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CDHB

Norethisterone (5 mg tablet)

nor-eh-this-te-rone

What does it do?

Norethisterone is a progestogen hormone. It is used to treat irregular, painful or heavy periods, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), endometriosis, or to delay periods.
It is also used with oestrogen as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), to protect the lining of your uterus (womb) and reduce your chance of endometrial cancer. For information on oestrogen, see Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) gel, patch, pessary, tablets, or vaginal cream, and the Australasian Menopause Society.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you, or someone in your family, has ever had breast cancer.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take norethisterone regularly as directed with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Changes in periods, unexpected vaginal bleeding

Sore breasts

Mood changes

Headache

Weight gain

Bloating, nausea

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.


This leaflet contains important, but not all, information about this medicine.

Prepared by the MyMedicines Committee at Christchurch Hospital, Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha, New Zealand. May 2026

For more general information about this sheet and its contents, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?

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About My Medicines

My Medicines Patient Information Leaflets (PILs) contain important, but not all, information about the medicines they describe.

For more information about the sheets, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?

My Medicines is developed by a team at Te Whatu Ora – Waitaha. Our team is made up of doctors, pharmacists, and a non-medical person to help us keep to plain language. We also discuss our information with specialist health professionals or groups when needed