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Prometrium

Generic name: progesteroneproe-JESS-te-rone ]
Drug class: Progestins

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Aug 14, 2023.

What is Prometrium?

Prometrium is a female hormone important for the regulation of ovulation and menstruation.

Prometrium is used to cause menstrual periods in women who have not yet reached menopause but are not having periods due to a lack of progesterone in the body. This medicine is also used to prevent overgrowth in the lining of the uterus in postmenopausal women who are receiving estrogen hormone replacement therapy.

Prometrium should not be used to prevent heart disease or dementia, because Prometrium may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

Prometrium may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use Prometrium if you have: abnormal vaginal bleeding, a history of breast cancer, liver disease, or if you have recently had a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot.

Do not use if you are pregnant.

Prometrium should not be used to prevent heart disease or dementia, because this medicine may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

Using Prometrium can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, or breast cancer.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Prometrium if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

Using Prometrium can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, or breast cancer.

To make sure Prometrium is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

Do not use Prometrium if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Progesterone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Prometrium?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Take the Prometrium capsule with a full glass of water. It is best to take the medicine at night because this medicine can make you dizzy or drowsy.

Apply Prometrium cream to the skin as directed by your doctor.

Prometrium is sometimes used for only a short time, such as 10 to 12 days during each menstrual cycle. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using Prometrium.

If you need surgery or medical tests or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medicine for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are using Prometrium.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Call your doctor if you miss more than one dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using Prometrium?

Prometrium may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Prometrium side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Prometrium may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of Prometrium may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Prometrium?

There may be other drugs that can interact with Prometrium. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.