Prometrium
Prometrium
- Prometrium is supplied through pharmacies and authorized online pharmacies in the US, Canada, EU and other markets; it is officially prescription-only (Rx) in most jurisdictions (FDA/EMA), although in some countries or via some online vendors products may be offered without a prescription.
- Prometrium (micronized progesterone) is used for secondary amenorrhea and for endometrial protection in postmenopausal women taking estrogen; it is a natural progestogen that binds progesterone receptors, opposes estrogen-driven endometrial proliferation and converts the endometrium to a secretory, stabilized state (it also has central nervous system effects via metabolites).
- Usual dosages: for secondary amenorrhea, 400 mg orally once daily at bedtime for 10 days (may be repeated monthly as prescribed); for endometrial protection with estrogen, 200 mg orally once daily at bedtime for 12 days of a 28-day cycle; available as 100 mg and 200 mg capsules.
- Form of administration: oral softgel/soft capsules (100 mg, 200 mg); oral capsules are sometimes used off-label vaginally in some regions; compounding preparations are available in specialized pharmacies.
- Onset time: systemic effects (including sedation) typically begin within about 30β60 minutes after an oral dose; meaningful endometrial changes require days to weeks of treatment.
- Duration of action: a single dose has effects that generally persist for roughly 12β24 hours, which is why daily dosing is used; endometrial/protective effects last for the duration of the prescribed regimen.
- Alcohol warning: avoid or limit alcohol while taking Prometrium because alcohol can increase drowsiness, dizziness and sedation associated with progesterone.
- The most common side effec is headache.
- Would you like to try prometrium without a prescription?
Basic Prometrium Information
- INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Progesterone.
- Brand Names Available In United States: Prometrium (AbbVie) in 100 mg and 200 mg soft capsules, orange/yellow blister packs.
- ATC Code: G03DA04.
- Forms & Dosages: Soft capsules 100 mg and 200 mg in blister packs (30/90); vaginal capsules/softgels 100 mg and 200 mg in some markets; compounding powders available rarely via pharmacy compounding.
- Manufacturers In United States: AbbVie manufactures Prometrium; generics and other suppliers include Teva, Mylan and international manufacturers in different markets.
- Registration Status In United States: FDA approved for treatment of secondary amenorrhea and for endometrial protection in postmenopausal women receiving estrogen therapy.
- OTC / Rx Classification: Prescription only (Rx).
Everyday Use & Best Practices (Instructions, Warnings, Daily-Life Integration)
Worried about when to take Prometrium or whether food matters?
Prometrium (micronized progesterone) is typically taken at bedtime unless your prescriber instructs otherwise.
Bedtime dosing reduces daytime drowsiness and fits common regimens for both secondary amenorrhea and HRT protection.
US Prometrium capsules may contain peanut oil; do not use if you have a peanut allergy.
Store capsules in original blister packs in a cool, dry place below 25Β°C (77Β°F).
Set a phone alarm for your bedtime dose to improve adherence and avoid missed doses.
Carry a simple note stating βI take progesteroneβ when traveling with prescriptions to ease customs or security checks.
Checklist For Bedtime Routine:
- Take Prometrium at the same time each night unless told otherwise by your prescriber.
- Keep the blister pack away from moisture and light and below 25Β°C (77Β°F).
- If allergic to peanuts, verify packaging before use and do not take US-packaged capsules containing peanut oil.
- Use a nightly alarm or pill app to maintain consistent timing.
Quick Warnings:
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel drowsy after taking Prometrium.
- Do not stop taking prescribed estrogen or other hormones without consulting your clinician.
Morning Vs Evening Dosing
Many standard regimens list βat bedtimeββfor example, 400 mg once daily at bedtime for secondary amenorrhea and 200 mg nightly for endometrial protection during HRT.
Bedtime dosing helps reduce daytime sedation and fits common clinical practice for micronized progesterone capsules.
Follow your prescriberβs timing for consistency and therapeutic effect.
If a clinician prescribes morning dosing for specific reasons, follow that plan and report any daytime drowsiness.
