Progesterone
Brand names: Prometrium
Why is Progesterone prescribed?
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Prometrium is prescribed for postmenopausal women who are taking estrogen (hormone replacement therapy); it prevents a buildup of the lining of the uterus and abnormal bleeding. Prometrium also may be prescribed to restore menstruation if your menstrual periods have stopped.
Most important fact about Progesterone
Prometrium increases the risk of blood clots, which can lead to phlebitis, breathing problems, vision problems, or stroke. If you experience any symptoms that might suggest the onset of a clot-related disorder—pain with swelling, warmth, and redness in a leg vein, coughing or shortness of breath, loss of vision or double vision, migraine, or weakness or numbness in an arm or leg—stop taking Prometrium and see your doctor immediately.
How should you take Progesterone?
Take Prometrium as directed by your doctor. If Prometrium is prescribed to prevent abnormal buildup of the uterine lining, you will take it once a day for 12 days in a 28-day cycle. If it is prescribed to treat missed menstrual periods, you will take it for 10 days. Prometrium is taken in the evening. If you have difficulty taking Prometrium, swallow the capsules with a glass of water, while standing.
- If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
- Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Protect from light and moisture.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Prometrium.
- Side effects may include:
Abdominal cramping, back pain, bloating, breast tenderness or pain, chest pain, constipation, coughing, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, emotional instability, fatigue, headache, hot flashes, irritability, joint pain, muscle pain, nausea, night sweats, swelling of hands and feet, upper respiratory infection, urinary problems, vaginal discharge, vaginal dryness, viral infection, vomiting, worry
Why should Progesterone not be prescribed?
Do not take Prometrium if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Prometrium contains peanut oil, so you should also avoid Progesterone if you are allergic to peanuts.
Do not take Prometrium if you are pregnant or have had an incomplete miscarriage. Avoid it if you have ever had a blood-clotting disorder or a stroke. Do not take Progesterone if you have a history of breast or genital cancer, heart attack, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or severe liver disease.
Special warnings about Progesterone
To rule out cancer and other problems before you start taking Prometrium, your doctor will give you a complete physical exam, including examination of your breasts and pelvic organs. You also should have a Pap test (cervical smear). Tell your doctor if you experience any irregular vaginal bleeding while taking Progesterone.
Remember that Prometrium can cause clot-related disorders. Check with your doctor immediately if you experience any of the warning signs listed in "Most important fact about Progesterone."
Prometrium may cause some degree of fluid retention. If you have a medical condition that could be made worse by fluid retention—such as epilepsy, migraine, asthma, or a heart or kidney problem—make sure your doctor knows about it.
Prometrium makes some women depressed. If you've suffered from serious depression in the past, alert your doctor if you think you're having a relapse You will probably need to stop taking Prometrium.
Prometrium has a slight effect on insulin and blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, your doctor will want to watch you closely while you are taking Progesterone.
Prometrium may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Progesterone affects you. If you experience extreme drowsiness or dizziness, the doctor may tell you to take Prometrium at bedtime.
Because progesterone is processed in the liver and kidneys, the doctor will monitor you closely if you have a mild liver or kidney disorder. If you have severe liver disease, the drug should not be used at all.
In rare cases, women taking Prometrium suffer a sudden drop in blood pressure that can cause them to faint.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Progesterone
Tell the doctor if you're taking the antifungal medication ketoconazole or a similar drug. It's possible that it may increase Prometrium's effect.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Because the possibility of harm to a developing infant cannot be ruled out, Prometrium should not be taken during pregnancy.
Prometrium appears in breast milk. The drug is recommended for nursing mothers only if it is clearly necessary.
Recommended dosage for Progesterone
ADULTS
To Prevent Abnormal Buildup of the Uterine Lining
For women taking daily conjugated estrogen tablets, the usual dosage of Prometrium is 200 milligrams taken each evening for 12 days in a 28-day cycle.
To Restore Menstrual Periods
The usual dose is 400 milligrams taken each evening for 10 days.
Overdosage
Although no specific information is available, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Prometrium, seek medical attention immediately.
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Compare Progesterone with other medications for the treatment of:
Seizures, Perimenopausal Symptoms, Amenorrhea, Uterine Bleeding, Progesterone Insufficiency, Premature Labor, Endometrial Hyperplasia, Prophylaxis
