Progesterone capsules
What do progesterone capsules do?
PROGESTERONE (Prometrium(R)) is a female hormone that is produced naturally in the body. These progesterone capsules are used to prevent the overgrowth of the uterine lining in post-menopausal women who are taking estrogens for menopausal symptoms. Progesterone is also used for the treatment of secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods in women who have previously had a menstrual period) due to progesterone deficiency.
What should my health care professional know before I use progesterone?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• blood vessel disease, blood clotting disorder, or suffered a stroke
• breast, cervical or vaginal cancer
• diabetes
• heart, kidney or liver disease
• high blood lipids or cholesterol
• hysterectomy
• mental depression
• migraine
• seizures (convulsions)
• vaginal bleeding
• an unusual or allergic reaction to progesterone, other hormones, peanut oil, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• recent miscarriage
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Progesterone capsules are taken by mouth. Use exactly as directed. Do not use more often than prescribed. Your prescriber or health care professional will tell you how long you must use these capsules, and which days you should take them.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with progesterone?
• barbiturate medicines for inducing sleep or treating seizures (convulsions)
• bromocriptine
• carbamazepine
• ketoconazole
• phenytoin
• rifampin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using progesterone?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• abdominal pain
• breast tenderness or discharge
• dizziness
• muscle or bone pain
• numbness or pain in the arm or leg
• pain in the chest, groin or leg
• severe headache
• stomach pain
• sudden shortness of breath
• unusual weakness or tiredness
• vision or speech problems
• yellowing of skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• changes in sexual desire or ability
• changes in vaginal bleeding
• facial hair growth
• fluid retention and swelling
• headache
• increased sweating or hot flashes
• loss of appetite or increase in appetite
• mood changes, anxiety, depression, frustration, anger, or emotional outbursts
• nausea, vomiting
• skin rash
• stomach discomfort
• weight gain or weight loss
• vaginal yeast infection (irritation and white discharge)