ABSENCE OF HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT IN LONG-TERM ORAL-CONTRACEPTIVE USERS.

Abstract

This study was prompted by uncertainties engendered by several recent reports of the hepatotoxic effect of contraceptive drugs. The 12 patients studied were ages 29 to 42 years. All had been using oral contraceptives for 3-6 years continuously. A number of preparations had been used for varying periods of time. The liver-function tests have included cephalin cholesterol colloidal red thymol turbidity plasma bilirubin plasma glutamic oxalo-acetic transaminase (PGOT) bromsulphthalein retention and plasma alkaline phosphatase. The highest value of plasma bilirubin found was 1.7 mg/100 ml in 1 case (upper limit of normal .8 mg/100 ml). All other results were within normal limits. However there were a number of abnormal variations in the empirical tests but it is doubtful if importance need be attached to these. With the exception of these findings the results in all 12 cases have been normal. Since submitting this paper other relevant reports have appeared. A favorable report by Bakke from Seattle was at variance with a report by Cullberg from Sweden describing jaundice and hepatic damage. In 4 cancer-of-the-breast cases treated with 6 times the normal dose of Lyndiol jaundice and liver damage were produced by C ullberg.