Norethindrone
Norethindrone is a synthetic progestin (a form of the hormone progesterone) used primarily for contraception and treatment of menstrual disorders. It is commonly prescribed to women for managing conditions such as irregular periods, endometriosis, and as a component of hormonal birth control.
Norethindrone is a synthetic progesterone hormone used for contraception and to treat menstrual disorders.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- G03AC01
- RxNorm
- 7514
- Generic
- Norethindrone
- Class
- atc-g03
- Brands
- Jinteli, Jevantique, Fyavolv, Aygestin, Combipatch, Myfembree, Gallifrey, Femhrt
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 0.35mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 2.5mg to 10mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg to 20mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid completely
contraindicated for use as a contraceptive during pregnancy; discontinue if pregnancy occurs
discontinue use upon pregnancy confirmation
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid completely
contraindicated for use as contraceptive; consider alternative progestins for obstetric indications if needed
discontinue use upon pregnancy confirmation
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid completely
contraindicated for use as a contraceptive; not for use in late pregnancy
discontinue use immediately
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
generally compatible with breastfeeding; progestins may affect milk production in early postpartum period
monitor infant for unexpected effects; monitor maternal milk supply
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
adolescentsstandard adult dosing
indicated for contraception in post-menarchal adolescents; appropriate for management of menstrual disorders
regular follow-up for blood pressure and metabolic parameters
geriatric
elderlyuse lowest effective dose
limited safety and efficacy data in patients over 65; use with caution due to potential cardiovascular risks
regular cardiovascular monitoring; assess VTE risk
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
moderate to severeno specific dose adjustment required
use with caution; norethindrone is primarily metabolized hepatically with minimal renal elimination
standard monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
milduse with caution
metabolized hepatically; use with caution in mild hepatic impairment
monitor liver function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severeavoid completely
contraindicated in active liver disease or hepatic impairment; avoid in history of cholestatic jaundice
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Pharmacological classification of Norethindrone as a synthetic progestogen
FDA approval year
Initial FDA approval for Norethindrone
Primary indications
Main therapeutic applications
Brand names
Common commercial brand names
Treatment of irregular or absent menstrual periods, contraception (often combined with estrogen), management of endometriosis, and hormone replacement therapy during menopause.
Norethindrone works by mimicking the effects of natural progesterone. It suppresses ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm penetration, and alters the uterine lining to inhibit implantation.
Should not be used during pregnancy. May increase risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially in smokers or those with certain medical conditions. Effectiveness may be reduced by certain medications. Common side effects include mood changes, bloating, and breast tenderness.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy