progesterone

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

Progesterone works in conjunction with estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle. During the menstrual cycle, it helps prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. In early pregnancy, the corpus luteum produces progesterone.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Bloating 

Joint pain 

Headache 

Constipation 

Heartburn 

Drowsiness  

Dizziness 

Breast pain 

Mood changes 

Vaginal discharge 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to progesterone or its components should avoid its use. 
• Progesterone should not be used in cases of undiagnosed vaginal bleeding. 

Caution: 

• Individuals with diabetes may experience changes in glucose metabolism should use cautiously. 
• Individuals with a history of cardiovascular conditions should use progesterone with caution. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: 

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.  

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women. 

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

Progesterone prepares the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg. It promotes the development of a secretory endometrium, which is necessary for embryo implantation. 

Pharmacodynamics 

Progesterone primarily binds to and activates progesterone receptors, which exist in two forms: PR-A and PR-B.  

These receptors are present in various tissues, including the uterus, mammary glands, brain, and other reproductive organs. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

When administered orally, progesterone undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver.  

Distribution 

Progesterone is distributed to various tissues. 

Metabolism 

Progesterone undergoes hepatic metabolism. 

Elimination and excretion 

Progesterone is excreted through the kidneys. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

Progesterone is available in capsule, gel, and capsule forms.  

It is administered as oral, vaginal, and intramuscular routes.

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: progesterone 

Why do we use progesterone? 

Progesterone used as contraceptives for birth control in the form of progestin-only pills, injections, implants, and intrauterine devices.  

Progesterone is used in women with a history of preterm birth to reduce the risk of recurrent preterm labor.