Progestan Capsule

Active Ingredient	Progesterone
Type	Progestin medication

 

How does Progestan Capsule work?

Progestan capsules contain the hormone progesterone in them which is normally produced and supplied by the ovaries. Progesterone is a vital hormone for the latching of the fertilized egg to the uterine wall for establishing a pregnancy. It also helps in the maintenance of pregnancy. Progestan capsules work by maintaining the required levels of the hormone progesterone in the body.

• When used in combination with estrogen, Progestan capsules work to keep the effects of estrogen in check by preventing the abnormal thickening of the endometrial lining of the uterus.

Uses of Progestan Capsules

Progestan capsules are advised for the treatment of the following conditions:

• Treatment of amenorrhea – the condition of absence of menstrual periods.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy – progesterone offers protection against the adverse effects of estrogen used in the therapy.
• Treatment of oligomenorrhea – a condition wherein the menstrual periods are irregular.
• Relief in the abnormal bleeding because of hormonal imbalance.
• Management of severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
• Treatment of endometrial hyperplasia – abnormal thickening of the endometrial lining of the uterus.

Recommended Dosage

Progestan capsules, available in strengths of 100 mg and 200 mg, are designed to be taken orally, usually once daily. The best time to consume it would be at bedtime as it can make you feel drowsy. 

• The treatment regime with Progestan capsules usually consists of taking the capsule for 10-12 days during the menstrual cycle. However, the doctor can suggest modifications depending on your situation.

Precautions for Dosing

• Complete the full course with Progestan capsules even if you feel your symptoms have significantly reduced. Do not discontinue the medication, or use it for a prolonged time, without consulting your doctor.
• Follow the dosage amount as suggested by the doctor. Do not consume more or less than what is recommended. 
• When on progesterone treatment, have regular self-breast exams to detect the presence of any lump.

Missed Dosage

If you miss one dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, skip the missed dose if it’s near the time for your next dose. Do not consume double doses to make up for the missed dose.

• If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor for assistance.

Overdose

Overdosing on Progestan capsules may result in adverse effects. Seek immediate medical help if you feel any severe symptoms such as trouble in breathing, seizures, or losing consciousness.

Important Advisory

Progesterone should be used with caution in some conditions, and may not be suitable for others. Inform your doctor if you have experienced any of the symptoms or conditions listed below.

• Any known allergies to progesterone or other hormonal contraceptives.
• You are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
• If you are breastfeeding.
• If you have vaginal bleeding that has not been diagnosed yet. 
• A history, or a present condition of breast cancer, or cancer of any reproductive organ.
• If you have or have had a liver or kidney disease, including cancer.
• Suffer from hypertension.
• If you have or have had any cardiovascular disease.
• If you have the risk factors for coronary artery disease – diabetes, lupus, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of coronary disease or any of the associated risk factors.
• Any present, or medical history, of thrombosis or stroke.
• Have migraine.
• If you have a history of depression.
• Have asthma.
• Suffer from seizures or epilepsy.

Side Effects of Progestan Capsules

When adjusting to a new medication, your body will exhibit some common side effects associated with Progestan capsules that usually resolve on their own.

• Dizziness
• Mood swings
• Bloating
• Swelling in limbs
• Pain in breasts
• Headache
• Hot flashes
• Constipation 
• Heartburn
• Diarrhea
• Joint pain
• Discharge from vagina

If any of these persist or worsen over time, contact your physician.

In case you experience any of the severe symptoms listed below, call your doctor immediately.

• Allergic reaction – hives, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty in breathing.
• A lump in the breast
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding 
• A sensation of pain or burn when urinating
• Severe headache
• A sudden issue with vision 
• Severe drowsiness 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Confusion
• Extreme mood swings
• Disturbance in sleep patterns
• Fatigue
• Liver problems – yellowing of skin or eyes, reduced appetite, fatigue, nausea, pain in the upper abdomen, dark urine or feces.
• Thrombosis of leg – pain, swelling, or redness in one or both legs.
• Thrombosis of the lung – wheezing, rapid breathing, sudden cough with or without blood, chest pain.
• Symptoms of stroke – sudden numbness in one side of the body, slurred speech, a problem with coordination of movement, severe headache.
• Problem with the cardiovascular system – nausea, sweating, chest pain that spreads to your jaw or shoulder

Interactions With Other Drugs

Certain medications may interact with others to either decrease their effectiveness or aggravate their side effects. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking – prescription, over-the-counter, supplements, herbal, or multivitamins. Clear information about the medications will assist your doctor or pharmacist to prepare safe medication doses and schedules for you. Progestan is known to interact with the following medications.

• Edoxaban
• Venetoclax
• Amiodarone
• Fluconazole
• Itraconazole 
• Ketoconazole
• Cimetidine
• Clarithromycin
• Cyclosporine
• Erythromycin
• Indinavir/Ritonavir/Saquinavir
• Verapamil
• Oral contraceptives
• Zafirlukast
• Omeprazole
• Diltiazem
• Fluoxetine
• St. John’s wort

Interaction with Alcohol

Alcohol makes you drowsy, and Progestan capsules are also known to cause dizziness in users. Combining Progestan capsules with alcohol may make you feel more drowsy.

Interaction with Grapefruit Juice

The use of grapefruit juice, while you are on Progestan treatment, may increase the chances of experiencing side effects in some people. Consult your doctor about the use of grapefruit juice while taking this medication.

Storage Instructions

Retain the Progestan capsule in the original packaging.

• Store medication safely, out of reach of children. 
• Store them at ambient temperature, away from excess moisture and heat.
• Do not consume the expired capsules. Dispose of them safely with your local waste collection department’s guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q1. What are Progestan capsules used for?

Progestan capsules are administered for the treatment of irregular periods, abnormal vaginal bleeding, absence of menstrual periods, and severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. It is also used as part of hormonal replacement therapy to avoid the adverse effects of estrogen.

Q2. Are Progestan capsules safe for use by breastfeeding women?

Progesterone from the Progestan capsules can enter breast milk. However, the actual quantity is very small. Talk to your doctor about your concerns if you plan on using Progestan Capsules to find a suitable plan of action.

Q3. How safe are Progestan Capsules for use in pregnancy?

• Progestan capsules are usually administered during the first trimester of pregnancy to assist with the implantation of the fertilized egg and maintain the established pregnancy.
• It should not be used for any treatment other than low progesterone levels. 
• There is not sufficient scientific evidence available for its effects in humans but animal studies show birth defects in babies. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor if you fall pregnant while using Progestan capsules, or are planning to conceive. 

Q4. Does the use of Progestan capsules impact the ability to drive?

• Some people feel drowsy or dizzy after the use of Progestan capsules. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid driving, or operating any heavy machinery, till you are sure about the effects of this medication on your bodily functions.

References

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12287157/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3513581/
3. https://doi.org/10.1111/aogs.12770