Norethisterone.

This belongs to the group of medicines known as progestogens.

Norethisterone can be used to treat premenstrual syndrome, painful periods, abnormal heavy bleeding, irregular periods, to postpone a period and menopausal syndrome (in combination with oestrogen).

Norethisterone works by modifying some of the effects of oestrogen.

It is also used in the treatment of endometriosis where tissue similar to the lining of the womb is present in other parts of the pelvis. This tissue is sensitive to cyclic changes and causes severe pain and painful menstruation.

Norethisterone is available in tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Micronor HRT, Primolut N, Utovlan. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking norethisterone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

* if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
* if you suffer from breast or cervical cancer or a family history of this condition.
* if you suffer from liver, kidney, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), heart, porphyria or migraine problems.
* if you suffer from depression or thrombosis or have a history of these conditions.
* if you suffer from diabetes mellitus or have a family history of this condition.
* if you suffer with asthma, epilepsy or high blood pressure.
* if you suffer from the skin conditions pruritus or pemphigoid gestationis.
* if you suffer from vaginal bleeding other than your normal monthly period.
* if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
* if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to Take Norethisterone

* Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
* Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
* Try to take norethisterone at the same time each day to avoid missing a dose.
* Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of norethisterone contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
* This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

* Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside norethisterone.
* Norethisterone may cause dizziness, particularly when getting up from a sitting or lying position. Getting up slowly should help.
* Norethisterone may cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs, which could be dangerous, if you are not fully alert.
* Diabetics should test their blood or urine regularly to check your diabetes is being well controlled.
* Norethisterone does not stop ovulation. If you need contraception you should discuss this with your doctor who may suggest a combined oral contraceptive pill.

Can Norethisterone cause problems?

Along with their needed effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Indigestion, irregular or abnormal bleeding, bloating, fluid retention, breast tenderness, weight gain, feeling or being sick, headache, dizziness, insomnia, drowsiness, depression, itching, skin rash, acne like spots, hair growth, hair loss or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).

Consult your doctor or pharmacist if any of the side effects mentioned above continue or become troublesome. You should also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any other side effects not mentioned in this leaflet.

How to store Norethisterone

* Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
* Store in a cool; dry place, away from direct heat and light.
* Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

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