Aygestin (norethindrone acetate) is a progestin that acts on progesterone receptors in reproductive tissues and the brain. Clinically, it is used to treat secondary amenorrhea (when menstruation stops for reasons other than pregnancy, menopause, or certain medical conditions), abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) due to hormonal imbalance when no structural cause is found, and endometriosis. In AUB and amenorrhea, Aygestin helps convert and stabilize the endometrium (uterine lining), restoring more predictable cycles or prompting a withdrawal bleed after a short course. In endometriosis, it suppresses hormonal stimulation of endometrial implants, which can reduce inflammatory signaling, pelvic pain, dyspareunia, and cyclical bleeding.
Key points about what Aygestin does and does not do: it is not approved as contraception; while it can suppress ovulation in some people, it should not be relied upon for pregnancy prevention. It is distinct from the “mini-pill” norethindrone 0.35 mg used for birth control. Many patients experience symptom relief within the first cycle for AUB or within weeks to months for endometriosis. Because individual hormone responses vary, clinicians tailor dose, regimen length, and monitoring. Always rule out pregnancy and structural causes of bleeding (fibroids, polyps, malignancy) before starting therapy for AUB.
Use Aygestin exactly as prescribed. Typical evidence-based regimens include: for secondary amenorrhea, 2.5–10 mg once daily for 5–10 days; for abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance (after excluding structural causes), 2.5–10 mg once daily for 5–10 days. A withdrawal bleed generally occurs 3–7 days after the last tablet. Your prescriber may repeat cycles or adjust timing based on your bleeding pattern, goals (for example, regulating cycles), and response. For endometriosis, many start with 5 mg daily for 2 weeks, then increase by 2.5 mg per day every 2 weeks up to a typical maximum of 15 mg daily, for 6–9 months as tolerated; the aim is symptom control with the lowest effective dose.
Administration tips: take Aygestin at the same time each day, with or without food. Consistency helps steady serum levels and may reduce spotting. If stomach upset occurs, try taking it with a small snack. Do not split or crush tablets unless your pharmacist confirms it’s appropriate for your specific product. Keep a symptom and bleeding diary (or app) to share with your clinician—this can guide dosing tweaks, especially for endometriosis or persistent AUB.
Expectations and follow-up: for cyclic short courses (amenorrhea or AUB), your clinician may recheck you after 1–3 cycles to confirm predictable bleeding and exclude new causes if bleeding is heavy or prolonged. With endometriosis, pain relief often builds over weeks; breakthrough bleeding can occur during dose escalation. Seek medical advice if bleeding becomes very heavy (e.g., soaking a pad or tampon hourly for several hours), if you develop severe pelvic pain, or if you notice signs of anemia (fatigue, dizziness, pallor). Never self-increase dose without medical guidance.
Pregnancy and lactation: do not use Aygestin if you are pregnant; rule out pregnancy prior to initiation for amenorrhea or AUB. If you become pregnant, stop the medication and contact your clinician. During breastfeeding, low-dose norethindrone used for contraception is generally compatible with lactation, but the higher doses used in Aygestin may reduce milk supply in some individuals—discuss risks and benefits with your pediatrician and OB-GYN before starting.
Clotting and cardiovascular risk: while progestin-only therapy generally carries a lower thromboembolic risk than estrogen-containing regimens, it is not risk-free. Use caution if you have major risk factors for venous thromboembolism (prior clot, major surgery with prolonged immobilization, known thrombophilia), cerebrovascular disease, or cardiovascular disease. Stop the medication and seek urgent care for symptoms suggestive of a clot or stroke (chest pain, leg swelling/pain, sudden shortness of breath, severe headache, focal weakness, vision or speech changes).
Other cautions: Aygestin can cause fluid retention and may worsen conditions like migraine, epilepsy, asthma, cardiac or renal dysfunction; close monitoring may be warranted. It can affect glucose tolerance and lipids—people with diabetes or prediabetes should monitor blood sugars and review targets with their clinician. Progestins can influence mood; if you have a history of depression, monitor for worsening mood or new-onset depressive symptoms and report promptly. Rarely, visual disturbances, jaundice, or severe headaches can occur—these warrant prompt evaluation. Smoking and obesity elevate overall vascular risk; lifestyle counseling can complement therapy.
Do not use Aygestin if you are pregnant; have undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding; have active or a history of venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism) or arterial thromboembolism (stroke, myocardial infarction); have significant liver disease or liver tumors; have known or suspected hormone-sensitive malignancy such as breast cancer (unless a specialist explicitly recommends use); or if you have a known hypersensitivity to norethindrone acetate or any tablet component. For AUB, structural causes (polyps, fibroids, hyperplasia, malignancy) must be excluded before treatment.
