What are the risks and side effects of progesterone?
Mar 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, progesterone is available in various dosage forms including capsules, injections, and suppositories. Its risks include fetal malformation, increased liver burden, risk of thrombosis, adrenal cortical function suppression, and endometrial atrophy. Side effects include dizziness and fatigue, nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness, weight gain, and mood swings.
Generally, progesterone is available in various dosage forms including capsules, injections, and suppositories. Its potential risks and side effects include dizziness and fatigue, nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness, weight gain, and mood swings. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dizziness and Fatigue
Progesterone use can cause blood vessels to dilate, potentially leading to decreased blood pressure. This may result in relatively insufficient blood supply to the brain, causing symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, physical weakness, and impaired daily activities.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Progesterone may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, slowing intestinal motility and prolonging gastric retention of food. This may lead to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, which may be more pronounced when the drug is taken on an empty stomach or at higher doses.
3. Breast Tenderness
Progesterone promotes the development of breast alveoli, and its use may cause breast tenderness or a feeling of fullness and heaviness in the breasts. Sometimes, nodular thickening may be palpable within the breast tissue. Symptoms generally tend to subside gradually after discontinuation of the medication.
4. Weight Gain
Progesterone may cause fluid and sodium retention, leading to excessive accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of body tissues. It may also affect fat metabolism, promoting fat deposition, which results in weight gain. This effect typically becomes noticeable after prolonged use.
5. Mood Swings
Progesterone has certain effects on the nervous system and may lead to emotional instability, including irritability, depression, and anxiety. Patients may become easily agitated, which can negatively affect emotional well-being and interpersonal relationships.
During progesterone therapy, it is important to monitor physical changes. If abnormal symptoms occur, prompt medical attention should be sought. Additionally, the medication should be taken strictly according to the physician's instructions. Do not adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication on your own in order to ensure safe and effective treatment.
