Dydrogesterone

Dydrogesterone

Dydrogesterone is a synthetic form of progesterone, which is used to treat progesterone deficiency and other symptoms due to the increased activity of oestrogen. It is mainly used in hormonal replacement therapy (HRT). 

What is Dydrogesterone?

Synthetic progesterone, or Dydrogesterone, is used to treat infertility, control the menstrual cycle, and avoid miscarriages, among other ailments. An oestrogen-primed uterus produces a full secretory endometrium when Dydrogesterone, an orally active progestogen, acts directly on the uterus. Since Dydrogesterone does not interfere with ovulation or the Corpus Luteum, it has no contraceptive effect when used at therapeutic levels. Dydrogesterone tablets aid in controlling the uterine lining’s regular growth and shedding. 

In summary, its benefits include:

• Regulating menstrual cycles.
• Aiding in the treatment of endometriosis.
• Supporting early pregnancy in women with a history of miscarriages.

Dydrogesterone Tablet Uses

Dydrogesterone (female hormone) is used to treat menstruation issues in women who are hormone deficient. Here are some of the Dydrogesterone uses -

• Relieve menstrual pain.
• Prevent abortions and miscarriages.
• Treat endometriosis - a disorder that manifests as irregular menstruation and abdominal pain. 
• Treat secondary amenorrhea, a condition when menstruation has stopped because of the lack of pregnancy and menopause.
• Lastly, it is used as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy and helps treat threatening or habitual abortion, dysfunctional uterine haemorrhage, premenstrual syndrome, and infertility. 

Side Effects of Dydrogesterone Tablet

Like every other medication, Dydrogesterone has some side effects, as follows - 

• Migraines or headache, nausea (feeling sick)
• Menstrual disorders (absent period, painful or irregular periods, excess bleeding, breast pain, and tenderness)
• Depression, feeling dizzy, vomiting, liver problems, weakness, stomach pain (general discomfort), allergic skin reactions (like redness), weight gain
• Severe allergic reactions cause swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing and swallowing, with or without rashes, itching, skin blisters, and peeling. 

Note: When your body adjusts to the dosage, the common side effects disappear and don’t require medical treatment. But you should immediately consult a doctor if you have any unusual or severe side effects.

Precautions

Consult your doctor if you have any pharmaceutical allergies before using Dydrogesterone. The product can include inactive substances that have detrimental impacts on human health. Patients with unexplained abnormal vaginal bleeding are also advised against using it. Consult your doctor before taking the medication if you have any underlying medical conditions, such as stomach ulcers, liver illness, or renal disease. 

How to use Dydrogesterone?

The medication must be ingested orally and can be taken with or without meals. It is advisable to keep a suitable time gap between the dosage if the patient needs to take more than one. Moreover, a patient must drink water in an adequate amount after taking the medicine. Medication should be taken at the same time every day to ensure that the body is always getting the same dose of medication.

How does Dydrogesterone work?

Dydrogesterone helps in treating endometriosis and menstruation disorders, as well as helping women with fertility problems conceive successfully. It functions by controlling the regular growth and shedding of the uterine lining by imitating the actions of progesterone, found naturally in the body and is necessary for preserving pregnancy and controlling the menstrual cycle.

Missed Dose

Don’t forget to take your dose of oestrogen. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, however, skip the dose if it is almost time for the next dose. Never take two doses to make up for one that you missed. It is always advisable to first consult your concerned doctor in the above case.

Overdose

Never use more Dydrogesterone than what is prescribed. If you accidentally overdose, get emergency medical attention.

Storage

The direct exposure of your medications to heat, air, or light may cause damage. There could be negative consequences from drug exposure. The medication must be stored securely and out of the reach of young ones. 68ºF to 77ºF (20ºC to 25ºC) is the ideal room temperature range for the medication.

Comparison - Dydrogesterone vs Norethisterone

Here’s a table of comparison for Dydrogesterone vs Norethisterone - 

Can I take Dydrogesterone with other medicines?

When taking Dydrogesterone, patients are advised to avoid using it with Rifampicin, an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis, because it can decrease the effectiveness of Dydrogesterone. Also, it’s important to consult a doctor before using it with any other medications, including herbal supplements or over-the-counter drugs, to avoid adverse reactions and ensure safe use.

Conclusion

Dydrogesterone is a synthetic hormone similar to progesterone, used in various conditions like menstrual disorders, infertility, and certain menopausal symptoms. 
Ideal candidates are women experiencing hormonal imbalances or those needing support for pregnancy maintenance. Importantly, consultation with a doctor is essential before starting Dydrogesterone to ensure its suitability for the individual’s health condition and mitigate any potential risks, highlighting the significance of professional medical advice in effectively managing health and treatment outcomes.

FAQs

Q1. Is Dydrogesterone safe?

Ans. Dydrogesterone is considered safe for use under supervision due to its proven effectiveness and minimal side effects, making it a preferred option for certain conditions. Healthcare professionals recommend monitoring to address any risks.

Q2. Why is Dydrogesterone given during pregnancy?

Ans. Dydrogesterone, during pregnancy, is prescribed to support the health of the lining, creating an environment for foetal growth. This helps lower the chances of miscarriage and preterm birth by replicating the effects of progesterone.

Q3. How many days should I take Dydrogesterone?

Ans. The duration of Dydrogesterone usage varies based on requirements typically recommended until pregnancy stabilises or for a specified period when treating disorders. It’s essential to adhere to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Q4. What is Dydrogesterone used for?

Ans. Dydrogesterone is used for reproductive health concerns such as hormone replacement therapy, menstrual cycle regulation, endometriosis treatment and preventing miscarriages by strengthening the lining.

Q5. Is progesterone and Dydrogesterone same?

Ans. While progesterone occurs naturally in the body, Dydrogesterone is a form crafted to imitate progesterone functions without some side effects linked with other synthetic progestogens.

Q6. Is Dydrogesterone good for preventing a miscarriage?

Ans. In instances, Dydrogesterone has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing miscarriages, primarily when related to progesterone deficiency. Supplementing hormones in pregnancy aids in improving outcomes during this period.

Q7. Who should not take Dydrogesterone?

Ans. People who have had reactions to Dydrogesterone, unexplained vaginal bleeding, severe liver issues or a history of hormone cancers should steer clear of using Dydrogesterone as it may worsen these conditions.

Q8. What if I forget a dose?

Ans. If a dose is forgotten, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to catch up; maintain the regular dosing schedule.

Q9. Does Dydrogesterone cause breast changes?

Ans. Dydrogesterone might cause breast tenderness or changes as a side effect in some users. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve with continued use or upon medication discontinuation.

Q10. Can I take both progesterone and Dydrogesterone?

Ans. Yes. Progesterone and Dydrogesterone can be taken together but under strict medical supervision to ensure hormone levels are balanced. 

Q11. When is the best time to take Dydrogesterone?

Ans. The healthcare provider usually recommends the best time to take progesterone. They advise to take the medication often at the same time each day.