It's important to take Utrogestan as your GP tells you. Always follow the instructions from a pharmacist or GP, or the leaflet in the medicine packet.
Dosage
The usual starting dose of Utrogestan is 2 capsules (200mg) taken once a day, on days 15 to 26 of your 28-day HRT cycle.
You may need a higher dose of Utrogestan if your GP prescribes a high strength of oestrogen.
You'll usually have vaginal bleeding for a few days each cycle after you stop taking Utrogestan. This is normal.
If you have not had a period for 6 to 12 months or more, your GP may recommend that you take 1 capsule (100mg) once a day, on days 1 to 25 of your 28-day HRT cycle.
Sometimes your GP might advise you to take it every day if they think it's OK for you not to have a period.
You may have less bleeding, or none at all, if you take Utrogestan on days 1 to 25 of your cycle. If you take it every day you will not usually have any bleeding when your body gets used to the medicine.
How to take it
Take Utrogestan at bedtime, at least 2 hours after food.
Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water.
You'll also be prescribed an HRT medicine containing oestrogen.
How long to take it for
It's common to take HRT for 2 to 5 years to treat menopause symptoms, but sometimes you may need to take it for longer.
You'll usually be advised to take HRT at least until you're age 51 (the average age of menopause) if you have:
- premature menopause (where your periods stop before age 40)
- early menopause (where your periods stop before age 45)
How long you take HRT for depends on the benefits and risks to you. Ask your GP for advice.
If you have a hysterectomy to remove your womb, you'll need to stop taking Utrogestan.
If you forget to take it
If you forget to take your Utrogestan, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your usual time.
Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed dose.
It may help to write on the packet or use a calendar to help you remember which days to take Utrogestan.
If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicines.
If you take too much
If you take more Utrogestan than you should, talk to your GP or go to a hospital. Bring the Utrogestan packet or leaflet and any remaining medicine with you. You may feel drowsy, dizzy, sleepy or tired.
Stopping Utrogestan
If you stop taking HRT, your menopause symptoms might come back. Talk to your GP if you're thinking of stopping. They'll help you decide what's best for you.
They may suggest that you reduce your dose gradually, to help stop symptoms coming back. If you're having problems with side effects, your GP might suggest changing your dose or switching to another type of HRT.
If you feel Utrogestan does not suit you, talk to your GP. They might suggest changing your dose or switching to another type of HRT.
Important
Never take oestrogen HRT without Utrogestan or another type of progestogen. Taking oestrogen on its own could cause problems with the lining of your womb, such as womb cancer.
If you have surgery
If you are going to have surgery, tell the surgeon that you are using Utrogestan. You may need to stop taking Utrogestan about 4 to 6 weeks before the surgery to reduce the risk of a blood clot.
Ask your GP or surgeon when you can start taking Utrogestan again
Utrogestan and alcohol
You can drink alcohol while taking Utrogestan. But it may be helpful to cut down on alcohol during the menopause to reduce symptoms of flushing and improve your sleep.
Utrogestan and food
You can eat and drink normally while taking Utrogestan, but take your capsules at least 2 hours after eating. Do not take them with food, as this will affect how the medicine works.
Try to have a healthy diet, as this can help with menopause symptoms and keep you well. Cutting down on caffeine may help reduce hot flushes.