Progestogens: What They Do, Medicines
Progestogens are medicines that act like progesterone, a natural female sex hormone. In tablet form they are used for period problems such as heavy, painful or irregular periods, and for other conditions a doctor decides. Dydrogesterone and norethisterone are examples. They are prescription medicines.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Progestogens work?
Progestogens attach to progesterone receptors in the womb lining and other tissues. They steady the lining and help control when and how heavily it sheds.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Progestogens. They are listed A to Z.
- Dydrogesterone: Dydrogesterone is a prescription hormone medicine that acts like the natural hormone progesterone.
- Norethisterone: Norethisterone is a prescription hormone tablet that acts like the natural hormone progesterone.
Common questions
Do progestogen tablets work as contraceptives?
Not necessarily. Norethisterone taken for period problems or to delay a period is not a contraceptive, and pregnancy is still possible. Contraception is a separate use that a doctor must confirm. Ask the doctor or pharmacist whether your tablet gives contraceptive cover.
Who should not take progestogens?
Common reasons include pregnancy for some tablets, unexplained vaginal bleeding, some hormone-linked cancers, and for some tablets a history of blood clots or serious liver disease. Tell the doctor your full history before taking one. The exact list depends on the medicine.
Sources
- Duphaston (dydrogesterone) 10 mg: precautions. RxReasoner (summary of the EU/UK Summary of Product Characteristics)
- Primolut N (norethisterone): precautions. RxReasoner (summary of the UK Summary of Product Characteristics)
- Choosing a medicine to delay periods. Specialist Pharmacy Service (NHS)