Progesterone falls under a class of medication called progestins (female hormones). Hormonal medicine is used in the treatment of infertility in women, menopausal issues, and maintaining pregnancy. It is also used to restore menstruation in women with secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual cycle). Progesterone (naturally micronized) is obtained from plants but its properties match those in humans. After undergoing a process called micronization, the original size of progesterone is reduced to enhance its dissolution and absorption in the body. It also makes progesterone (naturally micronized) more available in the body and reduces the chances of facing any side effects.
Progesterone regulates or initiates the menstrual cycle (menstruation) in females whose menopause has not arrived yet but who menstruate irregularly. It supports pregnancy by causing secretory changes in the uterine endometrium, stimulating breast growth, relaxing the uterus, preventing follicle maturation from release, and keeping the pregnancy going. Progesterone should be taken as prescribed by the doctor, at the same time each day. Progesterone induces many hormonal changes in the body that can cause side effects. Before taking progesterone in any form, ensure your doctor knows about your allergies, past medical records, and pregnancy updates. The capsules should be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken.
Uses of Natural Progesterone 200 mg
Progesterone is mainly used to treat hormonal issues in females or to support pregnancy. In any case, the medicine should be prescribed by a doctor with the appropriate dosage. Some common health conditions where progesterone is used are the following:
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Female Infertility
- Endometrial hyperplasia
- Amenorrhoea
Side Effects of Natural Progesterone 200 mg
Progesterone is a key hormone in the female endocrine system. The fluctuation in its level caused by multiple factors can elicit moderate to severe side effects. The progesterone should be only taken on the doctor’s prescription at the given dosage. Any deviation from the prescribed dosage can lead to severe side effects requiring immediate medical attention. Some side effects of progesterone are given below:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal bloating
- Headache
- Sleepiness
- Absence of menstrual periods
- Itching
- Flatulence
- Nausea
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Altered menstrual cycle
- Edema (swelling)
- Change in body weight
Drug Interaction
Drug-Drug Interaction:
- Anticonvulsants – acetazolamide and carbamazepine
- Anti-infective – metronidazole, clindamycin
- Antidepressants – fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline
- Herbal preparation – Ginkgo Biloba
Drug-Food Interaction: Progesterone has a possible drug interaction with grapefruit or grapefruit juice. It can also lead to undesirable reactions when consumed with St. John’s wort plant which is used for its anti-depression properties.
Drug-Disease Interaction:
- Breast cancer
- Liver disease
- Thromboembolism
- Depression
- Fluid retention (edema)
- Glucose intolerance
- Retinal thrombosis (blocked vein of the retina of the eye)
- Thyroid disease
- High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
- Uterine bleeding
- Ovarian cyst
Warnings & Precautions
- Progesterone causes sleepiness and drowsiness; avoid driving or other activities requiring focusing.
- Patients with liver problems should avoid progesterone as it can have serious health implications.
- Do not use it along with estrogen as it increases the chances of getting a heart attack, stroke, and blood clots.
- Pregnant women should consult their physician before taking progesterone of any dosage.
- Breastfeeding should also take progesterone only on the doctor’s suggestion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How is Progesterone beneficial in the case of fertility and pregnancy?
Progesterone helps in preparing the endometrium potential for pregnancy after ovulation. It thickens the lining of the endometrium to accept a fertilized egg. It also prevents muscle contractions of the uterus that would reject an egg in the uterus.
- Is Progesterone (Natural Micronized) safe?
Yes, Progesterone (Natural Micronized) is safer as compared to normal synthetic progesterone. It is small in size which helps the body to absorb it easily.
- Does Progesterone (Natural Micronized) cause weight gain?
Yes, Progesterone may cause weight gain. The weight gain may be due to water retention and may not be a serious sign. However, contact your doctor in case your weight gain is worrying you.
