Duphaston: Uses, Side Effects and Precautions
The active ingredient in Duphaston tablets is dydrogesterone, a synthetic version of progesterone. Duphaston tablets are used to treat female reproductive cycle disorders such as infertility, irregular menses, and uterine bleeding. They work by mimicking the activities of the natural hormone progesterone, helping to alleviate the symptoms of hormonal imbalances.
Dydrogesterone Uses
Dydrogesterone is a synthetic progestogen that works similarly to the natural hormone progesterone. It is used to:
- Treat menstrual disorders caused by hormonal imbalances.
- Prevent miscarriages and abortions.
- Relieve pain and menstrual cramps.
- Treat endometriosis, a condition with symptoms like abdominal pain and menstrual irregularities.
- Treat secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstruation due to reasons other than pregnancy or menopause).
- Address various disorders like dysfunctional uterine bleeding, premenstrual syndrome, threatened abortion, habitual abortion, infertility due to luteal insufficiency, and hormone replacement therapy.
Side Effects of Dydrogesterone
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Cough
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
Serious Side Effects
- Breast pain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Stomach pain
- Menstrual disorders
Most common side effects do not require medical attention and will subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if you experience serious or rare side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Precautions Needed for Dydrogesterone
Before using Dydrogesterone, consult your doctor if you:
- Are allergic to it or any other medications.
- Have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding.
- Have a medical history of kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach ulcers.
Identifying the cause of abnormal bleeding is crucial before starting treatment with this medication.
How to Use Dydrogesterone
- Take the drug orally with a full glass of water, with or without food.
- Maintain a proper time gap if more than one tablet is needed.
- Take the medication at the same time each day to ensure a constant amount in your body.
Dydrogesterone Dosage Information
- If you forget to take Duphaston, take it as soon as possible. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Avoid missed doses to reduce the risk of irregular bleeding.
Overdose
- Seek medical attention immediately if you overdose. Symptoms can include abnormal bleeding, severe stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhea.
Storage
- Store the medication at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
- Keep away from direct contact with heat, air, and light.
- Store in a safe place out of children’s reach.
Dydrogesterone vs Norethisterone
| Dydrogesterone | Norethisterone |
|---|---|
| Dydrogesterone is a progestin which is a female hormone. This works by regulating the healthy growth and normal shedding of the womb lining. | Norethisterone is also known as norethindrone and is a synthetic progestin hormone that belongs to the 19-nortestosterone-derived progestin class. |
| Dydrogesterone is used for the treatment of various disorders like dysfunctional uterine bleeding, premenstrual syndrome, threatened abortion and habitual abortion. | This medicine is used to prevent pregnancy. It is often referred to as the “mini-pill” because it does not contain any estrogens. |
Some of the common side effects of Dydrogesterone are:
|
Some of the common and serious side effects of Norethisterone are:
|
