Steroid absorption and enterohepatic recycling.

ABSTRACT

PIP: The present knowledge on absorption and enterohepatic recycling of contraceptive steroids in human subjects is outlined and some recent results obtained are discussed in this review. The new experimental data relate to the effects of antimicrobial agents on steroid hormone metabolism The plasma levels of steroids may be influenced if the intestinal microflora are altered (as in antibiotic therapy). Some formation of biologically active steroids, such as estradiol, may occur in the intestinal tract and this may be consequential both biologically and pathologically, influenced by factors such as diet and sex. Knowlege of bioavailability of natural and synthetic hormones in terms of their metabolism in the intestine and enterohepatic circulation is scanty. Further studies are called for.