The effect of hormonal drugs on the body. The influence of hormonal drugs on men's health

The term “hormones” evokes in most modern women negative associations with overweight, mustachioed victims of the use of these substances. Hormone therapy has a powerful effect on the human body and this effect can be both positive and negative. But for many people, hormonal medications can significantly improve the quality of life and prolong it. This applies to patients diabetes mellitus, bronchial asthma, diseases thyroid gland.

Are hormonal pills harmful?

Influence various hormones on the body is not the same, so the effect is different hormonal drugs, both positive and negative, will be different. Positive or harmful influence on the body after use hormone therapy depends on the type of hormone in the drug, its dosage, duration and frequency of use.

Hormonal drugs, like almost any medicines, have a certain negative influence on the body. But, as a rule, this negative effect is much less than that brought positive result in the treatment of a specific disease. There are a number of diseases for which hormonal therapy is the only treatment method.

Why are hormonal drugs harmful?

With the development of medicine and the pharmaceutical industry, modern hormonal drugs differ significantly from those produced in the last century. If hormonal therapy 20 years ago caused a lot of side effects in the form of swelling, cellulite, excess hair, excess weight, That similar effect from modern drugs kept to a minimum. The side effects of hormonal drugs will be minimal only if they are selected correctly, based on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body.

Which possible harm Can hormonal medications cause this? This information is contained in the instructions for use of a particular drug. A separate section “Side Effects” contains the entire list of side effects that are possible, but not required. Of these, the most common are metabolic disorders, excessive hair growth, weight gain, skin reactions, disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract.

Harm and benefits of hormonal contraceptives

For hormonal therapy in women, oral contraceptives are usually used, which provide contraceptive effect, A therapeutic effect is a positive side effect. Disputes about the dangers and benefits of hormones have been ongoing for as long as these drugs have existed.

There are representatives of medicine, traditional and non-traditional areas, who categorically do not approve of the use of hormonal drugs due to the irreparable harm they cause to a woman’s body. The drugs suppress the natural function of the ovaries, disrupt natural hormonal levels and have dangerous side effects.

Research into the use of hormonal drugs suggests that all of the above does not apply to modern drugs. They do not contain such high concentrations hormones, like the first generation drugs that could cause serious harm the body and have a gentle effect on hormonal levels due to microdoses of the hormone and high-quality cleansing of the drug.

Taking OK additionally has the following effects:

The risk of developing inflammatory and tumor lesions of the mammary glands and uterus is significantly reduced;

Improves the condition of hair and skin;

The likelihood of mastopathy and heart and vascular diseases is reduced;

Are relieved manifestations of PMS, the duration of menstruation decreases and they become less painful;

The positive effect of prescribing hormonal contraceptives is much higher than the negative effect.

If a woman has no contraindications to taking hormonal drugs, an accurate diagnosis is made and an individually selected dosage is prescribed, the harm of hormonal drugs is practically reduced to zero.

In the first three months of prescribing the drug, when the body gets used to it, side effects such as headache, nausea, dizziness, headache, breast engorgement, sudden changes mood, decreased sexual desire.

The word “hormones” evokes fear in 60% of modern women. This fact is not surprising: hormone therapy is indeed quite serious and often not harmless therapeutic event. The dangers of hormonal drugs are often talked about a lot, while their benefits are rarely remembered. But few people think that hormonal therapy can significantly improve a person’s quality of life, and sometimes even support this very life (for diabetes, thyroid diseases, bronchial asthma, etc.).

Are hormonal pills harmful?

Just as hormones differ from hormones, so do hormonal agents differ in the degree of positive and negative influence on the body. The balance of harm and benefit of hormonal drugs is determined by the type of hormone, its concentration, frequency, duration and method of application.

Yes, of course, hormonal drugs cause certain harm to the body. But, as a rule, they do not cause more damage to health than the disease for which this drug is used. Today there are diseases that cannot be treated without hormones.

Why are hormonal drugs harmful?

It is necessary to clearly understand that hormonal drugs of the 21st century cannot be compared with hormonal drugs of the 20th century. If our mothers have the phrase “ hormonal treatment» associated with overweight, swelling, cellulite, unnatural hair growth, then in our time such side effects are minimized. But it is important to understand that the harm from using a hormonal drug will be minimal only if it is selected correctly.

So, why are hormonal drugs harmful? To answer this question, you just need to read the instructions for use for a specific product. In the “Side Effects” section, as a rule, the entire range of possible (but not obligatory) side effects is indicated, among them the classic ones: metabolic disorders, weight gain, excessive hair growth, skin rashes, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract and more.

Harm and benefits of hormonal contraceptives

Hormonal therapy in women most often involves treatment with oral contraceptives (OCs), the main purpose of which is contraception, and therapeutic effect achieved as a positive side effect. Discussions about the benefits and harms of hormonal contraceptives have been ongoing for many years.

Some theorists and practitioners of medicine, including alternative medicine, are categorically against the use of medical practice hormonal contraceptives, as they cause irreparable harm female body in the form of: suppression of ovarian function, changes in the natural background of a woman, dangerous side effects.

