There has been regular discussion over the years about the effectiveness of taking half the dose of progesterone (Utrogestan) when used vaginally.
Some of the papers whose abstracts are quoted at the beginning of this thread, form the basis of some of the research demonstrating this, which comprise several small studies but with low to medium dose oestrogen.
In view of a recent thread citing Louise Newson's recommendation that half the licensed oral utrogestan dose can be taken if used vaginally, and also because it has been rasied before, I am updating this thread with what she actually says on her page.
Here is Dr Newson's information:
https://www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/menopause/micronised-progesterone-or-utrogestan"
How is Utrogestan taken?
Utrogestan is given as a 100 mg capsule. There are two ways of taking Utrogestan.
? For women who have still had periods in the last 6-12 months, the usual recommended dose is two 100mg capsules, taken together each evening, for two out of four weeks, on a repeating basis.
? For women who have not had a period for over a year, the usual recommended dose is taking one 100mg capsule every evening, without a break.
The dosage information that comes with the medication differs slightly to this, but it is far more straightforward to take it in this way and easier to remember. It is completely safe to take it in the way we have described.
Utrogestan is a natural sedative so can cause drowsiness in some women. It is therefore recommended you take it at bedtime. It is best to take Utrogestan on an empty stomach because eating food can actually increase its absorption.
Some women use the progesterone vaginally rather than taking it orally, which can be associated with less side effects. Evidence has shown that using 100mg progesterone vaginally alternate evenings as a continuous (no bleed) preparation or 100mg progesterone vaginally every evening for 12-14 days each month as a cyclical (leading to periods) preparation is safe.
Many women use the oral Utrogestan capsules vaginally or some women use Cyclogest pessaries (these contain 200mg progesterone and can be cut in half). Progesterone is not licensed to be used in this way but there is evidence to support that this is safe. Women who use it in this way should seek individualised advice from their doctor."Hurdity x
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Topic: Vaginal progesterone inc Utrogestan, and endometrial protection: some studies (Read 13305 times)