Insulin Metabolism, Insulin Sensitivity and Hormonal Responses to Insulin Infusion in Patients Taking Oral Contraceptive Steroids

The metabolism of unlabeled human monocomponent insulin was studied in 6 patients using estrogen-progestogen oral contraceptives and compared with a control group. A priming-dose-continuous infusion technique is used. Results of the test indicate that insulin metabolism is altered in patients taking oral contraceptives. Increased capillary permeability to insulin and increased peripheral degradation were noted. Insulin sensitivity was reduced in oral contraceptive patients. The responses of these patients was similar to those observed in cases of untreated diabetes. This observed alteration in insulin metabolism may contribute to the impairment of carbohydrate tolerance in women using oral contraceptives.