PROLET-N B/L

• Stabilises the endometrium, reducing heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Effective for the short-term postponement of a period, taken from three days before it is due.
• Used in the management of endometriosis, where it suppresses ectopic endometrial tissue.
• Useful in regulating irregular cycles and in treating dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
• A non-surgical option for menstrual disorders that can be tried before more invasive treatment.

Not everyone gets these. Most are mild and settle as the course finishes.

• Norethisterone increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, particularly at higher doses. Contraindicated in active or previous thromboembolic disease and in known thrombophilia; use with caution in obesity, smoking and immobility.
• Contraindicated in pregnancy, in undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, in severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease, and in hormone-dependent malignancy.
• Abnormal uterine bleeding needs a diagnosis. Fibroids, polyps, thyroid disease, bleeding disorders and endometrial pathology all require different management, and treating symptomatically can delay it.
• Post-menopausal bleeding, or bleeding between periods, requires investigation before hormonal treatment.
• Not a contraceptive at the doses used for menstrual disorders — the patient still needs contraception if that is required.
• Use with caution in a history of depression, which can recur or worsen.
• Stop and seek assessment immediately for signs of a clot, migraine with aura, or jaundice.
• Use in breastfeeding only on medical advice.