What is Norethisterone?
Norethisterone is a synthetic version of the natural female hormone progesterone, which helps sustain the lining of the womb. Normally, progesterone levels drop before a woman’s period begins, but taking Norethisterone maintains the womb lining, effectively delaying your period until the tablets are stopped.
What is Norethisterone Used For?
Norethisterone has several uses, including safely delaying your period for up to 17 days when it would otherwise be inconvenient. You can purchase Norethisterone period delay tablets online for:
- Up to 7 days of period delay = 1 pack (30 tablets)
- Up to 17 days of period delay = 2 packs (60 tablets)
Norethisterone should not be used to delay your period for more than 17 days without consulting your GP face-to-face. It should also not be used more frequently than every 4 months and cannot be bought over the counter.
Originally branded as Utovlan, Norethisterone is now available as a generic treatment following the expiry of Utovlan's patent. Norethisterone is also present in some contraceptive pills and hormone replacement therapies for menopause. However, Norethisterone period delay tablets should not be used for hormone replacement, do not provide contraceptive protection, and are not a form of emergency contraception. You should continue using your regular contraceptive method while taking Norethisterone to delay your period.
How Do I Take Norethisterone?
Norethisterone should be taken three times daily, starting three days before your period is due, and continued until you want your period to resume. Your period will typically start within two to three days after stopping the tablets. Do not take Norethisterone if you are pregnant. Food and alcohol do not affect the absorption or effectiveness of Norethisterone.
How Can I Delay My Period?
There are no non-medicinal methods for delaying your period. However, if you are already taking the combined contraceptive pill, you can delay your period by running two packs back-to-back without taking the usual seven-day break.
If you are not on the contraceptive pill, Norethisterone is an option. It should not be used by women already taking the contraceptive pill for period delay. If you are considering using the pill to delay your period, consult your GP or refer to the Period Delay page for more information.
How to Stop Your Period with Norethisterone
To delay your period, take one Norethisterone tablet three times a day, starting three days before your period is due. Continue until you wish your period to start again. Your period should occur within two to three days after stopping the tablets. Do not use Norethisterone to stop a period that has already started.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose, in which case, skip the missed one. Missing a dose may cause some light bleeding or spotting, so having panty liners on hand might be helpful.
Ingredients in Norethisterone Period Delay Pills
Each tablet contains 5mg of norethisterone. Other ingredients include lactose, maize starch, and magnesium stearate.
What Are the Side Effects of Norethisterone?
Make sure to read the patient information leaflet that comes with your Norethisterone pills for a full list of side effects. Stop taking the tablets and consult your GP immediately if you experience a significant rise in blood pressure, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or migraines.
If you experience any side effects, contact a healthcare professional through your online account or call us. For emergencies, contact emergency services or visit your nearest A&E.
Warnings and Precautions for Norethisterone
Norethisterone should not be taken if you are on any of the following medications:
- Aminoglutethimide
- Ampicillin
- Carbamazepine
- Ciclosporin
- Co-trimoxazole
- Efavirenz
- Nelfinavir
- Nevirapine
- Oxacillin
- Phenobarbital
- Phenytoin
- Rifabutin
- Rifampin
- Ritonavir
These interactions will be checked during your online consultation. Consult the patient information leaflet for further details.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Swelling of the face and wheezing (possible severe allergic reaction)
- Thrombosis (blood clot in the leg or lungs)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Migraine
- A significant rise in blood pressure or persistent headaches
