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Norethisterone

Norethisterone

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Norethisterone period delay tablets are a synthetic version of a hormone that behaves like the naturally occurring hormone progesterone and delays a female's period for up to 17 days if necessary. Norethisterone tablets keep the hormone levels high, delaying menstruation until after you stop taking the medication, when hormone levels drop. It's suitable for women who need to postpone their period and contains the active ingredient norethisterone.

  • Norethisterone tablets can delay for up to 17 days
  • Effective period delay tablets
  • Generic cheaper version of Utovlan
Women's Health
Period Delay Tablets
Price
£7.99

Norethisterone

Strength: 5mg

Pack Size: 30

£7.99

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Buy Norethisterone Online

Norethisterone tablets, sold under the brand name Utovlan, are a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone, used to regulate periods. Norethisterone tablets act as a supplement to progesterone, keeping levels high so that the uterine wall does not shed as it does in a usual period, and will so prevent bleeding.

At Pharmacy Online, you can order norethisterone online in order to delay your period for up to 17 days. After completing an assessment with our team, you can order norethisterone from our online pharmacy.

When to Take Norethisterone Tablets?

Norethisterone is a popular treatment for both delaying a period and treating heavy periods:

  • Delaying A Period: If you're going on holiday or need to delay a period for any other reason, you may be able to take Norethisterone. Your period will usually begin two to three days after you stop using the tablets.
  • Heavy Periods: Individuals with heavy periods can also benefit from using Norethisterone tablets. This can be one-off bleeding or for people who experience frequent heavy bleeding during their menstrual cycles.
  • Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition that causes painful periods and heavy bleeding. Norethisterone tablets can reduce your symptoms.

Norethisterone Tablets Age Restrictions

Norethisterone tablets are mostly safe for adults between 18 and 50. However, anyone of menstrual age can take it, as long as a GP or registered pharmacist says it's safe to do so.

If you're over 50, you'll need an in-depth consultation to determine whether the treatment is right for you.

How to Take Norethisterone?

How you take Norethisterone tablets depends on what you're using them for, as the instructions differ.

Norethisterone to Delay Periods

Most people will take one 5mg tablet three times daily. It's essential to begin taking the tablets three days before your period is due, as it gives them time to work and stop your menstrual cycle.

You can continue the dose for up to 20 days. Once you stop taking it, your period will usually begin within two to three days.

Heavy Bleeding

If you use Norethisterone for heavy bleeding, you'll probably take one 5mg tablet three times daily. Some people use it only once, but you can use it each month if you have heavy periods.

You'll usually start the medication on a certain day of your cycle, then continue to take it for around 8 to 12 days.

Your GP or pharmacist will assess your menstrual cycle and let you know which day to begin taking it.

Endometriosis

Individuals with endometriosis will take 15mg of Norethisterone daily - often broken up into three 5mg doses.

The initial treatment period is six months; after that, your GP will assess whether it's achieving the desired outcome.

When to Avoid Using Norethisterone?

Norethisterone isn't suitable for everyone, and there are some situations where you should avoid taking it. These include:

  • Pregnancy: Taking Norethisterone when you're pregnant can harm the baby. You should also avoid using it if you're trying to conceive.
  • Blood Clots: If you have a history of blood clots or are at high risk of them, due to Deep Vein Thrombosis, Norethisterone isn't suitable for you.
  • Liver Tumours/Disease: Individuals with a history of liver disease or tumours could put themselves at risk of complications.
  • Cancer History: If you have a personal or family history of certain cancers, including hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer, you should avoid using Norethisterone.
  • Allergies: If you're sensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients in Norethisterone, please avoid taking it.
  • Unexplained Vaginal Bleeding: A GP or specialist should assess what's causing your unexpected bleeding before prescribing the medication.

Precautions for Norethisterone

The following conditions don't instantly rule out Norethisterone, but you'll need to speak to a doctor first:

  • Migraines with Aura: Certain hormonal treatments can increase the risk of strokes in people who experience migraines with aura (visual disturbances and seeing flashing lights).
  • High BMI: People who are classed as obese also have a higher risk of blood clots.
  • Smoking: If you're over 35 and smoke, you're more at risk of blood clots with hormonal medication.
  • Diabetes: Norethisterone can interfere with your blood sugar levels. You can still take Norethisterone, but your condition should be monitored regularly.

Individuals with high blood pressure, asthma, epilepsy, or a history of mental health issues should also take precautions when taking Norethisterone tablets.

Ingredients of Norethisterone

Norethisterone (5mg) is the active ingredient. It's a synthetic form of progesterone, a natural female hormone that belongs to the progestogen class of medicines.

Inactive Ingredients:

  • Lactose
  • Magnesium Stearate
  • Maize Starch

Side Effects of Norethisterone

There is always a risk of side effects with all medications, and Norethisterone 5mg period delay pills are no exception. Some of these can be quite mild and can subside over time.

Others are more serious and should be reported to your GP right away if you experience any side effects.

Please contact a member of our team if you are concerned about any potential side effects when taking Norethisterone 5mg period delay tablets.

Some common side effects reported with Norethisterone use include:

  • Weight change
  • Diarrhoea
  • Fatigue
  • Menstrual cycle irregularities
  • Breast tenderness
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Rash

If you experience any painful, hot swelling in the lower leg, stop taking Norethisterone immediately and seek medical attention.

Leaflets

Before taking any medicines, whether over-the-counter or prescription-only, it is essential to always read the Patient Information Leaflet.

If you have any questions or need advice, please contact our registered pharmacists today. We're always happy to help and will issue a private prescription once we determine whether Norethisterone is right for your needs.

Patient Information Leaflet

Umar Razzaq, MPharm | University of Strathclyde, Clinical Pharmacist.
Content Written by:Umar RazzaqMPharm | University Of Strathclyde
Date Written:01/03/2024
Role:Clinical Pharmacist
Nish Fayyaz, MPharm | University of Strathclyde, Pharmacist.
Medically Reviewed By:Nish FayyazMPharm | University Of Strathclyde
Date Checked:30/05/2025
Role:Pharmacist
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