Effect of quinestrol on plasma lipids in women.

The effect of Quinestrol (3-0-cyclopentyl-17alpha-ethinyl-1, 3, 5 (10)-triene-3,17-diol), a long acting estrogenic contraceptive steroid, on plasma lipids has been studied in ten women for three months. It was found to lower plasma free fatty acids, cholesterol and cholesterol esters, but to increase plasma phospholipids and triglycerides. The possible causes of these alterations are discussed.