Norethisterone is also known as norethindrone is a synthetic form of the female hormone progesterone which belongs to the 19-nortestosterone-derived progestin class. This is further classified as second-generation progestin, along with levonorgestrel and its derivatives, and is the active form of several other progestins, including norethynodrole and lynestrenol.
It is commonly used to treat menstrual problems, delay periods, and as a contraceptive.
What Are the Uses of Norethisterone Tablets?
Norethisterone (norethindrone) is a medication primarily used for preventing pregnancy, often referred to as the "mini-pill" due to its lack of estrogen. Its key uses include:
Prevents pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and altering the uterus lining
Delaying menstruation for special situations (e.g., travel, events)
Managing endometriosis by reducing pain and abnormal tissue growth
Treating abnormal vaginal bleeding not linked to serious medical issues
Used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) alongside estrogen during menopause
How Does Norethisterone Work (Mechanism of Action)?
Norethisterone is a synthetic progestine. It works by imitating the effects of natural progesterone (female hormone) and the growth and shedding of the lining of the womb, thus treating menstrual irregularities.
Thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg
Alters the uterine lining, reducing the chances of implantation
Suppresses ovulation in about half of menstrual cycles
Reduces the growth of the womb lining, which helps in conditions like endometriosis
How to Take Norethisterone Tablets?
Norethisterone tablets should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Here are general guidelines on how to take them:
Dosage and Timing: For contraception, take one norethisterone tablet (usually 0.35 mg) daily at the same time each day. Do not exceed 24 hours between doses.
Menstrual Disorders or Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Typically taken for 5 to 10 days. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Endometriosis: Usually taken daily long-term, with the dose adjusted by your doctor. The initial dose is often 5 mg, which may be increased.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Norethisterone?
Missing a dose can reduce its effectiveness, especially for birth control.
If you miss a pill and are more than three hours late, take it as soon as you remember. For the next 48 hours, use a backup method of contraception.
Follow your doctor's directions. Take the missed dose as soon as you realise it, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
What Happens If I Take an Overdose?
In the case of an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately or contact the Poison Help line.
An overdose is generally not expected to be dangerous, but it'still requires medical supervision.
Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, or vaginal bleeding.
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If you have any of these serious symptoms, immediately contact your doctor for further assistance. In any case, due to Norethindrone, if you get any kind of reaction in your body, try avoiding it.
Precautions for Norethisterone
Before using Norethindrone, talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. The product may contain some inactive ingredients that can cause some serious allergic reactions or other severe problems.
Do Not Use If You
Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
Have a history of blood clots
Have liver disease or unexplained vaginal bleeding
Before using the medication talk with your doctor if you have any medical history such as:
Yes, Norethisterone tablets can be used to delay periods. This is typically done by starting the medication three days before the expected period and continuing until the delay is no longer needed.
Yes, Norethisterone tablets can be used to stop and delay your period. To delay your period, you should take Norethisterone tablets three times a day, starting three days before your expected period. This will delay your period until about three days after you have taken the last tablet.
Norethindrone is often used once daily for 5 to 10 days during the additional part of the scheduled menstrual cycle, as advised by the physician, to treat irregular uterine bleeding and stopped menstrual cycles. Withdrawal bleeding usually happens three to seven days after you stop using the medicine.
Yes, it is possible to get pregnant while taking Norethisterone because it does not prevent the fertilization of an egg. Unlike contraceptive pills, which inhibit ovulation, Norethisterone primarily works by altering the uterine lining and thickening cervical mucus.
Bleeding usually starts 2–4 days after stopping norethisterone, as hormone levels drop and your body resumes its natural cycle.
It may take 1-3 days for norethisterone to reduce or stop bleeding, depending on the cause and how your body responds to the medication.
To delay your period, start taking norethisterone 3 days before your expected period date, as directed by your doctor.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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