Progesterone (Prometrium) tips from pharmacists

• If you are taking progesterone oral capsules, food affects the absorption of the oral capsules; therefore, you should take progesterone the same way every day, either with food or on an empty stomach.

• If you have difficulty swallowing progesterone capsules, it is recommended that you take them with a full glass of water while standing up. Doing so will help the capsules get to your stomach easier.

• One of the most common adverse effects of progesterone is dizziness and drowsiness. You should take this medication at bedtime to minimize this effect.

• Progesterone dosing varies depending on the indication (what you are taking it for); use progesterone exactly as your doctor prescribes.

• You should be taught how to administer the progesterone injection at home. You should let your doctor or pharmacist know if you still have questions or concerns regarding preparation and injection techniques.

• Make sure you use a new syringe and needle for each administration of progesterone injection. You should be provided with a sharp container to discard used needles and syringes. If you are not provided with one, you can use a strong plastic container such as empty milk jugs. Please do not throw used needles and syringes in the regular trash. 

• Let your doctor know if you have a peanut or sesame allergy. Oral progesterone capsules contain peanuts, and some progesterone injections contain sesame oil. Your pharmacist can ensure you get the version of progesterone injections that do not have sesame oil.

• If you take progesterone to regulate your menstrual cycles, you should have your period within 7 days after the last capsule or 3 days after the last injection. Let your doctor know if you don’t get a period at this point. If you have been sexually active, you should take a pregnancy test. 

• Progesterone may look similar to some candies; ensure that progesterone capsules are stored away from the reach of children to avoid accidental ingestion.