Common side effects include breakthrough bleeding or spotting, changes in bleeding pattern, headache, nausea, breast tenderness, bloating, mild acne, dizziness, fatigue, and mood changes. Some people notice weight fluctuation or changes in libido. These effects often improve after the first cycles or with dose adjustments. Keeping a symptom log helps your clinician balance benefits and tolerability.
Serious adverse effects are uncommon but require immediate medical attention: symptoms of a blood clot or stroke, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, one-sided leg swelling or pain, new severe migraine, sudden vision changes, jaundice or dark urine, severe depression or suicidal thoughts, or signs of a severe allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, throat tightness). Report persistent heavy bleeding, missed withdrawal bleeding when expected (to rule out pregnancy), or severe pelvic pain.
Medications and supplements that induce liver enzymes can lower norethindrone levels and reduce effectiveness, increasing bleeding or recurrence of endometriosis pain. Notable inducers include rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentine, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, topiramate, felbamate, and the herbal product St. John’s wort. Strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin) may increase norethindrone exposure and side effects. Alcohol does not have a specific contraindication but may exacerbate dizziness or nausea in some individuals.
Other considerations: hormonal therapies (estrogens, other progestins) may alter bleeding patterns or risks when used together—co-management is needed. Anticoagulants require careful monitoring since hormonal changes can influence coagulation balance. Some antiepileptics and psychotropics have complex interactions; bring an up-to-date medication list—including over-the-counter drugs and supplements—to every visit so your pharmacist and prescriber can screen for conflicts. Never start or stop interacting medications without professional guidance.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up to catch up. Missing doses during cyclic regimens may shift the timing of withdrawal bleeding; if you miss multiple doses and your bleeding pattern changes significantly—or if you think you might be pregnant—contact your clinician.
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, dizziness, and mood changes. There is no specific antidote; management is supportive. If an overdose is suspected, contact your clinician, local emergency services, or Poison Control (in the U.S., 1-800-222-1222) for immediate advice. Keep all medications out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
Store Aygestin at controlled room temperature (generally 20–25°C/68–77°F), protected from moisture, direct light, and excessive heat. Keep tablets in the original, tightly closed container. Do not store in bathrooms where humidity fluctuates. Dispose of unused or expired medication through take-back programs or according to pharmacist instructions—do not flush unless specifically directed.
In the United States, Aygestin (norethindrone acetate) is an FDA-approved, prescription-only medication. Federal and state laws require a valid prescription from a licensed clinician to dispense it. While online ads may imply otherwise, purchasing prescription drugs without a prescription is not legal or safe. If you are seeking treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding, amenorrhea, or endometriosis, the appropriate pathway is an evaluation to confirm the diagnosis, rule out structural causes, and then—if clinically appropriate—initiate Aygestin with monitoring.
Magoffin County Health Department offers a legal, structured way to access care: they can connect you with licensed providers who assess your symptoms, review your medical history and medications, and, when indicated, prescribe Aygestin. You do not need to arrive with an outside paper prescription—evaluation and prescribing can occur within the clinic or via compliant telehealth, ensuring you receive the right medication, dose, and follow-up plan. This approach keeps you within U.S. regulations while making care more convenient.
Practical next steps: schedule an appointment for assessment; bring your medication list and menstrual/pain diary; discuss goals (cycle regulation, pain reduction), fertility plans, and risk factors; and ask about cost-saving options, including generics and pharmacy discount programs. If Aygestin is appropriate, your clinician will provide a prescription and monitoring plan. For residents served by Magoffin County Health Department, contact their office to learn about appointment availability, telehealth options, and referrals to partnering pharmacies that can dispense your medication once prescribed.
Aygestin is the brand name for norethindrone acetate, a progestin. It stabilizes the uterine lining, reduces estrogen-driven growth of endometrial tissue, and can suppress ovulation signals, which helps control abnormal bleeding and endometriosis symptoms.
It is commonly prescribed for abnormal uterine bleeding, secondary amenorrhea (to induce a withdrawal bleed), and endometriosis-related pain and bleeding. Clinicians may also use it off-label to delay periods or manage bleeding from fibroids.
No. At therapeutic doses it is not approved or reliable as contraception. You should use a separate contraceptive method unless your prescriber has specifically advised otherwise.
Many patients see lighter bleeding within 24–72 hours and fuller control within about a week. If heavy bleeding persists, worsens, or you feel unwell (e.g., dizzy, pale), contact your clinician promptly.
Dosing depends on the condition. For a short course to induce a withdrawal bleed, typical daily doses range from 2.5–10 mg for 5–10 days. For endometriosis, dosing often starts at 5 mg daily and may be increased. Take it at the same time each day and follow your prescriber’s instructions.
A withdrawal bleed commonly starts 2–7 days after the last tablet. Flow and timing vary by person and dose used.