Another part of the experts claims, and numerous scientific research confirm that everything written above has nothing to do with modern OK. Huge doses of hormones contained in the first generations of hormonal preparations caused serious harm to the female body. Improved new generation OKs are different soft action on hormonal levels due to maximum purification and minimal quantitative hormone content. While taking OK:

the risk of developing inflammatory and oncological diseases uterus and mammary glands;
are eliminated cosmetic problems, the condition of the skin and hair improves;
the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases and mastopathy is reduced;
the course of PMS is alleviated, the duration and pain of menstruation is reduced.

The benefit-risk ratio when taking hormonal contraceptive pills is clearly positive.

And on frequently asked question women: “Why are hormonal pills harmful?” the following answer can be given: in the absence of contraindications, provided correct setting diagnosis and correct selection of the drug - practically nothing. During the first three months of use (the period of adaptation to the drug), side effects are possible: nausea, headaches and dizziness, engorgement of the mammary glands, mood swings, decreased sexual desire.

For treatment wide range diseases, various hormonal drugs are very often used, which, in addition to high efficiency, have a number of side effects.

If used incorrectly, they can be very dangerous and can also aggravate the patient's condition.

Harm of hormonal drugs: truth or myth^

Hormones are products of internal secretion that are produced by special glands or individual cells, released into the blood and distributed throughout the body, causing a certain biological effect.

In a healthy person, hormones are continuously produced by the endocrine glands. If a malfunction occurs in the body, synthetic or natural analogues come to the rescue.

Why you shouldn’t be afraid of hormones: benefits and harms

Treatment with hormones has been used in medicine for more than a century, but people still treat it with fear and mistrust. Despite the fact that the use of drugs containing hormones can reverse the course of a serious illness and even save lives, many consider them harmful and dangerous.

Patients of endocrinologists are often panicky about the word “hormones” and unreasonably refuse to take hormonal medications, fearing side effects such as excess weight gain and hair growth on the face and body. Such side effects actually occurred during treatment with first-generation drugs, since they were of low quality and contained too much large doses hormones.

But all these problems are a thing of the past - pharmacological production does not stand still and is constantly developing and improving. Modern medicines are becoming increasingly better and safer.

Endocrinologists, in accordance with the test results, select the optimal dose and regimen for taking the hormonal drug, which imitates the function of the gland as in a healthy person. This allows you to achieve compensation for the disease, avoid complications and ensure wellness patient.

Today, hormonal preparations are produced, both natural (having a structure similar to natural hormones) and synthetic (having artificial origin, but similar impact). Depending on their origin, they are divided into several types:

Animals (derived from their glands);
Vegetable;
Synthetic (similar in composition to natural ones);
Synthetic (not similar to natural ones).

Hormonal therapy has three directions:

Stimulating - prescribed to activate the glands. Such treatment is always strictly limited in time or applied in intermittent courses.
Blocking - necessary when too active work glands or when unwanted tumors are detected. Most often used in conjunction with radiation or surgery.
Replacement - required for diseases that inhibit the production of hormones. This type Treatment is often prescribed for life, since it does not affect the cause of the disease.

The most common misconceptions about hormone therapy

Truths and myths about the dangers of hormones

Myth-1: Hormonal drugs are prescribed only as contraceptives

In fact, these drugs effectively fight many pathologies: diabetes, hypothyroidism, skin diseases, infertility, cancer and other ailments.

Myth-2: If your health improves, you can stop taking hormones

This misconception is often countered long work doctors and provokes a rapid return of the disease. Any changes to the dosage schedule must be agreed with your doctor.

Myth-3: Hormone therapy is prescribed as a last resort in the treatment of serious illnesses

IN modern pharmacology There are many drugs of this composition to get rid of diseases that do not pose a threat to the patient’s life, for example, from acne in teenagers or erectile dysfunction in men.

Myth-4: During pregnancy, taking any hormones is contraindicated.

In fact, expectant mothers are prescribed such medications quite often, and stopping them on their own can lead to serious consequences. For example, when carrying out tocolytic measures or with hypofunction of the thyroid gland (replacement therapy).

Myth-5: When replacement therapy hormones accumulate in tissues

This opinion is also incorrect. A correctly calculated dosage does not allow an excess of these substances in the body. But in any case, they are easily destroyed and cannot remain in the blood for long.

Myth-6: Hormones can be replaced with other medications

If a deficiency of a certain hormone is diagnosed, then it is this hormone that needs to be taken to restore health. Some plant extracts have a similar effect, but they cannot fully replace endocrinological drugs. Moreover, their long-term exposure undesirable due to the risk of allergic reactions.

Myth-7: Hormones make you fat

Excessive fatness does not arise from hormones, but from hormonal imbalance and metabolic disorders, which result in nutrients begin to be absorbed by the body incorrectly.

Myth-8: In spring, the level of sex hormones increases

Human endocrine functions are subject to both seasonal and daily cycles. Some hormones are activated at night, others during the day, some during the cold season, others during the warm season.

According to scientists, the level of human sex hormones does not have seasonal fluctuations, however, with increasing daylight hours, the production of GnRH, a hormone with an antidepressant effect, increases in the body. It is he who can evoke feelings of love and euphoria.

Myth-9: Hormonal imbalance young people are not in danger

Violation hormonal balance in the body can occur at any age. The reasons are different: stress and excessive loads, previous diseases, unhealthy lifestyle, taking the wrong medications, genetic problems and much more.

