Chhaya oral contraceptive pills (OCP) is:

Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Pharmacology

Easy

Appeared in: Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Explanation

Chhaya, also known as Centchroman or Ormeloxifene, is a non-hormonal and non-steroidal oral contraceptive pill.
It is classified as a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM), which distinguishes it from traditional hormonal contraceptives.
Its primary mechanism is to prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg by making the uterine lining unreceptive, rather than preventing ovulation.

Option B: This describes most common oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), such as combined pills (e.g., Mala-D) and progestin-only pills, which contain synthetic estrogen and/or progestin.
Option C: This is a contradictory and incorrect combination. Steroidal contraceptives are, by their nature, hormonal, as they are based on the chemical structure of steroid hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Chhaya is neither.
Option D: This is incorrect because the first option, 'Non-hormonal and non-steroidal,' accurately describes the composition and nature of Chhaya pills.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacology of Non-Hormonal Contraceptives as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must counsel patients that Chhaya's unique weekly dosing schedule (after the initial 3 months) is crucial for its effectiveness and differs significantly from daily hormonal pills.
Chhaya is an excellent option for women with contraindications to hormonal contraceptives, such as smokers over 35, women with a history of blood clots, or those who are breastfeeding, as it does not carry the same risks.
What if a patient reports irregular bleeding or delayed menses? This is a known side effect of Chhaya due to its effect on the endometrium. The nurse should reassure the patient, rule out pregnancy, and explain that this is common, especially in the initial months of use.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keyword 'Chhaya' in the question stem. Recognize this as a specific brand of contraceptive.
Recall or deduce that Chhaya is a unique contraceptive developed in India, known for its distinct properties.
Access your knowledge of contraceptive classifications. The main categories are hormonal (which are steroidal) and non-hormonal.
Remember that Chhaya (active ingredient: Centchroman/Ormeloxifene) is the primary example of a non-hormonal, non-steroidal oral pill, which functions as a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM).
Evaluate the options based on this specific classification. 'Non-hormonal and non-steroidal' is the only description that fits Chhaya.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pharmacology KD Tripathi Essentials 9e Part 1 p. 375-377