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Review, 1987

Can progesterone tablets help PMS?

Oral micronized progesterone appears suitable for treating PMS, with no reported side effects on heart health factors tested. However, this is a review, not a clinical trial proving it works.

Early or limited evidence Review of progesterone pharmacology and clinical applications

What they did

The authors reviewed the bioavailability, pharmacology, and therapeutic applications of oral micronized progesterone.

What they found

Oral micronized progesterone was developed to solve the problem of liver inactivation that prevented earlier forms of progesterone from working by mouth. At 200 mg daily, the preparation reproduces the anti-estrogenic effect of natural progesterone on the endometrium and its anti-mineralocorticoid effect. No side effects were reported regarding lipids profile, coagulation factors, or blood pressure.

What it means for you

Progesterone tablets might help PMS without increasing risks to the heart or blood clotting. However, this is a review describing potential use, not a clinical study showing it actually reduces PMS symptoms. The dose discussed is 200 mg daily.

200 mg

Daily dose reproducing anti-estrogenic effect

About the study

Original title
Oral micronized progesterone. Bioavailability pharmacokinetics, pharmacological and therapeutic implications--a review
Authors
Sitruk-Ware R, Bricaire C, De Lignieres B et al.
Journal
Contraception
Year
1987
Study design
Review

Topics