Norethisterone
Also sold as: Primolut N, Regestrone
Prescription neededFamily planning and hormones
Comes as:Tablet
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor. To delay a period: 5 mg three times a day starting 3 days before the expected period. For heavy bleeding: usually 5 mg two to three times a day for 10 days.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- nausea
- breast tenderness
- headache
- bloating
- spotting
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- pain or swelling in one leg
- chest pain or sudden shortness of breath
- yellow eyes or skin
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Pregnancy
- Previous blood clot, stroke or heart attack
- Serious liver disease
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding (see a doctor first)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Moderate2 medicinesTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Carbamazepine
Carbamazepine lowers norethisterone levels and can make it less effective.
- Rifampicin
Rifampicin lowers norethisterone levels and can make it less effective.