Progesterone
Prometrium capsules
Dosage varies depending on the medical condition being treated.
Progesterone
Progesterone, or a synthetic version called a progestin, is a key component of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for people who still have their uterus. While estrogen treats menopausal symptoms, progesterone protects the uterine lining from potential cancer risks associated with estrogen-only therapy.
Key benefits:
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Protects the uterus
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Aids sleep and mood
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Supports bone health
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Manages menopausal symptoms
Who needs progesterone in HRT?
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Women with a uterus: Combination HRT, which includes both estrogen and progesterone, is prescribed to women who have not had their uterus removed.
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Women without a uterus: Estrogen-only therapy is typically recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy because they do not have the same risk of endometrial cancer.
Prometrium
Prometrium is a brand name for micronized progesterone, which is chemically identical to the progesterone produced naturally in the body. The "micronized" form is created by reducing natural progesterone to tiny particles and suspending them in a carrier oil (such as peanut oil) to improve absorption.
Why Prometrium may play an important role
in your HRT
Prometrium is prescribed to treat various hormone-related conditions in women:
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Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Used with estrogen in postmenopausal women with a uterus to prevent thickening of the uterine lining (endometrial hyperplasia) and reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
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Secondary amenorrhea: Helps restore menstrual periods in women who have stopped menstruating due to low progesterone levels.
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Fertility treatments: Can be used to support the uterine lining and prevent miscarriage in certain fertility protocols.
Dosage and administration
Prometrium is an oral capsule that is usually taken once daily at bedtime. It is often prescribed for 10–12 days each month for women on HRT.
Important safety information
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Peanut allergy: Prometrium capsules contain peanut oil and should not be used by anyone with a peanut allergy.
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Common side effects: Dizziness and drowsiness are common because of Prometrium's calming effect on the brain. For this reason, it is often taken at bedtime. Other side effects can include headache, breast tenderness, bloating, and mood changes.