What is Norethisterone?

Norethisterone is a synthetic form of progesterone, a hormone that helps to maintain the uterine lining. Progesterone levels drop before a woman’s period starts, but Norethisterone keeps the lining intact, delaying menstruation. It is used to treat various conditions, such as heavy periods and some female cancers like breast cancer. 

Norethisterone cannot be used for hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The medication helps manage menstrual issues but should only be used as prescribed. It is available in medium-strength tablets and can delay periods until the tablets are stopped, after which the normal cycle resumes.

What is Norethisterone Used For?

Synthetic Progesterone: Norethisterone is a manufactured version of the progesterone hormone.
Maintains Uterus Lining: It helps keep the uterus lining intact during the menstrual cycle.
Regular Progesterone Drop: Normally, progesterone levels fall before a period, causing menstrual bleeding.
Delays Periods: Norethisterone keeps progesterone levels high, preventing menstrual bleeding and delaying your period.
Period Delay Duration: Norethisterone 5mg can delay your period for up to a month.

How Norethisterone Works?

Thickens Vaginal Fluid: Norethisterone thickens the vaginal fluid, making it difficult for sperm to migrate.
Alters Uterine Lining: Changes the lining of the uterus to prevent fertilisation.
Prevents Egg Attachment: Ensures that any fertilised egg not attached to the uterus is expelled from the body.
Prevents Ovulation: In about half of menstrual cycles, it stops the release of an egg (ovulation).

Things to Consider Before Taking Norethisterone

When using Norethisterone period delay tablets, it’s essential to be aware of certain conditions or precautions that may affect its use. This medication is generally suitable for women over the age of 18 who need an effective way to delay their period. However, there are some cases where you should not use Norethisterone, as it may pose risks to your health.

Avoid using Norethisterone 

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
If you are allergic to Norethisterone or any of its ingredients.
If your blood contains high levels of cholesterol or fat.
If you have circulation problems, such as a history of blood clots.
If you have had a heart attack or suffer from angina (chest pain).
If you have jaundice (yellow skin or eyes).
If you have liver issues or have a history of liver illness.
If you have a liver, breast, or womb cancer.
If you are experiencing irregular vaginal bleeding.
If you have a BMI >35
If you have high uncontrolled blood pressure

It is crucial to inform your doctor if any of these apply to you before starting Norethisterone. Your doctor will assess whether this medication is safe for you or if there are other suitable treatment options available. If you are at risk, your doctor may recommend alternatives to ensure your health is not compromised. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and speak to them about any concerns or conditions that could affect your treatment.

Can you buy Norethisterone over the counter? 

No, Norethisterone cannot be bought over the counter as it requires a prescription from a licensed pharmacist. This medication is used to delay periods and needs to be taken under professional guidance to ensure it is safe and suitable for you. To obtain Norethisterone, you can consult with a healthcare professional who will assess your health and prescribe it if appropriate. Always follow the dosage and usage instructions provided by your prescriber for the best results.

Alternatives to Norethisterone

If you oppose using Norethisterone, a menstrual cup could be an alternative. While it won’t delay your period, it helps manage menstrual flow effectively. A menstrual cup fits over the cervix, collects the flow, and reduces the need for frequent changes of tampons or pads. It allows you to stay active and comfortable during your period without interruptions.

Alternative Medications 

Utovlan, also known as norethisterone, is a prescription medication in the UK used to treat menstrual irregularities, absence, endometriosis, and PMS. Norethisterone is a synthetic form of progesterone that prevents egg release from the ovaries, helping manage these conditions effectively.

Primolut-N, which contains Norethisterone, is used to treat irregular, heavy, or painful periods, PMS, and endometriosis. Norethisterone acts like the hormone progesterone, helping to balance hormone levels and control the growth and shedding of the womb lining.

Provera is a synthetic form of progesterone used to regulate periods, stop irregular bleeding, and manage amenorrhea. Follow your doctor’s instructions on dosage and duration. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. Continue the medication for as long as prescribed by your doctor.

How to take Norethisterone:

• Take 1 tablet (15 mg) three times daily, starting 3 days before your period is due.
• When you stop the treatment your period should return in 48-72 hours
  
  

Missed Dose

If you miss a dosage, take it as soon as you recall. Continue with your usual schedule, but do not take a double dose to make up for the missed tablet.

Overdose

If you accidentally take more tablets than prescribed, contact your doctor immediately for advice.

Active Ingredient

Each Norethisterone 5mg tablet contains 5mg of Norethisterone as the active ingredient.

Inactive Ingredients

The inactive ingredients (excipients) may include lactose, maize starch, and magnesium stearate. These ingredients differ depending on the manufacturer.

Norethisterone 5mg is usually available as a generic, but common branded versions include Utovlan and Primolut-N. If the generic option is unavailable, these brands may be used.

Always read the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the complete list of ingredients, and to check for any you might be allergic to.

Everyone reacts to medications differently, and not everyone will experience the same side effects with Norethisterone.

Some common side effects of 5 mg Norethisterone tablets include:

Changes in your period, such as breakthrough bleeding, spotting, or absence of periods
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Increased urination
Excessive thirst
Pelvic pain
Breast lump

Some people may also experience more serious effects, such as difficulty breathing, liver problems (like loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and stomach pain), or symptoms of a blood clot (such as sudden weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, chest pain, trouble breathing, or swelling in the legs or arms).

Other side effects may include:

Hair loss
Depression
Weight gain
Difficulty sleeping
Breast pain or swelling
Vaginal itching or discharge
Itchy skin rash
Swelling of the face, tongue, hands, or feet
Wheezing or difficulty breathing
Fainting or feeling lightheaded
If you notice any of these side effects or feel unwell, contact your doctor.

Norethisterone and Blood Clots

Norethisterone may slightly increase the risk of blood clots (thrombosis). Stop taking this medication immediately and seek medical attention if you experience:

Sudden shortness of breath
Coughing up blood
Sharp chest pain
Swelling in one leg, calf, or foot

For a full list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet.