Greater Glasgow and Clyde Medicines
Key to symbols The medicine should be initiated by, or on the advice of a specialist, but is suitable for continuation by a GP The medicine should only be used and prescribed by a specialist Indicates the preferred choice within a class or group of medicines
The medicine should be initiated by, or on the advice of a specialist, but is suitable for continuation by a GP
The medicine should only be used and prescribed by a specialist
Indicates the preferred choice within a class or group of medicines
6.4.1. Female sex hormones

6.4.1.2. Progestogens

Preferred List
LEVONORGESTREL (MIRENA) (intra-uterine system)

Prescribing Notes:

Mirena is the preferred levonorgestrel intra-uterine system for prevention of endometrial hyperplasia during oestrogen replacement therapy.

Prescribe by brand name. Intra-uterine device which releases levonorgestrel (52mg). It is licensed for use for up to 4 years for this indication; please also see Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG) guidance

For other indications, see section 7.3.2.3.

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MEDROXYPROGESTERONE ACETATE

Prescribing Notes:

The use of medroxyprogesterone tablets for postponing menstruation is off-label, and only for use in patients at higher risk of VTE or where norethisterone is unsuitable. Further guidance is available from the Specialist Pharmacy Service.

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NORETHISTERONE

Prescribing Notes:

Norethisterone should be avoided in patients at risk of venous thromboembolism.

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PROGESTERONE micronised (oral capsules)

Prescribing Notes:

As an adjunctive use with oestrogen in post-menopausal women with an intact uterus, as hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

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Total Formulary
Specialist Only
PROGESTERONE

Restrictions:

Use of Lubion® injection is restricted to women who are unable to use or tolerate vaginal preparations.

Prescribing Notes:

Use for luteal support as part of an assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment program for infertile women is restricted to specialist use only in line with national guidance.

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Specialist and GP
PROGESTERONE (PROMETRIUM) (Vaginal capsules)

Restrictions:

Restricted to specialist initiation for the prevention of miscarriage in women presenting with bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy and have a history of recurrent miscarriages.

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