Fluorogestone Acetate (also known as Flurogestone Acetate, Flugestone Acetate, Fluorogesterone Acetate) was first synthesised by G. D. Searle and Company in 1959. The chemical, which has progestogen activity, was identified as SC-9880. The use of SC-9880 in an intravaginal device for the control and synchronization of oestrus in sheep was described by Wishart.
Fluorogestone acetate showed a high potency with short duration of activity and performed physiologically similar to progesterone. FGA was approximately 20 - 25 times more potent than progesterone. Flurogestone acetate was shown to be readily absorbed from impregnated sponges . A 30mg impregnated sponge was effective in blocking ovulation and oestrus, once the sponge was removed impregnated ewes showed visible oestrus, and if inseminated 2 to 4 days after sponge removal showed high conception rates.
