Synthesis of Norethisterone (or norethindrone) (or 19-nor-17α-ethynyltestosterone), the first highly active progestin analog that was effective when taken by mouth. This molecule became part of one of the first successful combined oral contraceptive pills. It is also used in some progestogen only pills, and it is also available as a stand-alone drug. DOI: 10.1021/ja01645a010.