing of drugs. Cholesterol is a lipid present in the cell membrane and subcellular organelles of tissues and serves as the building block for all steroid hormones including cortisol, aldosterone, estrogen, and testosterone; therefore, this fatty acid provides better biocompatibility than polymers. The use of cholesterol as a low solubility carrier was used to develop a first of its kind, parental HT product for the management of menopausal symptoms carrying estrogen microspheres in an aqueous suspension, which would allow an extended estrogen release maintaining plasmatic therapeutic concentrations. Estradiol doses would be up to 30 times lower than that provided by oral and transdermal routes fulfilling current recommendations regarding the use of a low dose and the nonoral route. Both intramuscular monthly administered formulations of E/P non-polymeric microspheres had favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profiles, suggesting this route as an interesting, novel, and suitable way of treating menopause-related symptoms.
Part of the book: Estrogen
Quality of Life and Menopause
Since the middle of twentieth century, the concept of Quality of Life (QoL) has been a point of interest for many investigators and clinicians for different health and physiological issues. Menopause has not been an exemption of this, due to the increase of the life expectation, the importance of Women’s Health and the view of this period of life as important as the reproductive one. Many of us work, trying to offer these women with treatments, health solutions, and psychological tools to embrace and enjoy this new chapter in her life. In this chapter, we present a review of the QoL studies on this period and the new trends on treatments and help for these women on health problems, their mental and sexual well-being.
Part of the book: Quality of Life