Drug Name

Aygestin (Norethindrone)

Drug Uses

Aygestin is used for treating certain menstrual problems or uterine problems (e.g., abnormal bleeding, endometriosis). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How to use

Use Aygestin as directed by your doctor.

• Take Aygestin by mouth with or without food.
• Take Aygestin at the same time every day, with doses not more than 24 hours apart.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Aygestin.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Aygestin is a progestin hormone. It works by altering the lining of the uterus.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Aygestin and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Aygestin at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Aygestin out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Aygestin if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Aygestin;
• you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant;
• you have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding or are postmenopausal;
• you have a history of blood clotting problems, severe blood clots (e.g., in the lungs, legs, eyes), certain blood vessel problems (e.g., bleeding in the brain, heart attack, stroke), or breast cancer;
• you have decreased liver function or active liver disease.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important:

• Aygestin may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Aygestin with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
• Aygestin may cause dark skin patches on your face. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Aygestin. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.
• Aygestin may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are taking Aygestin.
• Diabetes patients - Aygestin may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.
• Aygestin should not be used in children; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Do not use Aygestin if you are pregnant. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Aygestin is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Aygestin, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• acne; changes in menstrual flow, including breakthrough bleeding, spotting, or missed periods; dizziness; drowsiness; fever; headache; hot flashes; nausea; nervousness; pain; rash; stomach pain; trouble sleeping; weakness; weight gain or loss.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; depression; lumps in the breast or under the armpits; migraine headache; partial or complete loss of vision or changes in vision; shortness of breath; slurred speech; sudden loss of coordination; sudden or severe headache; sudden severe headache, dizziness, vomiting, or fainting; swelling of fingers or ankles; tenderness, pain, or swelling of the calf; weakness, numbness, or pain in the arms or legs; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

More Information

Aygestin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.