Primolut-N (norethisterone) is a synthetic progestogen useful for treating a range of conditions unique to the female reproductive system.

First developed in the early 1950s, it was one of the active ingredients in the earliest available oral contraceptives.

Birth Control with Primolut-N:

The active ingredient in Primolut-N is norethisterone, a progestin. Progestins are most effective for birth control when combined with an estrogen hormone as well. A pill containing both progestin and estrogen is called a combined oral contraceptive.

Progestin-only pills, such as Primolut-N, are not quite as effective at preventing pregnancy. Where less than 1 in 100 women conceive while using a combined oral contraceptive, about 4 in 100 get pregnant while using progestin-only pills.

Progestin-only pills are usually prescribed for birth control only when combined oral contraceptives are unsuitable for some reason, such as interference with other medications or allergic reaction to ingredients.

As a contraceptive, Primolut-N is similar to other birth control pills. One tablet is taken daily to prevent pregnancy. Other forms of contraception should be used during the first two weeks of use and if a dose is missed more than one day in a row.

Primolut-N for Pre-Menstrual Tension (PMT or PMS):

Primolut-N is also used by women who experience severe PMT symptoms, such as:

• Mood changes
• Breast pain or tenderness
• Water retention or bloating
• Headaches, including migraines

If using Primolut-N for birth control, PMT symptoms should be eased without taking additional doses.

Used solely to treat PMT symptoms, 2 or 3 pills (10 to 15 mg) are taken daily during the week prior to menstruation. Usually treatment is repeated for several months, then stopped to see if severe symptoms return. If needed, treatment may begin again for several more months.

Some women experience spotting or delayed menstruation during the first month of use. The menstrual cycle should become regular after the first month.

Primolut-N to Delay Menstruation:

Sometimes menstruation can be very inconvenient, such as during travel or participating in a sporting event. Primolut-N can delay menstruation until a more convenient time.

To delay a period, 1 tablet is taken 3 times daily, starting 3 days before the period is expected to begin. This treatment should continue for the duration of the desired delay. Menstruation will resume 2 or 3 days after treatment stops.

Other Applications:

Progestins like Primolut-N are used to treat a number of other conditions experienced by women:

• Breast Cancer - usually used in conjunction with other treatments, Primolut-N may help prevent the growth and spread of certain types of breast cancer. The usual dose is 8 to 12 pills daily.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy - for post-menopausal women, this medication may be given to help stabilize changing hormone levels.
• Uterine Hemorrhage - taken 3 times daily, Primolut-N will slow or stop heavy bleeding, and help prevent it from starting during surgery or certain medical procedures.

Use of Primolut-N for any application may temporarily reduce fertility. Women trying to conceive may want to consider other options.

Side Effects and Warnings:

Side effects associated with this medication are similar to those associated with any oral contraceptive. Most are mild and pass quickly, such as a mild headache or nausea. Women who experience more severe symptoms should cease taking this medication and speak with a physician:

• Severe headaches
• Changes to vision, taste or smell
• Swelling or pain in legs or arms
• Shortness of breath
• Allergic reactions (swelling of tongue, eyes, lips or throat)

Women with certain pre-existing health conditions are much more likely to experience severe side effects:

• Hyperlipidemia (high blood fat)
• History of blood clots
• History of heart problems or angina
• Impaired liver function

Women who do experience side effects may have better results with one of the many other oral contraceptives currently available.

Ingredients:

Active ingredient: norethisterone

Inactive ingredients: lactose, magnesium stearate, maize starch