Duphaston 10mg Tablets are a prescription-only hormonal medication primarily used to treat conditions caused by a deficiency of the female sex hormone progesterone, as well as to support early pregnancy.
Active Ingredient and Mechanism
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Generic Name: It contains Dydrogesterone (10mg), a synthetic progestogen.
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How It Works: Dydrogesterone acts directly on progesterone receptors in the uterus. It mimics the body's natural progesterone to regulate the healthy growth and normal shedding of the uterine lining (endometrium).
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Key Advantage: Unlike some other synthetic hormones, dydrogesterone does not interfere with normal ovulation or cause masculinising side effects.
Common Uses
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Menstrual Disorders: Prescribed to manage irregular periods, painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea), severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and heavy bleeding.
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Pregnancy Support: Used to prevent miscarriage (threatened or habitual abortion) in women with documented low progesterone levels.
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Fertility & IVF: Given during Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycles to prepare and maintain the uterine lining for embryo implantation.
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Gynecological Conditions: Helps treat endometriosis by controlling the abnormal growth of womb tissue outside the uterus.
Basic Administration Details
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Timing: Can be taken with or without food. Consistency is critical; take it at the same time each day to maintain stable hormone levels.
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Cycle-Specific Dosing: For menstrual regulation, it is usually only taken during specific days of your monthly cycle (e.g., days 11 to 25). For pregnancy support, it is typically taken continuously.
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Missed Dose: If you miss a dose and it is under 12 hours late, take it immediately. If it has been over 12 hours, skip the missed dose and resume your next scheduled tablet. Never double the dose to catch up, as sudden drops or spikes can cause breakthrough spotting.
Core Side Effects & Precautions
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Common Side Effects: Headaches, nausea, breast tenderness or pain, bloating, and dizziness.
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Contraindications: Do not use if you have undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, severe liver disease, or history of tumors worsened by progestogens (such as meningioma).
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Breastfeeding Warning: Dydrogesterone passes into breast milk in small amounts, so it is generally not recommended while breastfeeding unless explicitly approved by a doctor.
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Important Warning: Do not stop taking Duphaston suddenly—especially if using it to prevent a miscarriage. Always follow your doctor's instructions for tapering off the dose safely.
