Dydrogesterone
Brand names Duphaston, Duphaston HRT
Used in the following combined preparations None
General Information
Dydrogesterone is a progestogen, a synthetic hormone similar to the natural female sex hormone progesterone. The drug is widely used to treat a variety of menstrual disorders that are thought to result from a deficiency of progesterone. These include premenstrual syndrome and absent, irregular, or painful periods .
Dydrogesterone is also prescribed together with an oestrogen as part of hormone replacement therapy following the menopause. It may be prescribed for endometriosis , and is also given to prevent miscarriage in women who have already suffered repeated miscarriages.
Information for Users
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
2-3 x daily. In many conditions, this drug is taken at certain times in the menstrual cycle.
Adult dosage range
10-30mg daily.
Onset of effect
Beneficial effects of this drug may not be felt for several months.
Duration of action
12 hours.
Dydrogesterone is usually taken on selected days during the menstrual cycle, depending on the disorder that is being treated.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 2 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
Possible Adverse Effects
Irregular periods and “breakthrough” bleeding are the most common adverse effects of this drug. These symptoms may be helped by dosage adjustment.
Quick Reference
Drug group Female sex hormone
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
Special Precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have a long-term liver problem.
You have heart or circulatory problems.
You have diabetes.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
No evidence of risk at normal dosage.The drug is used to prevent miscarriage.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely.
Infants and children
Not prescribed.
Over 60
No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how dydrogesterone affects you because the drug may rarely cause dizziness.
Alcohol
No special problems.
Prolonged use
No special problems.
Interactions
None.