Myth-10: Adrenaline is a “good” hormone, its sharp release benefits a person

Check your body fat %, BMI and other important parameters

Hormones cannot be good or bad - each is useful in its own time. The release of adrenaline really stimulates the body, allowing it to cope faster. stressful situation. However, the feeling of a surge of energy is replaced by a state nervous exhaustion and weaknesses, because adrenaline directly affects nervous system, sharply bringing it into combat readiness, which then necessarily causes a “rollback”.

Suffering and cardiovascular system: rising blood pressure, the pulse quickens, and there is a risk of vascular overload. That is why frequent stress, accompanied by an increase in adrenaline in the blood, can lead to a stroke or cardiac arrest.

What are the types of hormonal drugs?

According to the method of action, hormonal drugs are divided into:

Steroids: act on sex hormones and substances produced by the adrenal glands;
Amine: thyroxine and adrenaline;
Peptides: insulin and oxytocin.

Steroid drugs are the most widely used in pharmacology: they are used to treat serious illnesses and HIV infections. They are also popular among bodybuilders: for example, Oxandrolone and Oxymethalone are most often used to give the body definition and burn subcutaneous fat, and Stanozolol and Methane are used to gain weight. muscle mass.

In both cases healthy people the drugs cause irreparable harm, so it is not recommended to take them without indications. AAS are based on the hormone testosterone, and for women they are most dangerous: with long-term use, they may develop primary male sexual characteristics (virilization), and the most common side effect is infertility.

What side effects can occur from taking hormones?

Most often, side effects of hormonal drugs appear in the first two weeks after starting treatment in the form of the following ailments:

Dizziness and nausea;
Sweating;
Shortness of breath, lack of air;
Tides;
Candidiasis;
Drowsiness;
Deterioration of blood composition;
Virilization (when women take steroids);
Hypertension;
Intestinal dysfunction.

Very in rare cases long-term use“hormones” or their abuse can cause the development of cancer. To avoid this, you need to periodically undergo tests and do liver tests to monitor your health.

Side effects of hormonal drugs in women: what to watch out for ^

Side effects of hormonal contraceptives

When choosing hormonal method For contraception, it is important to take into account all the features of a woman’s hormonal status. Find out which hormone levels predominate in the body: estrogen or progesterone, whether there is hyperandrogenism ( higher level male sex hormones), which are concomitant diseases etc..

This method of contraception is used by women quite often, because considered one of the most effective. In most cases, no negative reactions occur, however, there are side effects of birth control pills that can occur if taken for a long time or incorrectly in violation of the instructions:

Arterial hypertension;
Anemia;
Acute renal failure;
Porphyria;
Hearing loss;
Thromboembolism.

Most popular birth control pills considered: Claira, Regulon, Jess, Tri-regol. On the contrary, Duphaston is most often used to treat infertility.

Microdosed hormone pills

Side effects of hormonal ointments

Most often, such ointments are used to treat skin diseases: dermatitis, vitiligo, psoriasis, lichen, as well as allergies with the manifestation external signs. What side effects may occur due to ointments:

Striae, acne;
Atrophy of the skin treated with the product;
Dilatation of blood vessels;
The appearance of spider veins;
Skin discoloration (temporary).

Prednisolone, which is available in the form of tablets or ointments, is considered the safest and most effective.

Hormonal drugs for menopause

Hormonal therapy during menopause helps improve lipid metabolism, soften hot flashes, reduce anxiety, increase libido and prevent the development of atherosclerosis, but should only be done under the supervision of a doctor. Which negative impacts may occur during self-treatment:

Sudden weight gain;
Fluid retention in the body, the appearance of edema;
Breast engorgement;
Severe headaches;
Stagnation of bile.

Hormonal drugs for bronchial asthma

Treatment of this disease hormones are prescribed in very rare cases for several reasons:

Hormonal dependence and withdrawal syndrome may occur when therapy is stopped;
Immunity is noticeably reduced;
Increased bone fragility;
The production of insulin and glucose is destabilized, which is fraught with the development of diabetes mellitus;
Concerned about hair loss;
Muscles weaken;
Intraocular pressure increases;
Fat metabolism is disrupted.

Of course, such a side effect does not always occur, but to avoid it, it is best to start treatment with weaker medications.

It is worth noting that almost all hormonal agents affect thyroid or adrenal hormones, so their use should be agreed with a specialist. In general, if you follow the dosage regimen side effect occurs very rarely, but such medications are not prescribed unless absolutely necessary.

Reviews from doctors

Olga, 39 years old, endocrinologist:

“I often prescribe hormones to diabetics, but before that you need to pass all the tests to choose suitable drug. If a doctor recommends medications without test results, this indicates his incompetence.”

Daria, 43 years old, gynecologist:

“To prevent pregnancy, it is best to use oral contraceptives, and in some cases they also help stabilize hormonal levels. You can get pregnant only 1-2 months after stopping them; girls usually don’t have any problems with this.”

Ekaterina, 35 years old, therapist:

“When treating asthma, hormones are used very rarely and only when the disease has taken over. running form. In other cases, it is better to limit yourself to weaker medications.”

