Metabolic changes in Singapore women using Norplant®-2 rods: A four year review

Abstract

In this longitudinal study, the metabolic changes seen in Singaporean women using Norplant®-2 rods were evaluated. With respect to liver function, there was indication that the apparent Hepatocellular dysfunction seen in the earlier years was returning to normal. The total proteins and globulin returned to their preinsertion values while the serum bilirubin were also decreasing. In regard to lipid metabolism, there was a rise in the total triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL-Cholesterol in the fourth year after having seen a sustained decrease in the first three years. However, all three parameters were still below their preinsertion mean. Similarly, the HDL- Cholesterol was also increased in the fourth year. As a result the HDL- Cholesterol/Total Cholesterol-HDL Cholesterol ratio remained stable in the fourth year and was 0.299. The LDL-Cholesterol to HDL-Cholesterol ratio decreased in the fourth year. It would thus appear that the use of Norplant®-2 rods appear not to be directly contributory to cardiovascular risk. The use of Norplant®-2 rods was not associated with any significant effect on carbohydrate metabolism.