Nausea, breast tenderness, bloating, headache, mood changes, acne or oily skin, spotting or breakthrough bleeding, fatigue, fluid retention, and appetite or weight changes are the most reported.
Seek urgent care for symptoms of blood clots (leg swelling or pain, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath), severe headache or vision changes, jaundice or severe abdominal pain, severe mood changes, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Do not use if you are pregnant, have undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, active or past blood clots or stroke, certain hormone-sensitive cancers (such as breast cancer), severe liver disease, or a known allergy to its ingredients. Review your full history with your clinician.
It may be used short term to induce a withdrawal bleed, but it does not improve ovulation and is not for use in pregnancy. Typically you stop Aygestin before attempting conception; discuss timing with your clinician.
Progestin-only medicines are generally compatible with breastfeeding, especially after the early postpartum weeks. Small amounts pass into milk; some notice milk supply changes at higher doses. Discuss risks and benefits for your situation.
Fertility generally returns quickly after discontinuation, often within one or two cycles, though timing varies by underlying condition and duration of use.
Enzyme inducers such as rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, topiramate, and St. John’s wort can lower progestin levels. Some HIV and hepatitis C antivirals may interact. If you take warfarin, monitoring may be needed. Always share your full medication and supplement list.
Take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If it is near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up. A missed dose may trigger spotting.
Yes. Continuous progestin therapy often suppresses menstruation and endometrial tissue activity, reducing pelvic pain and bleeding. If symptoms persist, your clinician may adjust the dose or suggest alternatives.
Yes, this is an off-label use. Starting before the expected period and continuing daily can delay bleeding. Your clinician can advise the optimal timing and dose for your cycle.
Both are progestins effective for stopping and regulating bleeding and inducing withdrawal bleeds. Aygestin is often preferred when acne or androgenic effects are acceptable, while Provera can cause more bloating or appetite changes in some. Choice typically depends on prior response, side-effect profile, and clinician preference.
They serve different roles. Aygestin is a short-acting oral progestin used for cycle control and endometriosis; it is not reliable contraception. Depo-Provera is a long-acting contraceptive injection effective for 3 months, often suppressing periods, but it can reduce bone mineral density with long-term use and delay return of fertility. The best option depends on your goals and risk factors.
Micronor is a low-dose progestin-only contraceptive taken at the same time daily to prevent pregnancy; it is not designed to treat heavy bleeding or endometriosis. Aygestin is a higher-dose norethindrone acetate used therapeutically to control bleeding and pain, not as a primary contraceptive.
For long-term control of heavy menstrual bleeding, the levonorgestrel IUD is often superior, with strong local endometrial suppression, high patient satisfaction, and reliable contraception. Aygestin works well for short- to medium-term medical management or when an IUD is not desired or suitable.
Prometrium is bioidentical progesterone used commonly in menopausal hormone therapy and luteal support; it can be sedating and contains peanut oil in some formulations. Aygestin is a synthetic progestin more commonly used to control abnormal bleeding and treat endometriosis. Selection depends on indication, side effects, and contraindications.
Both reduce endometriosis pain. Dienogest is formulated specifically for endometriosis and may have a more favorable bleeding pattern and fewer androgenic skin effects for some. Aygestin is widely available and cost-effective, with similar pain control in many patients. Choice often depends on availability, cost, and individual response.
They are closely related. Aygestin is norethindrone acetate (common in the U.S.), while Primolut N/Utovlan are norethisterone (norethindrone) products used in many countries. Both are progestins used for period delay and bleeding control; dosing equivalence and labeling vary by region.
Both are progestins, but megestrol is mainly used for appetite stimulation and certain cancer-related indications. It can cause significant weight gain and adrenal suppression. Aygestin is preferred for gynecologic uses like abnormal bleeding and endometriosis.
Slynd is a progestin-only contraceptive with a 24-hour missed-pill window and anti-mineralocorticoid activity; it is for pregnancy prevention, not primarily for heavy bleeding or endometriosis. Aygestin is for therapeutic cycle control and pain. Slynd may raise potassium in susceptible patients, which Aygestin typically does not.
Nexplanon is a long-acting contraceptive implant effective for up to 3 years; it can lighten or sometimes irregularize bleeding. Aygestin is a short-acting oral therapy targeted at bleeding control and endometriosis symptoms without reliable contraception. Choose based on need for long-term birth control and tolerance of bleeding patterns.
Both can be used in high-dose protocols to rapidly stabilize the endometrium. Clinical response times are similar, with improvement often within 24–72 hours. The choice usually reflects clinician familiarity, patient history, and side-effect considerations.
No. Levonorgestrel emergency contraception is a single high dose intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Aygestin is not used for emergency contraception and should not replace it.