Progesterone Cream (30 mL)

Progesterone cream is a topical formulation containing bioidentical or synthetic progesterone, typically used to help balance hormone levels in individuals experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as those associated with menopause, PMS, or perimenopause. It is commonly applied to areas of thin skin, allowing for absorption into the bloodstream. This cream offers an alternative route of administration compared to oral progesterone, often preferred for its ease of use and lower impact on liver metabolism.

Progesterone cream works by supplementing the body’s natural progesterone levels. Once absorbed through the skin, the hormone binds to progesterone receptors in various tissues, including the uterus, breasts, brain, and bones. It plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle, supporting pregnancy, and balancing the effects of estrogen. Additionally, it exerts a calming effect on the nervous system and may help counteract estrogen dominance, which is often linked to symptoms like mood swings, breast tenderness, and irregular periods.

Progesterone cream should not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to progesterone or any component of the formulation. It is also contraindicated in individuals with active or history of breast cancer, liver dysfunction, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, or thromboembolic disorders. Caution is advised in patients with a history of depression or migraines. Users should avoid applying the cream near mucous membranes or on broken skin. Regular monitoring is recommended during prolonged use, especially in postmenopausal women.

While generally well-tolerated, progesterone cream can cause side effects in some individuals. Common adverse reactions include skin irritation at the application site, headaches, breast tenderness, bloating, and mood changes. In rare cases, users may experience dizziness, fatigue, or changes in menstrual patterns. The risk of side effects may increase with improper dosing or extended unsupervised use.

The use of progesterone cream during pregnancy should be under strict medical supervision, particularly in cases of progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support or to help prevent miscarriage. Self-medication is not advised. During breastfeeding, topical progesterone is generally considered to have low systemic absorption, but caution is still warranted due to potential hormonal effects on the nursing infant. Always consult a healthcare provider before initiating or continuing progesterone cream during these stages.

Store this medication in its original container at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) and away from heat, moisture and light. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Throw away any unused medicine after the beyond use date. Do not flush unused medications or pour down a sink or drain.

1. Taraborrelli, S., “Physiology, production and action of progesterone”, ACTA Obstetricia et Gynecologica, vol.94, pp. 8-16, 2015. Available: https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/aogs.12771– LinkOpens in New Tab
2. Graham, J. D., Clarke, C.L., “Physiological Action of Progesterone in Target Tissues” Endocrine Reviews, vol.18, pp. 502-519, 1997. Available: https://academic.oup.com/edrv/article/18/4/502/2530774– LinkOpens in New Tab
3. ”Progesterone”, National Center for Biotechnology information, 2020. Available: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Progesterone– LinkOpens in New Tab
4. Schumacher, M., Hussain, R., Gago, N., Oudinet, J. P., Mattern, C., Ghoumari, A. M., “Progesterone synthesis in the nervous system: implications for myelination and myelin repair”, Frontiers in neuroscience, Vol.6, issue 10, 2012. Available: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2012.00010– LinkOpens in New Tab
5. Singh, M, Su, C, Ng, S., “Non-genomic mechanisms of progesterone action in the brain”, Frontiers in Neuroscience, vol.7, 2013. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3776940/#:~:text=The%20%E2%80%9Cclassical%E2%80%9D%20mechanism%20by%20which,region%20of%20target%20genes%20to– LinkOpens in New Tab
6. Gonzalez-Orozco, J.C., Camacho-Arroyo, I, “Progesterone Actions During Central Nervous System Development”, Frontiers in Neuroscience, vol.13, 2019. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6533804/– LinkOpens in New Tab
7. ”Progesterone – Drug summary”, Prescribers’ Digital Reference. Available: https://www.pdr.net/drug-summary/progesterone?druglabelid=2388– LinkOpens in New Tab
8. ”Progesterone pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings” Available: https://www.drugs.com/pregnancy/progesterone.html#:~:text=US%20FDA%20pregnancy%20category%20B,controlled%20studies%20in%20pregnant%20women.