Perturbations of the human menstrual cycle by oxymetholone

The luteolytic activity of oxymetholone, and anabolic steroid, has been evaluated in 10 women. Administration early in the follicular phase of the cycle inhibited ovulation and prolonged the duration of the cycles in 2 of 3 subjects, but treatment beginning on Day 10 (3 subjects) did not prevent ovulation, although subsequent plasma progesterone concentrations were reduced. Treatment after ovulation (4 subjects) suppressed progesterone levels by 50 to 80 per cent and shortened cycle length by 6 to 8 days. Side effects were weight gain and bromosulfophthalein retention. The most likely mechanisms producing these perturbations are the inhibition of luteinizing hormone release early in the cycle and, later, inhibition of progesterone biosynthesis.