Dyufaston and Utrozhestan: what is better to take during pregnancy, what is the difference between drugs, can you drink at the same time? Duphaston and Utrozhestan (description and comparison) Duphaston and Utrozhestan dosage comparison

Greetings, my dear readers! Today I will tell you one of the topics that often pop up at the reception. We are often visited by girls who have experienced a "terrible shock", when suddenly before the standard period of the next menstruation they see blood stains, and the fact of conceiving a baby has already been confirmed. After all, any normal girl dreams of children and cannot even think about the possible loss of a child. Duphaston or Utrozhestan when planning pregnancy and during its course can be of decisive importance.

What is the progesterone hormone for?

Progesterone is the main hormone for expectant mothers. You've probably heard the phrase "Pregnancy hormone". So this is about him.

Before the onset of pregnancy, its task is to prepare the endometrial layer in the uterus for the adoption of a fertilized egg.

A sufficient level of progesterone allows you to build it up thick, loose, nutritious. After fertilization of the egg, the future embryo reaches the inner cavity of the uterus and then must successfully penetrate into its wall. This happens with the help of chorionic villi, which literally grow into the "nourishing" layer of the endometrium prepared by progesterone, allowing the ovum to attach and "adjust the connection" with the mother's body. In the future, the placenta is formed from this part, which will produce progesterone throughout pregnancy.

After pregnancy, it interferes with uterine contractions, thereby preventing spontaneous abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy and inhibiting follicular growth to allow the current pregnancy to develop. Once again, evaluate how smart nature is - after all, if fertilization would be possible during the onset of pregnancy and all embryos would develop in the uterus at different stages, interfering with each other)).

The doctor will prescribe you urozhestan and duphaston drugs if you have such a common problem as the threat of termination of pregnancy (both in the late stages and when the egg has just fertilized and moves to the uterus), because they both contain progesterone. Utrozhestan is vegetable, and dyufaston is synthetic.


Duphaston

The drug contains dydrogesterone - an artificial hormone progestogen, indicated in cases of insufficient production by the body itself. For primiparous women, it will have a preventive effect, and with the already existing experience of pregnancy, which resulted in a miscarriage, it will not allow the tragic outcome to recur. Or, at the very least, it will minimize the possible risk.

The drug is taken according to several schemes, depending on the purpose and indications:

  • endometriosis - drink 1 tablet 2-3 times a day from 5 to 25 days of the cycle;
  • infertility due to inferiority of the luteal phase - 1 tablet from the moment of ovulation;
  • threatening miscarriage - 4 tablets at a time, then 1 piece 3 times a day until symptoms are eliminated;
  • habitual miscarriage - 1 piece twice a day at least until the 20th week of pregnancy, then the dose may be gradually reduced.

The dosage regimens are very diverse, so you should determine the optimal dosage with a competent gynecologist. This usually requires a series of examinations. But an integrated approach will reduce the risk of losing pregnancy to a minimum.

Utrozhestan

The drug is presented in the form of round, soft gelatin capsules with liquid oily contents. The active ingredient is 100 or 200 mg of natural micronized progesterone in each capsule.

According to the instructions, the drug has 2 options for taking:

  • drink in the evening before going to bed with enough water;
  • candles are inserted deep into the vagina, as close as possible to the cervix.

Both methods provide complete absorption. But the introduction into the vagina has a directional effect and allows you to achieve maximum concentration in the target area. For example, as an option, when the cervix is ​​not sufficiently closed during gestation (according to science - ICI, isthmic-cervical insufficiency).

An unpleasant side effect according to women's reviews is the release of liquid contents after getting to their feet for a long time. But, of course, this is a trifle compared to the therapeutic effect. To soften not the most pleasant sensations, ordinary panty liners will allow.

Of the contraindications, there is a tendency to thrombosis and increased blood viscosity. Utrozhestan is used with caution in the presence of chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system.

conclusions

Yes, duphaston is a synthetic drug. However, it is this quality that makes it preferable. The change in the configuration of the molecule has led to the fact that it is readily absorbed when taken orally. And natural progesterone in the morning is, at least, a source of the possible development of allergic reactions.

Usually the doctor prescribes morning sickness in the first trimester of pregnancy because of convenience - vaginal capsules, especially when there is severe toxicosis, before vomiting. Duphaston can be prescribed at any stage of pregnancy if there is a threat of termination or, according to the test results, you have obvious progesterone deficiency.

Do not be alarmed if your doctor has prescribed you the simultaneous use of Duphaston and Utrozhestan. So he tries to minimize the likelihood of developing certain side effects associated with prolonged use of hormonal drugs.

Most likely, the doctor will replace you with dyufaston at the end of the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy, due to the negative effect on the liver.

During pregnancy, when the placenta has formed a cavity and produces the required amount of progesterone itself, the doctor cancels Duphaston or Utrozhestan. But if you still have a threat of termination of pregnancy, or after the withdrawal of progesterone, pulling pains in the lower abdomen, the tone of the uterus appear, the drugs continue to be taken.

It is very important - hormonal drugs require gradual withdrawal!

Withdrawal regimens are approximately the same - reducing the dose of the drug by half a tablet per week. But if the doctor assessed your condition and prescribed to take the drug further, do not hesitate to ask all your questions - you do not need extra nerves and anxiety)).

If Duphaston and Utrozhestan are stopped abruptly, very serious consequences are possible - miscarriage in early pregnancy and premature birth at a later stage.

I cannot unequivocally answer the question of which drug is better than Duphaston or Utrozhestan. Your attending physician will prescribe one of them, taking into account your specific case, the characteristics of the course of your specific pregnancy, and your specific concomitant diseases. Please do not self-prescribe drugs and dosages!

