How To Take Utrogestan?

Utrogestan is a type of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) used to treat symptoms of Menopause. You can take Utrogestan 100mg alongside oestrogen to relieve symptoms such as changes in mood, night sweats, and irritability.

You must be prescribed Utrogestan by a doctor. This article looks at how to take Utrogestan safely and effectively.

Steps to Take Utrogestan

• Swallow each capsule whole, making sure not to chew or break it
• Take it with a glass of water and your oestrogen treatment
• Only take it at bedtime
• Do not take it with food

Read the patient information leaflet for more advice on how to take Utrogestan.

Forms and Dosage

Utrogestan comes in the form of an oral capsule that should be taken by mouth. You can also find Utrogestan as a vaginal tablet, but this is for IVF and pregnancy treatment only.

The typical dosage is 2 capsules (200mg) at bedtime for 12 days, on days 15 to 26 of your monthly HRT cycle. You may also be prescribed a lower dose of 1 capsule (100mg) at bedtime, from day 1 to 25 of each monthly HRT cycle. Your doctor will try the lowest dose to manage your symptoms, but let them know if you think your dose is too high or too low.

Whichever dose you are prescribed, you will have a short break between packs. This usually causes a breakthrough bleed, where the lining of your womb sheds, much like a period.

Can You Take Utrogestan Every Day?

Utrogestan is not prescribed every day. No matter which dosage you take, there is always a short break between packs. This helps to prevent womb cancer and other health issues that can be caused by a build-up of the lining.

Optimal Timing

The best time to take Utrogestan is at bedtime, as it can cause mild drowsiness. If you don’t get this side effect, you may be able to take it in the morning. Utrogestan should always be taken with your oestrogen.

Can I Take Utrogestan in the Morning?

You might be able to take Utrogestan in the morning but speak to your doctor first to see if you can tolerate it.

How to Take Utrogestan: Empty Stomach vs With Food

Utrogestan should be taken without food, around 2 hours after you’ve eaten.

What happens if I take Utrogestan with food?

Taking Utrogestan on an empty stomach is recommended by both the NHS and the manufacturer, as it can increase drowsiness if taken with food. Taking progesterone with food can also increase its absorption, which is how quickly the medication starts working.

Other Considerations

If you are due to have surgery, let your surgeon know you are taking HRT. If you forget to take Utrogestan, take your dose as soon as you can. If your next dose is nearly due, skip your missed dose then carry on as normal. Don’t take a double dose to make up for a missed dose, as this will only increase the risk of side effects.

What should I do if I take more Utrogestan than I should?

If you take more Utrogestan than prescribed to you, speak to your doctor or go to the hospital. Take your medication packet with you.

You may feel drowsy, sleepy, or dizzy, so do not drive to the hospital yourself.

Conclusion

Utrogestan 100mg capsules should be taken at bedtime, once a day, and without food. Your prescribed dose will either be 1 or 2 capsules, for 12 or 25 days. You’ll always have a short break, which may cause breakthrough bleeding. Utrogestan is to be taken alongside an oestrogen.

If you have menopause symptoms that are impacting your life, speak to your doctor or one of our prescribers about a personalised HRT plan. You can also find out more information on HRT treatments or Utrogestan on our website.

Authored & Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Published on: 11/09/2023 Reviewed on: 29/11/2023