Tibolone is best described as what kind of agent?

• A. A non-hormonal lipid-lowering agent.
• B. A synthetic steroid with estrogenic, progestogenic, and androgenic effects.
• C. A vitamin supplement for bone health.
• D. A natural phytoestrogen.

Answer: (B)

Tibolone is best described as a synthetic steroid with estrogenic, progestogenic, and androgenic effects. After ingestion it is metabolized into active forms that act on different receptors in various tissues, giving estrogen-like effects in bone and vaginal tissue to help menopausal symptoms and bone health, a progestogenic effect that protects the endometrium, and some androgenic activity that can influence sexual function. This combination sets it apart from non-hormonal lipid-lowering agents, vitamin supplements, or natural phytoestrogens, which do not provide this multi-receptor, tissue-selective hormonal action.