Women's health

Aygestin (NORETHISTERONE) contains a type of hormone known as progesterone. It is used to restore menstruation in women who have stopped having menstrual cycles (also called amenorrhea). Aygestin can also help treat endometriosis, a condition where the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) doesn't shed properly and attaches to the outside of the uterus or other areas such as the ovaries or bowels. Aygestin also helps control unusual and heavy bleeding of the uterus caused by hormonal imbalance. However, the drug is not used to control bleeding caused by fibroids or cancer.

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Product Description

Common uses

This medication is a female hormone. It is used to treat amenorrhea (lack of menstrual flow), abnormal bleeding from the uterus, or endometriosis (a painful condition where the lining of the uterus is abnormal). It is also used to treat certain types of cancer.

Before using

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: high blood pressure, seizures, migraine headaches, diabetes, asthma, heart problems, liver problems, kidney problems, strokes, blood clots, heart attacks, cancer of the breast or genitals, high blood level of cholesterol or fats, depression, excessive weight gain or fluid retention during menstrual cycle, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes). Before having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor that you take this medicine. Do not smoke cigarettes. This medication may increase your risk of strokes, blood clots, high blood pressure, heart attacks, gallbladder disease, vision problems, and liver tumors. Cigarette smoking further increases the risk of strokes, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attacks. Due to the risk of fetal harm, this medication must not be used during pregnancy (especially during the first four months of pregnancy). If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug is excreted into breast milk. The effect on nursing infants has not been determined. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

Directions

May be taken with food or immediately after a meal to prevent stomach upset. Take this medication as prescribed. It is usually taken for 5 to 13 days during the later end of the menstrual cycle. A menstrual period should begin within 3 to 10 days of stopping the medication. For treatment of cancer, the medication is usually taken more often. Follow the dosing schedule carefully. Be sure to ask your doctor if you have any questions.

Cautions

Remember that Aygestin can cause clot-related disorders. Check with your doctor immediately if you experience any of the warning signs listed in "Most important fact about this drug."
To rule out cancer and other problems before you start taking Aygestin, your doctor will give you a complete physical exam, including examination of your breasts and pelvic organs. You also should have a Pap test (cervical smear).
Aygestin may cause some degree of fluid retention. If you have a medical condition that could be made worse by fluid retention—such as epilepsy, migraine, asthma, or a heart or kidney problem—make sure your doctor knows about it.
Be sure to tell your doctor if you experience any irregular or unexplained vaginal bleeding while taking this medication.
Aygestin makes some women depressed. If you've suffered from serious depression in the past, alert your doctor if you think you're having a relapse. You will probably need to stop taking Aygestin.
The long-term effects of drugs such as Aygestin on the function of certain organs—including the pituitary, ovaries, adrenal glands, liver, and uterus—are unknown.
Aygestin may affect cholesterol and blood-sugar levels. If you have diabetes or high cholesterol, your doctor will want to watch you closely while you are taking this drug.
Aygestin may mask the onset of menopause. However, women who are of menopausal age are still eligible to take the drug.
If you're being screened for cancer, make sure the doctor or lab technician knows you are taking Aygestin.


Possible side effects

All progesterone drugs are associated with certain side effects, none of which can be anticipated. If any side effects develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking Aygestin.
Side effects caused by progesterone drugs may include:

Acne, allergic reaction, blood clots in the arteries, veins, eyes, or lungs, breakthrough menstrual bleeding, breast enlargement or tenderness, bulging eye, depression, double vision, cervical changes or secretions, change in menstrual flow, headache, hives, inflammation of the optic nerve, insomnia, menstrual spotting, migraine, mood swings, nausea, rash with or without itchy spots, skin discoloration, stopping of menstrual flow, swelling, vision loss, weight increase or decrease, yellowing of the skin or eyes

If you take too much

Although no specific information is available on Aygestin overdose, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Additional information

Do not take Aygestin if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, since the drug may cause harm to a developing baby.
Aygestin appears in breast milk. Because the effect of Aygestin on a nursing infant is unknown, it is best to avoid the drug while breastfeeding unless it's clearly necessary.

Drug interactions

If Aygestin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Make sure your doctor knows about all the prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking.
In general, when you are taking a progesterone drug such as Aygestin, it is especially important to check with your doctor before taking the following:
Aminoglutethimide
Carbamazepine
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin
Rifabutin
Rifampin