Hydroxyprogesterone is used to reduce the risk of preterm birth in women who are pregnant.

 

What is Hydroxyprogesterone?

Hydroxyprogesterone is a synthetic hormone. Its exact mechanism of action in the reduction of the risk of preterm birth has not yet been identified.

 

How should Hydroxyprogesterone be taken?

Hydroxyprogesterone is typically administered intramuscularly via injection. One injection every seven days is advised.

 

Side effects associated with Hydroxyprogesterone

Among the possible side effects of hydroxyprogesterone include the following:

 

  • Diarrhea
  • Bruising , itching or mild pain at the injection site
  • Nausea

 

 It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:

 

  • Rash
  • Urticaria
  • Itch
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Tightness in chest
  • Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
  • Pain, redness, swelling, tenderness of the legs or calves
  • Chest pains
  • Coughing up blood
  • Severe discomfort at the injection site
  • Mood disorders
  • Severe or persistent headache or dizziness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling of the hands, ankles or feet
  • Jaundice

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Hydroxyprogesterone

Hydroxyprogesterone is not indicated in case of pregnancy with twins, coagulation problems, breast cancer or cancers sensitive to hormones, unexplained vaginal bleeding, jaundice, liver cancer or other liver problems and uncontrolled high blood pressure.

 

Before starting treatment with hydroxyprogesterone, it is also important to tell your doctor if:

 

  • You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, or any other drugs or food
  • You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: rifamycins, paracetamol, bupropion, clozapine, efavirenz, halothane, methadone, nicotine, theophylline or tizanidine
  • You are suffering (or have suffered or have had a family history) from diabetes or hyperglycemia, edema, preeclampsia, migraine, epilepsy, asthma, heart disease , liver or kidney problems, high blood pressure, psychological or psychiatric disorders