Aygestin (Norethindrone)

Aygestin is used for treating certain menstrual problems or uterine problems (e.g., abnormal bleeding, endometriosis). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Aygestin is a progestin hormone. It works by altering the lining of the uterus.

Do not use Aygestin if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Aygestin;
• you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant;
• you have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding or are postmenopausal;
• you have a history of blood clotting problems, severe blood clots (e.g., in the lungs, legs, eyes), certain blood vessel problems (e.g., bleeding in the brain, heart attack, stroke), or breast cancer;
• you have decreased liver function or active liver disease.

• Aygestin may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Aygestin with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
• Aygestin may cause dark skin patches on your face. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Aygestin. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.
• Aygestin may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are taking Aygestin.
• Diabetes patients - Aygestin may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.
• Aygestin should not be used in children; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Do not use Aygestin if you are pregnant. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Aygestin is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Aygestin, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• acne; changes in menstrual flow, including breakthrough bleeding, spotting, or missed periods; dizziness; drowsiness; fever; headache; hot flashes; nausea; nervousness; pain; rash; stomach pain; trouble sleeping; weakness; weight gain or loss.

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; depression; lumps in the breast or under the armpits; migraine headache; partial or complete loss of vision or changes in vision; shortness of breath; slurred speech; sudden loss of coordination; sudden or severe headache; sudden severe headache, dizziness, vomiting, or fainting; swelling of fingers or ankles; tenderness, pain, or swelling of the calf; weakness, numbness, or pain in the arms or legs; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Aygestin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.