Progesterone and progestogens

Only minor quantities of intact biologically active progesterone are absorbed if the hormone is given orally. Progestogens are synthetic compounds which display actions similar to that of progesterone. Many progestogens are more potent than progesterone itself and can be absorbed intact when administered orally. 

Progesterone, and particularly progestogens, are used for a number of therapeutic purposes, including  

Progesterone Hormone produced naturally by corpus luteum, adrenals and placenta. Serum half-life is only a few minutes Dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Sustaining pregnancy in threatening abortion 

Chlormadinone Synthetic progestogen Menstrual disorders. Oral contraceptive 

Ethynodiol diacetate Synthetic progestogen Component of many combined oral contraceptives. Progesterone replacement therapy 

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Wyatt K et al 2001 Efficacy of progesterone and progestogens in management of premenstrual syndrome systematic review. British Medical Journal 323 776-780... 

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