Serum copper and zinc in hormonal contraceptive users.

ABSTRACT

PIP: Changes in serum copper and zinc levels were evaluated in Indian (India) women classified as undernourished who use various forms of hormonal contraception, including combination formulations of 30 and 50 mcg ethinylestradiol; injectable combined dihydroprogesterone acetophenide and estradiol enanthate; intravaginal rings of combined d-norgestrel and estradiol; and progestin-only injectable formulations. Serum zinc levels decreased within 3 days and serum copper increased within 10 days in women using combination estrogen/progesterone contraceptives. These alterations were not affected by route of administration, dose levels, chemical composition of the 2 components, or duration of use beyond 3 months. Women using the progestin-only injectable formulation containing norethindrone enanthate (20 mg/month) showed a significant decrease in serum zinc levels within 24 hours of injection. Serum copper levels in progestin-only injectable users were unaltered, however. Again, the type of progestin injected, the dosage, and the duration of use beyond the first month had no effect on the magnitude of the decrease in serum zinc levels.