Norethisterone
Norethisterone is a hormone (progestogen) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Primolut-N. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
What it is used for
Used to delay periods or treat heavy or irregular periods.
How it works
A progestogen hormone used to delay or regulate periods, treat heavy bleeding and endometriosis.
How to take it
To delay a period: 5 mg three times a day starting 3 days before it is due; the period comes 2 to 3 days after stopping. Other uses as prescribed.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Bloating
- Mood changes
Get medical help straight away if
- Pain or swelling in one leg, chest pain or breathlessness (clot)
- Yellow skin
- Severe headache
Be careful
Not a contraceptive at these doses; caution with clotting history.
Other medicines and interactions
Anti-epileptics and rifampicin reduce its effect. It is not reliable contraception when used to delay periods.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Must not be taken in pregnancy; not recommended while breastfeeding.
Brands of Norethisterone (1)
Common questions
What is Norethisterone used for?
Used to delay periods or treat heavy or irregular periods.
How does Norethisterone work?
A progestogen hormone used to delay or regulate periods, treat heavy bleeding and endometriosis.
How should I take Norethisterone?
To delay a period: 5 mg three times a day starting 3 days before it is due; the period comes 2 to 3 days after stopping. Other uses as prescribed.
What are the side effects of Norethisterone?
Common: Nausea, breast tenderness, headache, bloating, mood changes. Get help straight away for: Pain or swelling in one leg, chest pain or breathlessness (clot), yellow skin, severe headache.
Does Norethisterone interact with other medicines?
Anti-epileptics and rifampicin reduce its effect. It is not reliable contraception when used to delay periods.
Is Norethisterone safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Must not be taken in pregnancy; not recommended while breastfeeding.
Does Norethisterone 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 Norethisterone?
Primolut-N.
Sources and further reading
- Norethisterone: NHS · MedlinePlus
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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