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Norethisterone acetate is used to treat endometriosis, a condition in which the type of tissue that lines the uterus (womb) grows in other areas of the body and causes pain, heavy or irregular menstruation (periods), and other symptoms. Norethisterone acetate is also used to treat abnormal periods or bleeding and to bring on a normal menstrual cycle in women who menstruated normally in the past but have not menstruated for at least 6 months and who are not pregnant or undergoing menopause (change of life). Norethisterone acetate is also used as a test to see if the body is producing certain female hormones (natural substances that affect the uterus). Norethisterone acetate is in a class of medications called progestins. It works by stopping the lining of the uterus from growing and by causing the uterus to produce certain hormones. Norethisterone acetate is also used to prevent pregnancy. Norethisterone acetate is sold under different brand names and is taken in smaller amounts when it used to prevent pregnancy. This monograph does not include information on the use of Norethisterone acetate to prevent pregnancy. If you would like more information on that use of Norethisterone acetate, read the monograph called "Progestin Only Oral Contraceptives".
Norethisterone acetate comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Norethisterone acetate is taken on different schedules that depend on the condition that is being treated and on how well Norethisterone acetate works to treat the conditions. When Norethisterone acetate is used to treat endometriosis, it is usually taken once a day for 6 to 9 months or until breakthrough bleeding becomes bothersome. When Norethisterone acetate is used to bring on a normal cycle in women who have stopped menstruating, it is usually taken once a day for 5 to 10 days during the second half of the planned menstrual cycle. To help you remember to take Norethisterone acetate, take it at around the same time of day every day that you are scheduled to take it. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Norethisterone acetate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. If you are taking Norethisterone acetate for endometriosis, your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of Norethisterone acetate and gradually increase your dose, not more than once every 2 weeks. Norethisterone acetate may control your condition but will not cure it. Continue to take Norethisterone acetate even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Norethisterone acetate without talking to your doctor. |