Taking With Or Without Meals
Micronized progesterone absorption increases when taken with food, especially fatty meals, which raises bioavailability.
If your prescriber wants steady exposure, take Prometrium the same way every dayβeither always with food or always without.
Changing between fed and fasting states can cause variable blood levels and symptoms such as dizziness or breakthrough bleeding.
Safety Priorities
Who should not take Prometrium and what activities should be limited while starting therapy?
Absolute contraindications include severe liver dysfunction, known or suspected breast or other hormone-dependent cancers, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, current or past thrombosis, pregnancy in certain indications, and peanut allergy when using US-packaged capsules that contain peanut oil.
Relative precautions require closer monitoring in hepatic or renal impairment, migraine, asthma, depression or other psychiatric disorders, and cardiovascular disease.
Checklist Of Contraindications:
- Severe liver dysfunction β do not use.
- Known or suspected breast cancer or other hormone-dependent malignancy β do not use.
- Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding β investigate before using.
- History of thrombosis (DVT, PE, stroke, myocardial infarction) β avoid use.
- Allergy to peanuts when using US Prometrium capsules β avoid use.
Do Not:
- Drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Prometrium affects you if you experience dizziness or sedation.
- Mix alcohol with Prometrium during initial dosing if you feel unusually drowsy or depressed.
- Ignore sudden symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or neurological changesβseek urgent care.
Who Should Avoid It
Anyone with listed absolute contraindications must not take Prometrium.
If there is a history of blood clots, uncontrolled hypertension, or active hormone-sensitive cancer, consult your clinician about alternatives.
Pregnant people should discuss risks and benefits with their prescriber because indications vary by situation.
Activities To Limit
Avoid driving or heavy machinery until you know if Prometrium causes dizziness, drowsiness, or sedation.
Limit alcohol while initiating therapy since it can increase sedation and mood effects.
For long-term users, schedule regular breast exams, blood pressure checks, and mood screening with your clinician.
Dosage & Adjustments
Which doses are standard and how should missed doses or special populations be handled?
| Indication | Dose | Regimen |
|---|---|---|
| Secondary Amenorrhea | 400 mg | Once daily at bedtime for 10 days; repeat as prescribed |
| Endometrial Protection With Estrogen (HRT) | 200 mg | Once daily at bedtime for 12 days of a 28-day cycle |
Prometrium typically comes in soft capsules of 100 mg and 200 mg in blister packs of 30 or 90 units.
Do This If You Miss A Dose:
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is close to the next scheduled dose.
- Do not double up to make up a missed dose.
Special Cases And Adjustments:
- Children: Not indicated; safety and efficacy not established.
- Elderly: No routine dose adjustment recommended but monitor for increased sensitivity.
- Severe Hepatic Impairment: Contraindicated.
- Renal Impairment: Use with caution; limited data available.
Overdose Is Managed Supportively And May Cause Nausea, Vomiting, Sedation, Or Withdrawal Bleeding; Seek Medical Advice.
General Regimen
Follow prescriber instructions first; common regimens are 400 mg nightly for 10 days for secondary amenorrhea and 200 mg nightly for 12 days per 28-day cycle for HRT endometrial protection.
Adjust only under clinician guidance, especially when switching between 100 mg and 200 mg capsule strengths.
Special Cases
Do not use Prometrium in children since safety is not established.
Elderly patients do not need routine dose adjustments but may be more sensitive to drowsiness and should be monitored.
Patients with severe liver disease should not take Prometrium.
User Testimonials (Patient-Centered)
What do real patients say about Prometrium in daily life?
Positive Reports
- Many users report predictable withdrawal bleeding when using cyclic 400 mg courses for amenorrhea.
- Postmenopausal women on estrogen plus nightly 200 mg report reliable endometrial protection and fewer irregular bleeds.
- Bedtime dosing is commonly praised for reducing daytime drowsiness and helping sleep for some users.
Common Challenges
- Side effects frequently mentioned include drowsiness, dizziness, mood swings, breast tenderness, bloating, and nausea.
