Alysa

Indications

Allylestrenol is a synthetic progestogen, a man-made form of the female hormone progesterone. It is used under a doctor's care in some pregnancies to help support the pregnancy, for example when there is a threatened miscarriage (bleeding or cramping in early pregnancy), a history of repeated miscarriage, or a risk of early (preterm) labour.

How It Works

Progesterone keeps the lining of the womb (endometrium) ready to hold a pregnancy and helps keep the womb muscle relaxed. Allylestrenol acts like progesterone: it supports the womb lining and the placenta and reduces contractions of the womb, which may help a pregnancy continue when natural hormone support is low.

Dosage and Administration

Take exactly as prescribed. The dose and how long it is taken depend on the reason for use and are set by the doctor, who will also decide when to stop. The tablets are taken by mouth with water. Do not stop or change the dose on your own.

Interactions

Medicines that speed up liver enzymes, such as Rifampicin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and Phenobarbital, may lower its effect. It may change blood sugar control, so people taking Insulin or other diabetes medicines may need closer monitoring. Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements and herbal products you use.

Contraindications

Do not use if you are allergic to Allylestrenol, have serious liver disease or a liver tumour, unexplained vaginal bleeding that has not been checked, a history of jaundice or severe itching in a previous pregnancy, or known or suspected hormone-dependent cancer. It should not be used for a pregnancy that has already ended (missed or incomplete miscarriage).

Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild and may include nausea, stomach upset, headache, tiredness, breast tenderness, fluid retention and changes in weight. Rarely it can affect liver tests or blood sugar.

Get urgent medical help if you have heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, a severe headache or vision changes, pain or swelling in one leg, chest pain or sudden shortness of breath, or signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

This medicine is meant for use during pregnancy, but only when prescribed and supervised by a doctor. It is not usually needed during breastfeeding; ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Use with care if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, epilepsy, migraine, depression or a history of blood clots. Your doctor will check that the pregnancy is still continuing normally, usually with an ultrasound scan. Keep all follow-up appointments.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely to be dangerous but may cause nausea, vomiting or drowsiness. If too much has been taken, contact a doctor or the nearest hospital.

Therapeutic Class

Progestogen (female sex hormone).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.