Primolut N 5mg Tablets are a hormonal medication containing 5mg of Norethisterone, a synthetic form of the female hormone progesterone. It is a Prescription-Only Medication (POM) under the regulations of the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Kenya, meaning it cannot be legally dispensed without a valid script from a doctor. It works by stabilizing the lining of the womb to regulate the menstrual cycle and alter bleeding patterns.
Primary Medical Uses
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Period Delay: Temporarily postpones a menstrual cycle for special events (e.g., travel, exams, weddings).
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Abnormal/Heavy Bleeding: Controls menorrhagia (excessive or prolonged periods).
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Painful Periods & PMS: Eases menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhoea) and alleviates severe Premenstrual Syndrome.
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Endometriosis: Manages tissue growth outside the womb by suppressing the uterine lining.
Dosage Guidelines (Condition-Specific)
Because hormonal schedules vary entirely by condition, you must follow your doctor's instructions exactly:
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For Period Delay: Typically 1 tablet taken 3 times daily. It must be started at least 3 days before your expected period is due. Your period will normally return as a "withdrawal bleed" 2 to 4 days after you stop taking it.
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For Heavy Bleeding: Usually 1 tablet 3 times daily taken for 10 days to stop acute bleeding.
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Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water at the same times every day. It can be taken with or without food.
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Missed Dose: Take it as soon as you remember, but do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.
Critical Safety Warnings
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Not a Contraceptive: Primolut N does not protect against pregnancy. You must use a non-hormonal barrier method (like condoms) if you are trying to prevent pregnancy.
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Strictly contraindicated. Do not take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as hormones pass into milk and can affect the baby.
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Blood Clot & Liver Risks: Do not take if you have a history of blood clots, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), heart attacks, severe liver disease, or active jaundice.
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Emergency Symptoms: Stop taking the medication and seek emergency care immediately if you experience a sudden severe migraine, unexplained leg swelling/pain, sudden vision changes, or chest pain.
Common Side Effects
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Headaches or dizziness
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Nausea and bloating
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Breast tenderness or swelling
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Breakthrough bleeding or light vaginal spotting between cycles
