One of a naturally occurring or synthetically produced group of steroid HORMONES, including PROGESTERONE, that help to maintain normal pregnancy. Progestogens are used in contraceptives (see CONTRACEPTION) and are useful in treating AMENORRHOEA, premenstrual tension, and abnormal uterine bleeding.
n. one of a group of naturally occurring or synthetic steroid hormones, including *progesterone, that maintain the normal course of pregnancy. Progestogens are used to treat premenstrual tension, *amenorrhoea, and abnormal bleeding from the uterus. Because they prevent ovulation, progestogens are a major constituent of *oral contraceptives and other forms of hormonal *contraception. Synthetic progestogens may be taken by mouth but the naturally occurring hormone must be given by intramuscular injection or subcutaneous implant, as it is rapidly broken down in the liver.
A group of drugs similar to progesterone hormone. The drugs are used in oral contraceptives, are prescribed to treat menstrual problems (see menstruation, disorders of), and are included in hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Progestogen drugs are also used to treat premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis, and hypogonadism, and are sometimes used as anticancer drugs. Adverse effects include weight gain, oedema, headache, dizziness, rash, irregular periods, breast tenderness, and ovarian cysts.... progestogen drugs
Health Encyclopedia