Norethindrone Acetate (Aygestin) Uses

Norethindrone acetate is used to treat endometriosis (a condition in which uterine tissue grows outside the uterus and causes pain, heavy and irregular menstrual bleeding, and other symptoms). It is also used to treat abnormal uterine bleeding and secondary amenorrhea (lack of periods) due to hormonal imbalance in women who have menstruated normally in the past but have not had a menstrual period for at least 3 months, who are not pregnant or menopausal, and who do not have conditions such as fibroids or uterine cancer. 

There may be other uses of norethindrone acetate—your doctor or pharmacist can give you further drug information.

Norethindrone Acetate (Aygestin) Mechanism of Action

Norethindrone acetate prevents the lining of the uterus from growing and causes the release of certain hormones by the uterus.

Norethindrone Acetate (Aygestin) Doses

Norethindrone acetate is available as a 5-mg tablet. The dose depends on the condition being treated. 

For secondary amenorrhea (lack of periods) and abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalances, the typical dose is 2.5 mg to 10 mg daily for 5-10 days. Withdrawal bleeding usually occurs 3-7 days after discontinuing norethindrone acetate. If you have recurrent episodes of abnormal uterine bleeding, your healthcare provider may recommend taking norethindrone acetate for planned menstrual cycling.

To treat endometriosis, the initial dose of norethindrone acetate is 5 mg daily for 2 weeks. This dose is then increased by 2.5 mg per day every 2 weeks until a maintenance dose of 15 mg per day is reached. Treatment is continued for 6-9 months. If breakthrough bleeding is bothersome, temporary discontinuation of treatment may be recommended.