Aygestin (Norethindrone) is used to treat women with abnormal bleeding from the uterus, and to treat women who stopped having menstrual periods for several months who are not pregnant or going through menopause. This medication is also used to treat a condition called endometriosis and as a birth control to prevent pregnancy. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as female hormones (progestins). It works by stopping the normal growth of the uterus lining during the menstrual cycle, and signaling hormone changes in the uterus to restore normal menstrual periods.

Manufacturer Information

Seek emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to this medication. The common side effects of Aygestin may include breast pain or swelling, depression, hair loss, headache, irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting, nausea, stomach pain, trouble sleeping, vaginal itching or discharge, vomiting, and weight gain.

Contact your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:
• A lump in the breast;
• Feeling light-headed, like you might faint;
• Increased thirst or urination;
• Liver problems;
• Missed menstrual periods;
• Pelvic pain;
• Severe headache;
• Signs of a blood clot;
• Sudden vision loss, or bulging eyes;
• Swelling, or rapid weight gain;
• Unusual vaginal bleeding

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please call your doctor if you have any further concerns or questions.

You should not use Aygestin if you are allergic to Norethindrone or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or if you have:
• A history of blood clots in your brain, eyes, lungs, or legs;
• Breast cancer;
• Liver disease or a liver tumor;
• Unusual vaginal bleeding

Prior to taking this medication, tell your doctors about your medical history and if you smoke or if you have ever had:
• Asthma;
• Diabetes or high cholesterol or triglycerides;
• Depression;
• Epilepsy;
• Heart disease or high blood pressure;
• Kidney or liver disease;
• Migraine headaches;
• Uterine fibroid tumors

You should not use estrogen medications unless your advised by your doctor. Do not smoke; it can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack while taking Aygestin. This medication will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. Use a condom to protect yourself from these diseases. This medication may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin. Sunlight may worsen this effect. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Do not smoke while taking this medication. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, nonprescription, herbal products, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Aygestin and other medications.

Check out our latest Blog Post