Progesterone

Progesterone — Uses and Benefits

Progesterone is a hormone medicine mainly used to treat conditions related to hormonal imbalance in women.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Irregular or absent periods due to low progesterone levels
• Support of the uterine lining during fertility treatments such as IVF
• Prevention of miscarriage in certain high-risk pregnancies, as advised by a doctor
• Along with estrogen therapy to protect the uterus in women taking hormone replacement therapy

HOW IT WORKS

• Progesterone is a natural hormone that helps regulate the menstrual cycle and supports pregnancy
• It helps prepare and maintain the lining of the uterus
• When taken with estrogen, it balances the effect of estrogen on the uterus and reduces certain risks

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat period pain directly
• It is not used to treat infections
• It is not a contraceptive on its own in most forms
• It should not be used casually without a doctor's evaluation of hormone levels

How to Use Progesterone

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take or use progesterone exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the form given (tablet, capsule, injection, or vaginal gel/insert)
• Oral capsules are often taken at bedtime as they may cause drowsiness
• Vaginal forms should be inserted as instructed by your doctor or the product leaflet
• Do not change the dose or stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, especially during pregnancy support treatment
• Complete the full course as advised, even if you feel well

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one
• If you are unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not store in the bathroom or near heat
• Discard any unused or expired medicine safely

Progesterone — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Breast tenderness
• Bloating
• Headache
• Mood changes

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or vomiting
• Irregular spotting or bleeding
• Fatigue
• Fluid retention or mild swelling

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Severe headache, vision changes, or weakness on one side of the body (signs of clot or stroke)
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat, or rash and itching
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Severe abdominal pain or swelling in legs

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Progesterone — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Have or had breast cancer or certain hormone-sensitive cancers
• Have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack
• Have severe liver disease
• Are allergic to progesterone or peanut oil (used in some capsule formulations)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or migraine
• Have depression or mood disorders
• Have a history of liver or kidney problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking any other hormone medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Anti-seizure medicines
• Other hormonal medicines including contraceptives
• Blood thinners
• Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you use

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can progesterone help me get pregnant?

It may be used to support the uterine lining during fertility treatment, but it does not directly cause pregnancy; it works alongside other treatments as advised by your fertility specialist.

Will this medicine make me gain weight?

Some mild bloating or fluid retention can occur, but significant weight gain is not a typical effect for most people.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, you should not stop without consulting your doctor, as stopping suddenly, especially during pregnancy support, can cause complications.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.