Gill, V. “Sex Hormone trial for head injury.” BBC New. February 20, 2010. BBC MMX [Internet]. [accessed Feb 20, 2010] Available from:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/science/nature/8525777.stm
Sex hormone trial for head injury
A new medical trial led by Dr. David Wright was announced at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The study, which will involve 1000 patients at trauma centers in the US is focused on the use of natural progesterone to treat patients with severe head injuries.
Progesterone is a female sex hormone related to pregnancy, which was used in the first contraceptive pills. Studies have shown that the hormone supports normal development of neurons in the brain and has a protective effect on brain tissue that has been traumatized. The hormone tends to reduce the typical swelling associated with brain injuries and repair damaged neurons, thereby reducing the risk of death.
Although synthetic progesterone is now used in contraceptive pills, only the natural form appears to have the beneficial effects on brain injuries. Besides human progesterone, another, more potent natural form is available from yams (sweet potatoes). It is this form that is being used in trials. The progesterone-based drug has been approved by the FDA to be given as soon as possible after a head injury in order to achieve the maximum beneficial effect.
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