- Some users notice differences in effect when switching between taking Prometrium with food versus on an empty stomach.
- Concerns about peanut oil in US packaging are often raised by people with food allergies.
When To Call Your Clinician:
- Contact your clinician for heavy or persistent bleeding, severe mood changes, or any signs of thrombosis such as sudden leg pain or shortness of breath.
Buying Guide
Where to buy Prometrium and how to compare prices safely?
Prometrium (AbbVie) is available in the US as prescription soft capsules 100 mg and 200 mg in blister packs.
Other international brands include Utrogestan and generics from manufacturers such as Teva and Mylan.
Pharmacies that commonly supply Prometrium include local brick-and-mortar pharmacies, mail-order chains, and verified online pharmacy services that require a prescription.
Price Comparison Tips:
| Brand vs Generic | Typical Packaging | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prometrium (Brand) | 100 mg / 200 mg, 30/90-count blister | May be more expensive; manufacturer coupons sometimes available |
| Generic Micronized Progesterone | 100 mg / 200 mg, varies | Usually lower cost; check excipients and allergen labeling |
Checklist For Safe Online Purchasing:
- Use licensed pharmacies that require a prescription.
- Compare brand name Prometrium with generics for cost and allergen content.
- Confirm packaging and peanut allergen labeling for US products if you have allergies.
In our online pharmacy, Prometrium is available without a prescription, with discreet delivery to United States in 5-14 days.
Whatβs Inside & How It Works
What are the ingredients and how does micronized progesterone act in the body?
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| Micronized Progesterone | Active ingredient; binds progesterone receptors to stabilize endometrium |
| Excipients (eg, oils) | Vehicle for capsule; US formulations may use peanut oil |
| Softgel Capsule Shell | Encases liquid/soft fill; composition varies by manufacturer |
Mechanism Basics In Everyday Terms:
- Progesterone binds receptors in the uterine lining and prevents estrogen-driven overgrowth.
- When given cyclically, a short course can trigger withdrawal bleeding and help restore cycles.
- Micronization and taking with food improve oral absorption and clinical effect.
Main Indications
What uses are approved and which are off-label?
Approved Uses
- Treatment of secondary amenorrhea using 400 mg orally once daily at bedtime for 10 days.
- Endometrial protection for postmenopausal women receiving estrogen therapy using 200 mg orally once daily at bedtime for 12 days of a 28-day cycle.
Off-Label Uses
- Vaginal use of oral capsules (placing softgels vaginally) is practiced in parts of Europe and Asia and discussed off-label in some clinics, but it should only be considered under clinician guidance due to formulation/excipient considerations.
- Compounded forms may be used for special dosing needs but depend on local compounding pharmacy availability and prescriber direction.
Confirm your indication with a prescriber before starting therapy.
Interaction Warnings
Which foods and drugs can affect Prometrium effectiveness?
Food Interactions
- Taking Prometrium with foodβespecially fatty mealsβincreases absorption and bioavailability.
- To reduce variability, take Prometrium the same way each day relative to meals.
Drug Conflicts
- Enzyme inducers such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and St. Johnβs wort can lower progesterone levels and reduce effectiveness.
- Inform prescribers about anticoagulants, antidepressants, antiepileptics, and other hormonal therapies.
- Combining Prometrium with CNS depressants (alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids) may increase sedation or dizziness.
Before Starting New Medications, Check Interactions With Your Pharmacist Or Prescriber.
Latest Evidence & Insights
What do guidelines and practice trends say about micronized progesterone?
- Micronized progesterone formulations like Prometrium and Utrogestan are widely used for endometrial protection with estrogen and for treating secondary amenorrhea, consistent with regulatory approvals.
- Clinical practice emphasizes individualized dosing, consideration of route of administration, and consistent timing and food intake to stabilize exposure.
- Vaginal off-label use of oral capsules appears in regional practice but evidence is mixed and depends on formulation and excipients.
Ask Your Clinician About Alternative Progestogens If You Have Contraindications Or Tolerability Issues.
