Progestogen (female hormone)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Progesterone is a hormone that your body naturally produces. When taken as a medicine, it helps support the lining of the womb (uterus) and plays a key role in preparing the body for pregnancy or regulating your menstrual cycle.
Binds to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus, pituitary, and reproductive tissues, suppressing luteinizing hormone (LH) surge and promoting endometrial proliferation and secretory changes necessary for menstrual regulation, pregnancy support, and hormonal balance.
Irregular periods, absence of menstruation (when your period stops coming), support during fertility treatment (IVF), prevention of miscarriage in early pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy for women going through menopause
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Always buy from a licensed pharmacy; do not purchase hormonal medicines from roadside sellers or unverified online stores, as fake products are common. Do not use progesterone to try to prevent pregnancy on your own; it is not a contraceptive by itself. Follow your doctor's instructions strictly, especially if you are using it for fertility treatment or pregnancy support.
Progesterone may interact with ketoconazole (a common antifungal used in Nigeria) which can increase progesterone levels in your body. It can also interact with some epilepsy drugs like carbamazepine, which may reduce how well progesterone works. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking progesterone capsules as it can worsen dizziness and drowsiness.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Progesterone with your other drugs?
Progesterone is sometimes prescribed during early pregnancy to help prevent miscarriage, but you should only use it if your doctor specifically prescribes it for you; discuss breastfeeding with your doctor as small amounts may pass into breast milk.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on a windowsill or inside a hot car. Keep it in its original packaging and far out of children's reach. If it is the injection form, check with your pharmacist if it needs to be kept in a fridge.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.