Text: Evgenia Bagma

Hormonal imbalance causes many problems in the body. And then hormonal therapy, which is widely used in medicine today, comes to the rescue. But at the same time, conversations about the dangers of hormones for health do not stop. So what are hormones - a panacea or a harm?

The harm of hormones is primarily expressed in their imbalance, which negatively affects mood and behavior, and a little later can provoke the occurrence of serious diseases.

The harm of hormones and their benefits

ABOUT the harm of hormones first started talking about hormone replacement therapy, which became widespread in the mid-to-late last century, especially in the West. So, first of all, it began to be used to relieve the symptoms of menopause, treat diseases such as dwarfism, hypothyroidism, Addison's disease, etc. Today there are two opposing opinions: someone believes that hormonal therapy is a benefit for humans (especially for women) , others talk about its dangers and believe that such therapy can provoke many diseases, as well as obesity.

The last statement has a right to exist - it has already been established that hormones can increase the likelihood of breast cancer, increase the risk of thrombosis, etc. At the same time, medicine does not stand still, and hormonal drugs used several years ago are different from modern medicines- they are manufactured using more advanced technologies and undergo a better degree of purification. Another example is hormonal therapy during menopause, which helps a woman maintain her shape during this difficult period and not gain weight. On the one hand, hormones really cope with this task, but on the other hand, if a woman has already begun to gain weight, they can, on the contrary, only accelerate weight gain. As for development cancer cells, then combined estrogen-gestagen drugs can cope with this side effect.

One of the reasons why some doctors are of the opinion that hormones are harmful is because the dosage is unclear. The level of certain hormones in human body is not a constant value, since in the process of life and depending on various conditions their content may vary greatly. Therefore, treatment should be prescribed very carefully, taking into account individual characteristics, constantly monitoring the increase or decrease in hormone levels. But, often, neither patients nor doctors have the opportunity or time for such careful monitoring, therefore, in most cases, only average doses are prescribed, which can lead to excessive use of hormonal drugs, and the harm from such therapy will be clear. At the same time, we should not forget that our body is quite smart and is capable of removing excess of certain substances on its own. But this only happens if everything internal systems it works without failures, which, alas, is rarely expected. In addition, hormonal drugs can simply become addictive, and the endocrine glands simply become lazy about producing hormones on their own.

When is the risk of hormonal harm justified?

Hormone therapy is perceived as a last resort, life-saving measure, used only when all other methods have failed, and the risk of complications or consequences of the disease is higher than the risk of complications from hormonal treatment. It is very important that the medications are chosen correctly. The use of bioidentical hormones is recommended - they are a kind of “golden mean”. As for hormonal contraceptives, they should also be selected individually, taking into account the characteristics of the woman, her condition hormonal levels and under the supervision of her doctor. For diseases upper sections Gastrointestinal tract, gastritis and ulcers are recommended hormonal patches or quickly dissolving tablets so that penetration into the stomach can be avoided. The risk of hormonal harm is also greatly increased by disordered and long-term use medications are usually sufficient certain period in order for the balance to return to normal. Continuous use of hormones is prescribed only if, for example, a woman has undergone surgery to remove an ovary.

The possible harm of hormones does not mean that they should be abandoned completely. You just need to use them only after consultation and under the supervision of a doctor, otherwise you may not only not help, but also greatly harm your body and worsen your health.

Hormonal drugs are a group of drugs that are used for hormone therapy. The effect of such drugs on the body has been studied well enough that it does not cause concern.

Features of hormonal drugs

Such a broad group as hormonal drugs includes the following categories of drugs:

Contraceptives.
Medicinal (drugs whose action is aimed at curing a disease caused by a deficiency of the hormone).
Regulatory (for example, to normalize menstrual cycle).
Maintenance (insulin for diabetics).

All drugs affect the body of men and women differently. It all depends on the general condition of the body, the presence of serious diseases and the state of the immune system.

Treatment drugs

This group is used for hormonal therapy and is available in the form of tablets and ointments. Tablets treat serious illnesses caused by hormonal imbalances, and ointments have a local effect.

In girls experiencing a lack of hormone production, the skin suffers from cracks and wounds in winter period, since the synthesis of new cells is disrupted. To deal with such trouble. The doctor prescribes creams, ointments and lotions containing hormones. Typically, ointments contain corticosteroids, which are absorbed into the blood within a few hours.

Such drugs can seriously affect the body. Therefore, it is important to maintain the dosage and, when prescribing, immediately determine the duration of the course, since one wrong step can lead to complications of existing problems.

Regulatory drugs

Due to the characteristics of the lifestyle modern woman, deteriorating nutrition and polluted environment, many representatives of the fair sex experience menstrual irregularities. This can affect not only the sexual sphere of the body, but also general condition body. Hormonal disorders can lead to the development of breast cancer, as well as infertility. The action of hormonal drugs can help solve problems.

However, before taking it, examination and tests are necessary. First, a blood test is performed for certain substances. He will be able to identify a lack of certain hormones or their excess. Such tests are quite expensive, but to solve problems it is necessary to start treatment in a timely manner. After identifying a deficiency or excess of hormones, regulation of their content begins. For this, courses of injections or tablets are prescribed. Properly selected oral contraceptives will help normalize the cycle without harm to health.