Alternative Choices
When should other progestogens be considered?
| Drug | Type | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Medroxyprogesterone (Provera) | Synthetic progestin (oral/tablet or injectable) | Widely available; different side effect profile from natural progesterone |
| Dydrogesterone (Duphaston) | Synthetic oral progestogen | Used in some countries; structurally distinct with varying availability |
| Generic Micronized Progesterone | Same active ingredient, different excipients | Often lower cost; check allergen labeling |
Consider Alternatives If You Have Peanut Allergy, Severe Liver Disease, Hormone-Sensitive Cancer, Or Intolerable Side Effects.
Make Switching Decisions With Your Prescriber And Check Insurance Coverage For Cost Differences.
Regulation Snapshot
What is Prometriumβs approval and packaging situation by region?
- In the United States, Prometrium is FDA approved for secondary amenorrhea and for endometrial protection when given with estrogens.
- In the European Union, micronized progesterone is marketed under brand names such as Utrogestan with regional labeling often stating βmicronisedβ or local language equivalents.
- ATC code for progesterone products is G03DA04.
Packaging And Labeling Notes:
- US Prometrium usually comes as orange/yellow blister packs of 100 mg or 200 mg soft capsules and must include peanut allergen warnings.
- Store medicines in original packaging, protect from moisture and light, and keep below 25Β°C (77Β°F).
FAQ Section
Quick Answers To Common Concerns
- Missed Dose? Take as soon as remembered unless it is near the next scheduled dose; do not double up.
- Overdose Signs? Nausea, vomiting, withdrawal bleeding, or sedationβseek medical help promptly.
- Can Pregnant People Take It? Indications vary; discuss with your clinician because some uses are contraindicated in pregnancy.
- Storage? Keep below 25Β°C (77Β°F), protect from moisture and light, and do not refrigerate.
- Allergies? Check for peanut oil in US capsule formulations and avoid if allergic.
When To Call Your Clinician
- Call immediately for sudden calf or leg pain, shortness of breath, severe chest pain or neurological deficits.
- Report jaundice, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain which may indicate liver problems.
- Seek urgent help for sudden severe headaches, visual changes, severe mood changes, or suicidal thoughts.
- Contact your prescriber for heavy or persistent vaginal bleeding or new breast lumps.
Guidelines For Proper Use
How to start, monitor, and recognize red flags with Prometrium therapy.
Before starting, disclose medical history including clotting history, liver disease, cancers, migraines, psychiatric history, current medications, and peanut allergy to your prescriber.
Baseline checks may include blood pressure, weight, and other labs per clinician discretion.
For HRT users, follow the cyclic regimen prescribedβfor example, 200 mg nightly for 12 days of each 28-day cycleβand schedule periodic reviews for breast health, blood pressure, and symptom control.
Monitoring & Follow-Up
| Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 6β12 Weeks After Start | Assess side effects, adherence, and efficacy |
| Annually | Breast exam, blood pressure check, mood and symptom review |
Red Flags And Emergency Signs
- Signs Of Thrombosis: sudden leg swelling/pain or sudden breathlessnessβseek emergency care.
- Liver Warning Signs: jaundice, dark urine, severe abdominal painβstop medication and seek immediate evaluation.
- Severe Psychiatric Changes: sudden suicidal thoughts, severe depression, or marked behavioral changesβurgent contact recommended.
In emergencies, go to the nearest emergency department or call emergency services immediately.
Delivery Across United States
| City | Region | Delivery time |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Northeast | 5-7 days |
| Los Angeles | West | 5-7 days |
| Chicago | Midwest | 5-7 days |
| Houston | South | 5-7 days |
| Phoenix | West | 5-7 days |
| Philadelphia | Northeast | 5-7 days |
| San Antonio | South | 5-7 days |
| San Diego | West | 5-9 days |
| Dallas | South | 5-9 days |
| San Jose | West | 5-9 days |
| Austin | South | 5-9 days |
| Jacksonville | South | 5-9 days |
| Columbus | Midwest | 5-9 days |