Prometrium Uses

Prometrium can be used to cause a period in women who have stopped having menstrual periods before menopause. The drug can also be used to prevent an excessive buildup of the lining of the uterus. In some cases, Prometrium is used for off-label purposes, such as supplementing progesterone during pregnancy or being used as part of infertility treatment.

 

What Is Prometrium Used For?

Prometrium® (progesterone capsules) is a prescription hormone medication that is a bio-identical progesterone. It is approved to:
 
  • Cause a period in women who stopping having menstrual periods before menopause (secondary amenorrhea)
  • Prevent abnormal thickening of the lining of the uterus in women taking estrogen hormone replacement therapy.
     

Using Prometrium for Secondary Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea is the medical term for the absence of menstrual periods in a woman before menopause. It can be either primary (periods never start during puberty) or secondary (an absence of periods for six months or more in a woman who has previously had menstrual periods). Secondary amenorrhea can be caused by several different problems or situations, including (but not limited to):
 
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Hormone imbalances, including thyroid problems
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Certain medications
  • Excessive exercise
  • Eating disorders.
     
Stopping Prometrium after taking it for a short often causes a period, depending on the cause of the amenorrhea. The medication is often used in the diagnostic process to help a healthcare provider determine what exactly is causing the absence of periods. It is also useful for causing periods (either regularly every month or less often) to help prevent an excessive buildup of the lining of the uterus, which may cause severe bleeding and cramping when a period finally occurs, as well as to mimic the natural menstrual cycle (when used in combination with an estrogen medication).
 
(Prometrium Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;