Any product containing hormones requires scrupulousness in determining the dosage, since it is quite easy to cross the line of the required dose. For example, exceeding the norm of progesterone can lead to hair loss, swelling and pain in the mammary glands.

Hormonal preparations can be made from naturally occurring hormones or they can be synthetically produced substances. At endocrine diseases a course of hormonal therapy is aimed at normalizing hormonal levels and normalizing metabolic processes. Depending on functional state of one or another gland, hormone therapy is conventionally divided into replacement, stimulating and blocking.

Negative effects of hormones

For the body of both men and women, the use of hormonal drugs can cause such unpleasant consequences, How:

osteoporosis and mucosal ulcers duodenum and the stomach itself when taking glucocorticoids;
weight loss and cardiac arrhythmia when taking thyroid hormones;
too much sharp decline blood sugar when taking insulin.

Hormonal medications can give you osteoporosis

The effect of hormonal ointments on the body

Preparations containing topical hormones can vary greatly in the degree of effect on the body. Ointments and creams are considered the most powerful; gels and lotions contain lower concentrations. Hormonal ointments used to treat skin diseases and allergic manifestations. Their action is aimed at eliminating the causes of inflammation and irritation on the skin.

Hormonal ointment is the safest of all drugs

However, if you compare ointments with tablets or injections, then their harm is minimal, since absorption into the blood occurs in small doses. In some cases, the use of ointments can lead to a decrease in the productivity of the adrenal glands, but after the end of the course of treatment, their functionality is restored on its own.

The effect of hormonal contraceptives on a woman’s body

The peculiarities of the influence of hormonal drugs on the human body are that many factors are perceived purely individually. The use of such drugs is not only an interference with natural physiological processes, but also influence on the functioning of body systems during the day. Therefore, the decision to prescribe hormonal drugs can only be made by an experienced doctor based on the results comprehensive examination and analyses.

Hormonal contraceptives can be produced in various forms and dosages:

combined;
mini-pill;
injections;
plasters;
subcutaneous implants;
postcoidal drugs;
hormonal rings.

Combination medications contain substances similar to female hormones produced by the ovaries. To be able to choose the optimal medicine, all groups of drugs can be monophasic, biphasic and triphasic. They differ in the proportions of hormones.

Knowing about the properties of gestagens and estrogens, it is possible to identify certain mechanisms of action oral contraceptives:

reduction in the secretion of gonadotropic hormones due to the effects of gestagen;
increased vaginal acidity due to the influence of estrogens;
increased viscosity of cervical mucus;
Each instruction contains the phrase “ovum implantation,” which represents a veiled abortifacient effect of the drugs.

Since the advent of the first oral contraceptives, debates about the safety of the drugs have not subsided, and research in this area continues.

What hormones are included in contraceptives?

Typically, hormonal contraceptives use progestogens, also called progestins or progestogens. These are hormones that are produced yellow body ovaries, in small quantities by the adrenal cortex and during pregnancy by the placenta. The main gestagen is progesterone, which helps prepare the uterus in a state favorable for the development of a fertilized egg.

Another component of oral contraceptives is estrogen. Estrogens are female sex hormones produced by ovarian follicles and the adrenal cortex. Estrogens include three main hormones: estradiol, estriol and estrogen. These hormones are necessary in contraceptives to normalize the menstrual cycle, but not to protect against unwanted conception.

Side effects of hormonal drugs

Each drug has a number of side effects that may occur; when these occur, a decision is made to immediately discontinue the drug.

The most frequently reported cases of side effects of hormonal drugs are:

Arterial hypertension.
Hemolytic-uremic syndrome. It manifests itself with disorders such as anemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal failure.
Porphyria, which is a disorder of hemoglobin synthesis.
Hearing loss due to otosclerosis.

All manufacturers of hormonal drugs indicate thromboembolism as a side effect, which is extremely rare. This condition is a blockage of a blood vessel by a blood clot. If the side effects outweigh the benefits of the medication, it should be discontinued.

Side effects of oral contraceptives are:

amenorrhea (lack of menstrual flow);
headaches;
blurred vision;
changes in blood pressure;
depression;
weight gain;
soreness in the mammary glands.

Studies on side effects of oral contraceptives

IN foreign countries Research is constantly being conducted on the side effects of hormonal drugs on a woman’s body, which has revealed the following facts:

Hormonal contraceptives are used by more than 100 million women in different countries.
Number of deaths from venous and arterial diseases recorded from 2 to 6 per year per million.
Risk venous thrombosis important for young women
Arterial thrombosis is relevant for older women.
Among smoking women, accepting OK, number deaths is about 100 per million per year.

Side effects of oral contraceptives

The influence of hormones on the male body

The male body is also seriously dependent on hormones. A man's body also contains female hormones. Violation of the optimal balance of hormones leads to various diseases.

Excess or lack of estrogen leads to decreased testosterone production. This can cause problems:

in the cardiovascular system;
with memory;
age-related gynecomastia;
decreased immunity.

If the balance of hormones is disturbed, a course of hormonal therapy is necessary to help avoid further deterioration of health.

Progesterone has a calming effect on the male nervous system and helps men suffering from premature ejaculation, solve sexual problems.

Normal estrogen levels in male body has a number of useful properties:

conservation optimal level"good cholesterol";
pronounced muscle growth;
regulation of the nervous system;
improvement of libido.

With an excess of estrogen, the following is noted:

suppression of testosterone production;
female-type fat deposits;
gynecomastia.
Erectile dysfunction;
decreased libido;
depression.

Any of the symptoms is extremely unpleasant, so do not hesitate to visit a doctor. A competent specialist will be able to carry out full examination and prescribe a course of medications that will significantly improve the condition of the body.

State of the art modern medicine helps prevent unwanted pregnancy. Proper use contraceptives guarantees that a woman has the right to have a child when she is ready for it.

Type of contraception	Pros	Cons
Hormonal	Effective protection against unwanted pregnancy, reducing the risk of ectopic pregnancy, malignant neoplasms in the reproductive system, normalization of the cycle, improvement of skin condition, prevention of infertility, can be taken continuously	Side effects, contraindications, does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, requires organization - taking medications should not be skipped
	Reliability, one-time use	High concentration of hormones, limited number of doses, likelihood of complications and side effects
Emergency non-hormonal	Ease of use, low cost	Lack of efficiency

For nulliparous women A properly selected contraceptive is not dangerous. Analyze harm and benefit of birth control pills is necessary taking into account the characteristics of a particular drug. These medications are taken only after consultation with a gynecologist-endocrinologist.

Action

Oral contraceptives (OCs) contain essential hormones that regulate the uterine cycle and a woman's ability to conceive a child. The composition is:

combined (COCs) - based on estradiol and progesterone;
mini-pills - based on progesterone.

By hormone concentration combination drugs there are:

microdosed;
low-dose;
medium dose;
highly dosed.

Depending on the content of hormones, OCs are divided:

to monophasic (the content of estradiol and progesterone in all tablets is the same);
biphasic (tablets contain a constant amount of estradiol and the amount of progesterone varying depending on the day of the cycle);
triphasic (the amount of estradiol and progesterone in tablets corresponds to the day of the menstrual cycle).

The advantages of modern drugs are the absence of side effects (weight gain, tumors, body hair growth) that were observed with the first oral contraceptives. These medicines were introduced in 1960 and contained large number female hormones.

Last generation hormonal pills“mini-pills” are recommended for women over 35 years of age for whom estrogens are contraindicated. Even smoking patients are allowed to take them. Bleeding between menstruation is not an indication for discontinuing the contraceptive.

Small doses of hormones contained in OCs have a therapeutic and preventive effect:

prevent development malignant tumors reproductive organs, infertility;
regulate the uterine cycle;
facilitate premenstrual syndrome;
remove painful sensations during menstruation;
improve skin condition.

Birth control hormonal pills are prescribed to a woman special conditions:

in a mini-pill;
COCs are included in therapeutic measures after artificial termination of pregnancy or miscarriage;
OK for uterine cycle disorders, for the prevention of endometriosis (proliferation of the inner layer of the uterine wall), in the treatment of mastopathy.

What consequences may arise if canceled?

Earlier hormonal contraceptives required a mandatory break of several months every 3 years of use. Modern OCs can be taken for a long time; their withdrawal affects the body in different ways.

Positive

Already in the first months after discontinuation of the OC, a woman has the opportunity to become pregnant. While taking hormonal drugs, the body creates favorable conditions to conceive a child: the ovaries are rested, the uterus is prepared for bearing a fetus. Birth control pills do not pose a threat to the life of the unborn child. But if pregnancy occurs while taking a contraceptive, it must be stopped immediately.

Negative

In some cases, when stopping hormonal pills, women cannot become pregnant. In this case, gynecologists recommend that the patient undergo an examination to exclude the presence of inflammation. infectious diseases, malignant neoplasms in the uterus. In the absence of pathologies, a woman can plan a pregnancy.

Sometimes, after discontinuing OCs, women begin to experience skin problems, mood swings, depression, and disruption of the uterine cycle. They associate these phenomena with the development of dependence on the drug. steroid hormones. Negative reactions develop only in the case of an incorrectly selected contraceptive, so the choice is made by the doctor and regularly monitors the patient’s condition. Dependence does not develop while taking OCs.

Contraindications

The benefits and harms of birth control pills can only be determined by a specialist. The doctor will choose best condition health, regularity of sexual activity and other factors. OCs will definitely cause harm in the following pathologies:

liver and kidney diseases;
hypertension;
diabetes mellitus;
thrombosis;
cardiac ischemia;
arthritis;
lupus erythematosus.

At depressive disorders, migraines, varicose veins, PMS, birth control pills can be taken under medical supervision.

Oral hormonal contraceptives are a reliable and safe method. They should only be selected by the attending physician. This will help avoid negative consequences and will provide reliable protection from unwanted pregnancy. OCs are used as therapeutic and prophylactic agents.

To treat a wide range of diseases, various hormonal drugs are very often used, which, in addition to being highly effective, have a number of side effects.

If used incorrectly, they can be very dangerous and can also aggravate the patient's condition.

Harm of hormonal drugs: truth or myth^

Hormones are products of internal secretion that are produced by special glands or individual cells, released into the blood and distributed throughout the body, causing a certain biological effect.

