What is this medication for?
This medication is a hormone called progestin. It is used to regulate the menstrual cycle and treat unusual absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea). Progestins help other hormones start and stop the menstrual cycle. This medication can also be used to treat endometriosis.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Aygestin® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Abnormal bleeding: The recommended dose varies from 2.5 mg to 10 mg taken daily for 5 to 10 days during the second half of the usual menstrual period.
Endometriosis: The usual starting dose is 5 mg daily for 2 weeks with increases of 2.5 mg per day every 2 weeks until 15 mg daily is reached.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Norethindrone should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to norethindrone or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is or may be pregnant
- is using this medication as a diagnostic test for pregnancy
- has had a delayed miscarriage
- has certain blood clotting disorders or a history of these disorders (thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders, cerebral apoplexy)
- has known or suspected breast cancer
- has liver disease or impaired liver function
- has undiagnosed vaginal bleeding