Hydroxyprogesterone

Uses	Premature labour
Therapy	Drugs For Premature Labour Prevention
Side Effects	Pain, swelling, itching at the injection site, fever, headache, dizziness

100% Authentic
Medicines

Cash on delivery
available

Delivery across
19k pincodes

Molecule Description

Hydroxyprogesterone (as hydroxyprogesterone caproate) is a synthetic form of the natural female hormone progesterone. It is primarily prescribed to reduce the risk of premature birth in women with a history of delivering premature babies. Progesterone plays a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy by supporting the uterine lining and regulating hormonal balance. Although the exact way hydroxyprogesterone prevents premature birth is not completely understood, it is believed to help by addressing hormonal deficiencies and promoting uterine development. This medication is administered as an intramuscular injection by a doctor or nurse, typically in a hospital or clinical setting. It is not intended for self-administration. The duration of treatment depends on the patient's medical condition, the stage of pregnancy, and the patient's tolerance to the medication. It is important to inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, hormone-dependent cancers (such as breast cancer), blood clotting disorders, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or depression. Hydroxyprogesterone is not recommended for women carrying multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.) or for stopping active premature labor. Like any medication, Hydroxyprogesterone may cause side effects, including headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, pain or swelling at the injection site, and skin rash. In rare cases, it may lead to jaundice, severe allergic reactions, or blood clot formation. Patients should be closely monitored during therapy.

Uses

Hydroxyprogesterone is a manmade form of a female hormone and is used to reduce the risk of premature birth in a female who has already delivered a premature baby in the past.

Contraindications

When should one not use Hydroxyprogesterone

If you are allergic to hydroxyprogesterone or any other ingredients of this medicine.
If you had or have problems with your liver like liver cancer, etc.
If you have breast cancer or any other hormone cancer.
If you have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding.
If you have or had a history of blood clot disorders.
If you have jaundice in pregnancy.
If you have high blood pressure that is not controlled.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Headache
Dizziness
Fatigue
Fever
Skin rash
Nausea
Pain, swelling, itching at the injection site

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Hydroxyprogesterone is indicated for use during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, to help prevent premature birth in women with a history of preterm delivery.

Breast Feeding

Components of Hydroxyprogesterone pass into the breastmilk in a small amount. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during breastfeeding.

Driving

Hydroxyprogesterone may make you dizzy. Avoid driving if you do not feel well or are unable to be alert.

Alcohol

There is no data regarding interactions between Hydroxyprogesterone and alcohol. However, this does not rule out the possibility of interaction and it is better to avoid alcohol consumption.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You had or have a blood disorder.
You have problems with your heart or kidneys.
You have diabetes or pre-diabetes.
You are pregnant and suffer from asthma, fits, migraine, and high blood pressure.
You have had a history of depression.
You may develop jaundice or high blood pressure.
You develop any allergic reactions, such as a rash, swelling, or itching.
You are a smoker.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Hydroxyprogesterone is a synthetic form of the natural female hormone progesterone. It functions by increasing progesterone levels, helping to relax the uterus, prevent premature contractions, and maintain a stable, thick uterine lining. This supplementation reduces the risk of preterm birth, especially in women who have a history of early delivery.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Hydroxyprogesterone may interact with other medicines, discuss with your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbal preparations you are taking. Also, you should inform your doctor if you have a planned surgery or vaccination scheduled.
Medicines like cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, halothane, nicotine, bupropion, ketamine should be used with caution as they may alter the effects of this medicine.

Interactions with food items

There are no specific food interactions reported with Hydroxyprogesterone.
A balanced, nutritious diet is advised during pregnancy to support the mother's and the baby's health.
Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol intake, as alcohol may worsen dizziness and is generally unsafe in pregnancy.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate hydration, fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods for better treatment support.

Dosage

Overdose

Hydroxyprogesterone will be given to you by a doctor or nurse. Therefore, it is less likely that you may get more or less of this medicine. If you experience any symptoms right after receiving this medicine, then seek medical help.

Missed a Dose

You will be monitored by your doctor or nurse on when the medicine should be given to you. It is unlikely that the dose will be missed. However, if you think your doctor or nurse might have missed a dose, then inform them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some women may notice mild spotting after receiving the medicine, but heavy or unexplained vaginal bleeding is not a common side effect. If you experience any abnormal bleeding or spotting, contact your doctor immediately to rule out complications.

Hydroxyprogesterone is used preventively to keep the uterus relaxed and reduce the likelihood of early contractions, which can delay the onset of premature labor pain. However, if active labor has already begun, this medicine cannot stop the labor pains.

Taking Hydroxyprogesterone does not prevent you from having a normal vaginal delivery. The medicine aims to help you carry the baby closer to full term. The final mode of delivery, whether vaginal birth or Cesarean section, will depend on your health, the baby's position, and your obstetrician's assessment at the time of delivery.

The dosing schedule for Hydroxyprogesterone is based on your specific medical history and your doctor's evaluation. While it is often given weekly, some doctors may prescribe Hydroxyprogesterone every 15 days (bi-weekly) to maintain a stable level of the hormone progesterone in your body. This consistent hormone support helps maintain the uterine lining and reduces the risk of early delivery. Always follow the schedule your healthcare provider has established for you.

No, you should never stop taking this medicine until advised by the doctor, even if you are feeling good.

It is given by medical practitioners only or under the supervision of a medical professional.

The duration of treatment with Hydroxyprogesterone depends on the underlying condition and the patient's response to the treatment.