In a healthy person, hormones are continuously produced by the endocrine glands. If a malfunction occurs in the body, synthetic or natural analogues come to the rescue.

Why you shouldn’t be afraid of hormones: benefits and harms

Today, hormonal preparations are produced, both natural (having a structure similar to natural hormones) and synthetic (having an artificial origin, but having a similar effect). Depending on their origin, they are divided into several types:

Animals (derived from their glands);
Vegetable;
Synthetic (similar in composition to natural ones);
Synthetic (not similar to natural ones).

Hormonal therapy has three directions:

Stimulating - prescribed to activate the glands. Such treatment is always strictly limited in time or applied in intermittent courses.
Blocking - necessary when the gland is too active or when unwanted tumors are detected. Most often used in conjunction with radiation or surgery.
Replacement - required for diseases that inhibit the production of hormones. This type of treatment is often prescribed for life, as it does not affect the cause of the disease.

The most common misconceptions about hormone therapy

Truths and myths about the dangers of hormones

Myth-1: Hormonal drugs are prescribed only as contraceptives

In fact, these drugs effectively fight many pathologies: diabetes, hypothyroidism, skin diseases, infertility, cancer and other ailments.

Myth-2: If your health improves, you can stop taking hormones

Such a misconception often cancels out the long-term work of doctors and provokes a rapid return of the disease. Any changes to the dosage schedule must be agreed with your doctor.

Myth-3: Hormone therapy is prescribed as a last resort in the treatment of serious illnesses

In modern pharmacology, there are many drugs of a similar composition to get rid of diseases that do not pose a threat to the patient’s life, for example, acne in adolescents or erectile dysfunction in men.

Myth-4: During pregnancy, taking any hormones is contraindicated.

Myth-5: During replacement therapy, hormones accumulate in tissues

Myth-6: Hormones can be replaced with other medications

If a deficiency of a certain hormone is diagnosed, then it is this hormone that needs to be taken to restore health. Some plant extracts have a similar effect, but they cannot fully replace endocrinological drugs. In addition, their long-term exposure is undesirable due to the risk of allergic reactions.

Myth-7: Hormones make you fat

Excessive fatness does not arise from hormones, but from hormonal imbalance and metabolic disorders, as a result of which nutrients begin to be absorbed by the body incorrectly.

Myth-8: In spring, the level of sex hormones increases

Human endocrine functions are subject to both seasonal and daily cycles. Some hormones are activated at night, others during the day, some during the cold season, others during the warm season.

Myth-9: Young people are not at risk of hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalance in the body can occur at any age. The reasons are different: stress and excessive stress, past illnesses, unhealthy lifestyle, taking the wrong medications, genetic problems and much more.

Myth-10: Adrenaline is a “good” hormone, its sharp release benefits a person

Hormones cannot be good or bad - each is useful in its own time. The release of adrenaline really stimulates the body, allowing it to cope with a stressful situation faster. However, the feeling of a surge of energy is replaced by a state of nervous exhaustion and weakness, because... Adrenaline directly affects the nervous system, sharply putting it on alert, which then necessarily causes a “kickback.”

The cardiovascular system also suffers: blood pressure rises, pulse quickens, and there is a risk of vascular overload. That is why frequent stress, accompanied by an increase in adrenaline in the blood, can lead to a stroke or cardiac arrest.

What are the types of hormonal drugs?

According to the method of action, hormonal drugs are divided into:

Steroids: act on sex hormones and substances produced by the adrenal glands;
Amine: and adrenaline;
Peptides: insulin and oxytocin.

Steroid drugs are the most widely used in pharmacology: they are used to treat serious diseases and HIV infections. They are also popular among bodybuilders: for example, Oxandrolone and Oxymethalone are most often used to give the body definition and burn subcutaneous fat, and Stanozolol and Methane are used to gain muscle mass.

In both cases, the drugs cause irreparable harm to healthy people, so it is not recommended to take them without indications. AAS are based on the hormone testosterone, and for women they are most dangerous: with long-term use, they may develop primary male sexual characteristics (virilization), and the most common side effect is infertility.

What side effects can occur from taking hormones?

Most often, side effects of hormonal drugs appear in the first two weeks after starting treatment in the form of the following ailments:

Dizziness and nausea;
Sweating;
Shortness of breath, lack of air;
Tides;
Candidiasis;
Drowsiness;
Deterioration of blood composition;
Virilization (when women take steroids);
Hypertension;
Intestinal dysfunction.

In very rare cases, long-term use of “hormones” or their abuse can cause the development of cancer. To avoid this, you need to periodically undergo tests and do liver tests to monitor your health.

Side effects of hormonal drugs in women: what to watch out for ^

Side effects of hormonal contraceptives

When choosing a hormonal method of contraception, it is important to take into account all the features of a woman’s hormonal status. Find out which hormone levels predominate in the body: estrogen or progesterone, whether there is hyperandrogenism (increased levels of male sex hormones), what concomitant diseases there are, etc.

Arterial hypertension;
Anemia;
Acute renal failure;
Porphyria;
Hearing loss;
Thromboembolism.

The most popular birth control pills are: Qlaira, Regulon, Jess, Tri-Regol. On the contrary, Duphaston is most often used to treat infertility.

