Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Prometrium (Progesterone).
Important information about estrogen:
- Estrogen should be used at the lowest dose that relieves your menopausal symptoms for the shortest time period possible.
- You should not use estrogens with or without progestins to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes.
Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Several studies have shown an association between a modest increase in the risk of developing Breast Cancer or ovarian cancer and the use of hormone replacement therapy during Menopause when taken over the long term. Ask your doctor which cancer screening tests you may need and how to perform breast self-examination. Women who have breast nodules, fibrocystic disease, abnormal mammograms, or a strong family history of breast cancer should be closely monitored by their doctor.
Dementia: Women over the age of 65 receiving combined hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progestin) may be at increased risk of developing dementia (loss of memory and intellectual function). If you are over 65, talk to your doctor about whether you should be tested for dementia.
Depression: Hormones, such as Prometrium (Progesterone), have been known to cause mood swings and symptoms of depression. If you have depression or a history of depression, discuss with your doctor how Prometrium (Progesterone) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Prometrium (Progesterone), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
If you experience symptoms of depression such as poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, or notice them in a family member who is taking Prometrium (Progesterone) contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Diabetes: As with other hormone replacement medications, Prometrium (Progesterone) may cause an increase in blood sugar levels and glucose tolerance may change. People with diabetes may find it necessary to monitor their blood sugar more frequently while using Prometrium (Progesterone).
If you have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, discuss with your doctor how Prometrium (Progesterone) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Prometrium (Progesterone), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Follow-up examinations: It is important to have a follow-up examination 3 to 6 months after starting Prometrium (Progesterone) to assess your response to treatment. Examinations should be done at least once a year after the first one.
Heart Disease: Several studies have demonstrated that the use of estrogen and progestins to treat menopausal symptoms is related to an increased risk of heart disease, blood clots, and stroke. If you have risk factors for heart disease or stroke, discuss with your doctor how Prometrium (Progesterone) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Prometrium (Progesterone), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Occupational hazards: Temporary and occasional drowsiness or dizziness may occur for some people 1 to 4 hours after taking Prometrium (Progesterone), particularly if it is taken with food. If this occurs, avoid activities requiring concentration, good coordination, or reflex action such as driving or operating machinery. In most cases, these problems can be prevented by taking the capsules at the recommended times. The 200 mg dosage should be taken at bedtime. The 300 mg dosage should be divided into two doses: 100 mg 2 hours after breakfast and 200 mg at bedtime.
Vaginal bleeding: Prometrium (Progesterone) can cause changes to your normal pattern of vaginal bleeding. If you experience menstrual bleeding that lasts longer or heavier than usual, contact your doctor.
Pregnancy: Do not take Prometrium (Progesterone) during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Prometrium (Progesterone), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Prometrium (Progesterone) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Prometrium (Progesterone), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
