Norethindrone

Norethindrone is a progestin medication which is used in birth control pills, menopausal hormone therapy, and for the treatment of gynecological disorders. The medication is available alone or in combination with an estrogen. It is taken by mouth.

Medical uses

Norethindrone is used for birth control to prevent pregnancy. It is also used to treat menstrual disorders, endometriosis, abnormal vaginal bleeding caused by a hormone imbalance, and secondary amenorrhea. Secondary amenorrhea is when a woman stops getting menstrual periods due to low levels of certain female hormones.

Side effects

Common side effects of norethindrone include menstrual irregularities, headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, acne, increased hair growth, and changes in weight. Some women may also experience allergic reactions to norethindrone, such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Pharmacology

Norethindrone is a synthetic form of progesterone, a naturally occurring female hormone. It works by preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation) and by changing the cervical mucus and the lining of the uterus.

History

Norethindrone was discovered in 1951 and was one of the first progestins to be developed. It was first marketed in the United States in 1957 and remains widely used today.

Society and culture

Norethindrone is available as a generic medication. It is also available under a number of brand names, and is included in many combination birth control pills.

See also

• List of progestogens
• List of hormonal contraceptives
• List of medications available in the United States

Norethindrone Resources
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