Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 7/3/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Prometrium
  
• Generic Name: Progesterone
  
• Uses: Treatment for hormone replacement therapy, menstrual disorders, and to support pregnancy in women with infertility
  
• Drug Class: Progestin hormone
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Progesterone is a naturally occurring female sex hormone responsible for regulating ovulation and pregnancy and preventing certain diseases (namely uterine cancer). Progesterone also helps regulate functions such as:

• Bone density
  
• Weight management
  
• Skin health
  
• Sleep
  
• Mood
  
  

As a hormonal supplement, progesterone is commonly prescribed for women who have passed menopause or women who experience irregular menstruation. Progesterone levels are usually at their highest during pregnancy. It is frequently used in birth control pills for this exact reason – it can actually trick the body into not ovulating. Progesterone levels usually start to decrease after menopause, which can lead to an increased risk of ovarian and uterine cancers.

Progesterone is commonly prescribed as a part of hormone replacement therapy, a treatment that supplements low levels of certain hormones. Low levels of progesterone are diagnosed through a blood test.

Common symptoms of low progesterone include:

• Irregular menstruation
  
• Shortened menstrual cycles
  
• Mood changes (anxiety or depression)
  
• Breast tenderness
  
• Weight gain
  
• Decreased sex drive
  
• Trouble sleeping
  
• Hot flashes
  
  

Progesterone supplements restore hormonal balance in the body and can help the symptoms listed above.

Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. However, progesterone is prescribed for individuals who have been diagnosed with hormonal deficiency - meaning that the ovaries and adrenal glands are not producing enough of the hormone.

Progesterone medication works by supplementing low hormonal levels in the body through an oral tablet. These capsules release progesterone into the body, which restores hormonal balance and reduces the symptoms of low progesterone.

Progesterone is available in the following forms:

• Oral capsules
  
• Vaginal gel
  
• Vaginal suppositories
  
• Injectable solution
  
  

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.

Progesterone is used for hormone replacement therapy, to manage menstrual disorders, and to support pregnancy in women with infertility. You may notice the effects of progesterone within a few weeks of starting treatment. It may take several months to achieve the full effect, especially for hormone-related conditions.

Continue using progesterone as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription is crucial for the management of your condition.

While progesterone is primarily used for hormone replacement therapy, menstrual disorders, and to support pregnancy, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for other conditions, such as to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or to support early pregnancy in women with recurrent miscarriages.

Discuss any alternative uses of progesterone with your healthcare provider.

Progesterone is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral capsules
  
• Vaginal gel
  
• Vaginal suppositories
  
• Injectable solution
  
  

Progesterone is a prescription medication. You must have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain it.