Norethisterone

O que é Norethisterone?

Norethisterone is a synthetic progestogen — a laboratory-made form of the naturally occurring female sex hormone progesterone. It is widely used in gynaecological medicamento for a range of indications, most commonly to delay menstruation (periods) for a specific period, such as during a holiday, sporting event, or important occasion.

It is available under brand names including Primolut N and Utovlan in various EU countries and is a medicamento sujeito a receita médica across the EU. It is not a contraceptive at the doses utilizado para period delay.

Como funciona Norethisterone work?

The menstrual cycle is regulated by the rise and fall of sex hormones — particularly oestrogen and progesterone. In the second half of the menstrual cycle (the luteal phase), progesterone levels rise and then fall sharply if pregnancy has not occurred. This fall in progesterone triggers the shedding of the uterine lining, which is the menstrual bleed.

Norethisterone works by supplying exogenous (external) progestogen, maintaining the hormonal conditions that prevent this shedding. As long as norethisterone is taken, progesterone levels remain elevated and the period is delayed. When the comprimidos are stopped, progesterone levels fall, and the period typically begins within 2–3 days.

Norethisterone does not affect ovulation or the underlying menstrual cycle in the same way as combined oral contraceptives, and it does not reliably prevent pregnancy.

Para quem é Norethisterone for?

Norethisterone for period delay is suitable for adult women who wish to postpone their period for a specific, short-term period. Common reasons include:

• Holidays, travel, or extended activities where menstruation would be particularly inconvenient
• Sporting events or performances
• Religious observances
• Medical procedures

Norethisterone is not appropriate for women with:

• A personal or family history of venous thromboembolism (DVT, pulmonary embolism)
• A history of arterial thrombosis (heart attack, stroke)
• Severely impaired liver function or active liver disease
• Known or suspected hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g. breast cancer, certain types of endometrial cancer)
• Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
• Pregnancy (or suspected pregnancy)

A thorough medical assessment is required before norethisterone can be prescribed. This ensures the tratamento is appropriate for the individual and that the risks of venous thromboembolism and other serious effects have been properly evaluated.

Dosagem

For period delay, norethisterone is taken as follows:

Parameter	Guidance
Dose	5 mg three times daily
Timing	Start 3 days before expected period
Interval	Every 8 hours
Maximum continuous duration	Up to 17 days (as agreed with médico)
Onset of period after stopping	Typically 2–3 days

Norethisterone should not be used more than once in a given menstrual cycle. The period following a course of norethisterone may be heavier or more prolonged than usual.

Efeitos secundários

Efeitos secundários comuns

• Breakthrough bleeding or spotting: Light bleeding may occur during the course, particularly if the course extends beyond the expected period date
• Breast tenderness or discomfort
• Nausea
• Headache
• Mood changes, including low mood or depression
• Bloating or fluid retention
• Acne or oily skin

Serious risks

• Venous thromboembolism (VTE): Progestogens — including norethisterone — are associated with an increased risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism). Women with additional risk factors (obesity, smoking, immobility, family history) should discuss this risk carefully with their médico before use.
• Liver effects: Norethisterone should not be used in women with active or severe liver disease.
• Mood disturbance: Significant depressive symptoms have been reported with progestogen-containing medicamentos; women with a history of depression should be monitored closely.

Norethisterone vs Utrogestan

Medicine	Active Ingredient	Class	Form	Primary Use
Norethisterone	Norethisterone	Synthetic progestogen	Oral comprimido	Period delay, gynaecological conditions
Utrogestan	Progesterone	Natural (micronised) progesterone	Oral cápsula / vaginal	HRT, period delay, luteal support

Utrogestan contains natural progesterone (micronised progesterone) rather than a synthetic progestogen. Some evidence suggests that natural progesterone may have a different (and possibly more favourable) cardiovascular and mood profile compared to synthetic progestogens. The choice between them is a clinical decision that should be made with a médico.

Como aceder a Norethisterone online na Europa

Norethisterone is a medicamento sujeito a receita médica across estados-membros da UE. It cannot be dispensed without a valid receita médica from a qualified medical professional.

Prescrivia operates as a technology intermediary, connecting pacientes with independent EU-registered médicos for online health assessments. We do not prescribe medicamentos, employ médicos, or sell medicamentos directly. If an independent médico determines that norethisterone is clinically appropriate based on your individual circumstances, they may issue a receita médica, which is then fulfilled by a licensed EU farmácia partner.

Important: A Prescrivia não garante that a receita médica will be issued. All clinical decisions are made independently by qualified medical professionals.

Informação de segurança importante

Informe o seu médico before taking Norethisterone if you:

• Have or have had blood clots, heart attack, or stroke
• Are a smoker (particularly over age 35)
• Are obese or have limited mobility
• Have liver disease or jaundice
• Have a history of depression
• Are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding

Contraception note: Norethisterone at period-delay doses is not a reliable contraceptive. If you could be at risk of pregnancy, use additional contraception.

Fontes

Medical information on this page is based on the following sources:

• Agência Europeia de Medicamentos (EMA). Norethisterone-containing products — Product information. ema.europa.eu
• Organização Mundial da Saúde (WHO). Medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use — 5th edition. who.int
• Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Norethisterone — UK public assessment report. gov.uk/mhra

This content is reviewed periodically to reflect updated clinical guidance. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice relevant to your individual health circumstances.