Microdosed hormone pills

Side effects of hormonal ointments

Most often, such ointments are used to treat skin diseases: dermatitis, vitiligo, psoriasis, lichen, as well as allergies with external signs. What side effects may occur due to ointments:

Striae, acne;
Atrophy of the skin treated with the product;
Dilatation of blood vessels;
The appearance of spider veins;
Skin discoloration (temporary).

Prednisolone, which is available in the form of tablets or ointments, is considered the safest and most effective.

Hormonal drugs for menopause

Hormonal therapy for menopause helps improve lipid metabolism, alleviate hot flashes, reduce anxiety, increase libido and prevent the development of atherosclerosis, but should only be done under the supervision of a physician. What negative effects may occur during self-treatment:

Sudden weight gain;
Fluid retention in the body, the appearance of edema;
Breast engorgement;
Severe headaches;
Stagnation of bile.

Hormonal drugs for bronchial asthma

Treatment of this disease with hormones is prescribed in very rare cases for several reasons:

Hormonal dependence and withdrawal syndrome may occur when therapy is stopped;
Immunity is noticeably reduced;
Increased bone fragility;
The production of insulin and glucose is destabilized, which is fraught with the development of diabetes mellitus;
Concerned about hair loss;
Muscles weaken;
Intraocular pressure increases;
Fat metabolism is disrupted.

Of course, such a side effect does not always occur, but to avoid it, it is best to start treatment with weaker medications.

It is worth noting that almost all hormonal agents affect thyroid or adrenal hormones, so their use should be agreed with a specialist. In general, if the dosage regimen is followed, side effects occur very rarely, but such medications are still not prescribed unless absolutely necessary.

Doctor's orders are checked online and often not followed. Hormonal drugs are especially disliked: “Doctor, not hormones!” How dangerous are these drugs? Let's figure it out.

Case from practice

Young woman, 8 weeks pregnant. Increased level thyroid-stimulating hormone pituitary gland (TSH). I inform the patient that she has hypothyroidism - decreased function of the thyroid gland. I prescribe treatment and explain: the hormonal drug is needed for normal development fetus The patient appears before giving birth. TSH is still high. She doesn’t take the medicine - her mother-in-law forbade it: “These are hormones!”

A few years later we meet by chance on the street, she leads her son by the hand: “Hello, doctor, this is my Mitya.” Mitya has a vacant look, he does not speak yet, and is noticeably behind his peers in development. His mother has a pale, puffy face, her voice has become rough and low: it looks like hypothyroidism is progressing. The outcome could have been different. But the doctor’s prescriptions were opposed by an “iron” argument - “I don’t want to take hormones!”

Set in motion

Hormones are produced by special endocrine glands. “Hormon” is translated from Greek as “I set in motion, excite, motivate.” Hormones act distally, that is, at a distance from the gland where they were formed, their effects are diverse and unique.

When there are few or many

We have many different hormones, and their production is subject to strict laws. But in some diseases, the formation of hormones is disrupted.

Sometimes work endocrine glands decreases. If you do not make the correct diagnosis in time and do not start correct treatment, trouble will happen. What is the correct treatment for a deficiency of a certain hormone? Of course, compensation for the missing factor. Here are some examples.

Diabetes mellitus type 1- a disease in which the hormone insulin ceases to be produced. Without it, glucose does not enter the cells and is not formed from it necessary for the body energy. Thanks to insulin medications, people with diabetes live full lives.

Another example - adrenal insufficiency: increasing weakness, weight loss, blood circulation is impaired. Fortunately, there are medications similar to adrenal hormones (glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids).

Hypothyroidism- decreased thyroid function - requires compensation for the deficiency of levothyroxine, a thyroid hormone. It is inactive, but when it enters cells, it is converted into active triiodothyronine, which is responsible for protein biosynthesis.

Hypogonadism- insufficiency of the function of the gonads. It occurs in both men and women. Main symptom- infertility. Treatment with sex hormones can solve the problem.

It happens the other way around: Too many hormones are produced. The cause may be an adenoma endocrine gland or the appearance of stimulating antibodies, causing the gland to work in “pot, cook!” mode.

An excess of hormones is no less dangerous than a deficiency: “a flood is no better than a drought.” It is treated with drugs that block the gland or by removing the “unruly” gland.

From allergies to sclerosis

All of the above applies to diseases endocrine system and the principles of their treatment. However, the use of hormones in medicine is much wider. Thus, drugs similar to adrenal hormones (glucocorticoids) are used to treat autoimmune diseases: bronchial asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and others.

Glucocorticoids quickly improve the patient's condition. But they are appointed, observing certain principles, so that healing effect was optimal, and side effects- unexpressed.

Female hormone preparations(estrogens and progestins) are used as effective and safe contraceptives, and also for the treatment of perimenopausal symptoms.

Drugs male hormones , anabolic steroid, are used in the treatment of dystrophic conditions. Unfortunately, these drugs are sometimes abused by athletes to increase muscle mass, forgetting about possible complications: damage to the liver, heart, sexual function.

Do not forget: any medicine if used incorrectly can cause harm. Medicines, including hormonal ones, are prescribed by a doctor, who, when planning treatment, takes into account many various factors: your gender, age, weight, concomitant diseases, bad habits and previous allergic reactions, heredity.