What is Aygestin (Norethindrone) prescribed for?

This medication is used to treat various ailments that happen in women. Usually it is used as a treatment for women with abnormal bleeding from the uterus. It is also used to treat women who have stopped having their periods for several months, although they are not pregnant or going through menopause.  Furthermore, Aygestin is also used to treat a condition, known as endometriosis.  What this does is causes the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus, and moves it to the outside of the uterus into the abdomen/pelvic area. Which in turn causes painful menstrual cycles and irregular periods.

Norethindrone is a female hormone known as progestin, which is similar to progesterone, which is made by your body naturally.  This medication works simply by stopping the normal growth of the uterus lining during your menstrual cycle and signals hormone changes to the uterus to help restore normal menstrual periods.

This medication can be taken by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor.  It is best to take this mediation before or after a meal to help prevent an upset stomach.

Being that this medication is a treatment surrounding menstrual periods and abnormal bleeding from the uterus, it is best to take this medication once daily for 5 to 10 days during the second half of your menstrual cycle. Withdrawal bleeding usually occurs within 3 to 7 days after you have stopped taking the medication.

Before taking Aygestin (Norethindrone) inform you doctor if you are allergic to it, or to any other medications. Also to let him know of any other allergies that you may have in general.

Be sure to notify you doctor of all of you medical history, especially of those listed below; blood clots, history of bleeding in the brain, liver disease, history of cancer of the breast or other female organs, vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, a loss of pregnancy with some tissue remaining in the uterus ("missed abortion"), recent stroke or heart attack (within 1 year)

Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Be sure to speak with your doctor right away if the follow occurs; blood clots, history of bleeding in the brain, liver disease, history of cancer of the breast or other female organs, vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, a loss of pregnancy with some tissue remaining in the uterus ("missed abortion"), recent stroke or heart attack (within 1 year)

Your doctor has prescribed this medication for you because they believe the benefit you will receive is greater than the risk of any side effect. Most people using this medication do not have serious side effects. However it is best to notify your doctor right away if you start receiving these side effects listed; Nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, mood swings, trouble sleeping, weight gain/loss, acne, breast swelling/tenderness, change in sexual interest, unwanted hair growth, or hair loss may occur.

Some side effects may may be serious, if any of these occur, seek medical attention right away; changes in vaginal bleeding (e.g., spotting, breakthrough bleeding, changes in menstrual flow, no menstrual bleeding), change in vaginal discharge, depression, swelling of the hands/feet, frequent/burning/painful urination, yellowing eyes/skin, dark patches on the skin or face (melasma).

This medication may rarely cause a serious problem with blood clots. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following: chest/jaw/left arm pain, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, sudden vision changes (e.g., blurred/double vision, loss of vision, bulging eyes), confusion, sudden severe headache, severe dizziness, fainting, trouble breathing, coughing up blood, pain/redness/swelling/weakness of the arms/legs, calf pain/swelling that is warm to the touch.

 What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.