Key facts about Aygestin
What is Aygestin?
Aygestin is the brand name for norethindrone acetate and is available as an oral tablet.
What dosages is Aygestin available in?
Aygestin is available as a 5 mg oral tablet.
What is Aygestin used for?
Aygestin is a progestin that is used to treat amenorrhea (ack of menstrual periods) or abnormal bleeding from the uterus due to hormonal imbalance, and endometriosis.
How does Aygestin work?
Aygestin is a progestin, which is a synthetic form of the natural sex hormone progesterone. It regulates the lining of your uterus (endometrium), which then helps manage your period and ease endometriosis-related pain.
How do I take Aygestin?
Aygestin is typically taken by mouth once daily. You may take it for as few as 5 to 10 days or long-term, depending on the condition being treated.
Is it safe for me to take Aygestin?
Aygestin is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not take this medication if you have any of the following:
- Known or suspected pregnancy.
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
- Known, suspected or history of cancer of the breast
- Active deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism or history of these conditions
- Active or recent (e.g., within the past year) arterial thromboembolic disease (e.g., stroke, myocardial infarction)
- Impaired liver function or liver disease
Aygestin Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Aygestin include:
- Breakthrough bleeding or spotting
- Change in menstrual flow
- Lack of periods
- Headache or migraine
- Breast enlargement
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps or bloating
- Patches of darkened skin (melasma or chloasma)
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Yellowing of the skin or whites of eyes (jaundice)
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Changes in vision
Aygestin Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Aygestin. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Blood clots: leg swelling, leg pain, skin that’s warm to the touch, trouble breathing
- Heart attack: chest pain, arm pain, cold sweat, shortness of breath
- Stroke: facial droop, weakness on one side of the body, confusion, sudden, severe headache, trouble speaking, walking, or talking
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Aygestin
- There are no major drug interactions listed for Aygestin. However, you should always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking
Who makes Aygestin?
Barr Pharmaceuticals
Is Aygestin safe in pregnancy?
Aygestin is contraindicated during pregnancy as it may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women.
