Dydrogesterone

Hormone (progestogen)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Dydrogesterone is a hormone (progestogen) found in 2 medicines sold in India, such as Duphaston, Dydroboon. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Supports pregnancy, regulates periods and treats endometriosis.

How it works

A progestogen used for threatened or recurrent miscarriage, irregular periods, endometriosis and in IVF.

How to take it

Usually 10 mg once to three times a day, as prescribed.

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness
  • Spotting

Get medical help straight away if

  • Pain or swelling in one leg, chest pain or breathlessness
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Severe headache

Be careful

Use only as prescribed; report unusual bleeding.

Other medicines and interactions

Enzyme-inducing medicines (rifampicin, carbamazepine) reduce its effect.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Used in pregnancy only on a doctor's prescription.

Brands of Dydrogesterone (2)

DuphastonDydroboon

Common questions

What is Dydrogesterone used for?

Supports pregnancy, regulates periods and treats endometriosis.

How does Dydrogesterone work?

A progestogen used for threatened or recurrent miscarriage, irregular periods, endometriosis and in IVF.

How should I take Dydrogesterone?

Usually 10 mg once to three times a day, as prescribed.

What are the side effects of Dydrogesterone?

Common: Headache, nausea, breast tenderness, spotting. Get help straight away for: Pain or swelling in one leg, chest pain or breathlessness, heavy bleeding, severe headache.

Does Dydrogesterone interact with other medicines?

Enzyme-inducing medicines (rifampicin, carbamazepine) reduce its effect.

Is Dydrogesterone safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Used in pregnancy only on a doctor's prescription.

Does Dydrogesterone need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Dydrogesterone?

Duphaston, Dydroboon.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.