Hydrolysis of Norethindrone Acetate by Fetal and Placental Tissue

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Abstract
IT has been demonstrated that certain progestational agents given during pregnancy may result in masculinization of the female fetus.1 , 2 The agent most frequently implicated was norethindrone (Norlutin). This drug has now been largely superseded in clinical use by its more potent ester, norethindrone acetate (Norlutate).This communication reports the rapid in vitro hydrolysis of norethindrone acetate to free norethindrone by placental or fetal tissues at term and as early as the eighth week of pregnancy.Materials and MethodsIncubation and ExtractionAfter purification by chromatography 200 microgm. of norethindrone acetate§ was incubated for one hour at 37°C. with 0.5 gm. . . .