I suggest you watch a short video (06:19) in which Dr. Guzov (founder and director of the CIR) talks about progesterone drugs.

Taking into account all the information provided, it is up to you to decide what to take, why and why. And you can get all the necessary answers to your questions from the observing gynecologist. Then there will be no reason to worry about the unknown and the baby will be born strong, healthy in due time.

For the expectant mother, the threat of a pregnancy failure is a great danger. The most common cause is low levels of progesterone in the blood. In a similar situation, the doctor prescribes an additional intake of the hormone, which is available in the form of Dufaston and Utrozhestan tablets.

The effect of progesterone on the female body

For a better understanding of the principle of action of Duphaston and Utrozhestan, it is worth understanding what progesterone is. Progesterone (second name - "pregnancy hormone") belongs to the category of gestagens. The adrenal glands, ovaries and placental tissues are responsible for its production. The hormone plays a serious role - it is responsible for preparing the uterine endometrium for the adoption of a fertilized egg. Progesterone works most actively in the body in the second part of the cycle (in the absence of pregnancy) and directly in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. Due to the activity of the substance, initially gestation takes place without complications in the form of a threat of miscarriage.

In the first three months of gestation, the corpus luteum of the ovaries is responsible for the secretion of the "pregnancy hormone", which ensures the growth and development of the fetus and prevents the formation of the next eggs. Having completed the necessary, the corpus luteum ceases to perform this function, and before childbirth, the placenta, which is ripe by this stage, is responsible for the production of the substance.

One of the factors of possible infertility is an insufficient level of progesterone in the female body. During the planning period of pregnancy, it is important to take a hormone test - the onset of ovulation and conception depend on it.

What to choose to normalize hormonal levels

Initially, it may seem that Dyufaston and Utrozhestan are more similar to each other than differ. But this is a misconception. Let's understand the features of each drug.

The composition of Utrozhestan includes natural progesterone, which is produced from ingredients of plant origin. Its molecules are the same with those that the female body independently produces. Utrozhestan has efficacy similar to natural progesterone.

Utrozhestan is prescribed in the following cases:

  • infertility associated with hormonal disorders;
  • the likelihood of a pregnancy failure;
  • frequent miscarriage of the fetus;
  • an increase in the amount of male sex hormones;
  • disruptions in the menstrual cycle;
  • manifestations of mastopathy;
  • uterine fibroids.

The main active ingredient of Duphaston is dydrogesterone. It is a synthetic analogue of natural progesterone. But, not paying attention to the artificial nature, Duphaston is still almost identical to the natural "pregnancy hormone", and the therapeutic effect of its use is quite good. When taking Duphaston, there are no side effects, the drug is safe for use during the period of bearing a baby.

  • planning a pregnancy by in vitro fertilization (IVF);
  • threatened miscarriage;
  • syndromes during menopause such as hormone therapy;
  • disruptions in the menstrual cycle (amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, PMS);
  • endometriosis.

How to choose: Dyufaston or Utrozhestan

Both are progesterone substitutes. When prescribing drugs, doctors usually focus on personal experience and the already existing results of therapy. Consider the pros and cons of Dyufaston and Utrozhestan.


Pluses of Dyufaston over Utrozhestan:

  • minimal likelihood of side effects (weakness, drowsiness);
  • highly effective in the case of pregnancy planning by IVF (the highest level of fetal survival);
  • does not pose a danger to the child;
  • reduces the likelihood of premature birth (fetoplacental insufficiency);
  • does not contribute to the occurrence of acne, excessive hair growth and other masculine traits, if the unborn child is a girl;
  • does not affect liver health.

Why is Utrozhestan better than Dufaston

  • similar to a natural hormone;
  • does not contribute to the growth of body weight;
  • does not increase blood pressure;
  • does not rebuild the metabolism;
  • works well with an excess of male hormones;
  • prevents oxytocin from affecting the uterus;
  • does not affect the baby, is not able to cause developmental pathologies;
  • not only oral, but also introvaginal (the pill is injected into the genital tract) is allowed.

In case of a threat of disruption of gestation, this method of using the drug is the most effective.

Side effects from drugs

Dyufaston and Utrozhestan are actively used during pregnancy, but the funds have some side effects.

Using Utrozhestan can cause:

  • an increase in body temperature (up to 38 degrees);
  • slight drowsiness;
  • mood swings;
  • dizziness.

The negative effect of taking Duphaston is expressed in an increase in the likelihood of uterine bleeding.

How to take pills

It has been proven that none of the remedies will negatively affect the ovulation process. It is forbidden to take Duphaston and Utrozhestan during breastfeeding.

Both drugs are taken under the strict supervision of a physician according to a special scheme. If a woman regularly takes the drug, then it is not recommended to abruptly cancel it. Such inattention to health is fraught with miscarriage. Cancellation of the drug should be done in stages. Over the course of 3-4 weeks, the dosage is gradually reduced, and then the use is stopped (or another hormone therapy is prescribed).


In certain situations, funds are prescribed during pregnancy planning. Then, after conception, the reception of Duphaston and Utrozhestan continues immediately before childbirth. The body gets used to the intake of progesterone from the external environment and stops producing the hormone naturally.

Contraindications to the use of drugs

The drug is able to be absorbed into the mother's milk; the drug is not taken during breastfeeding.

Utrozhestan has more contraindications than Duphaston:

  • bleeding from the genital tract of unexplained origin;
  • thrombophlebitis;
  • hypertension;
  • porphyria;
  • incomplete abortion;
  • malignant formations in the area of ​​the mammary glands and genitals;
  • congenital liver pathologies;
  • allergic reactions to the components of the drug.

In the case of the likelihood of thrombosis and abnormalities in the liver, the agent is used intravaginally. In the third trimester of gestation, pills are prescribed in exceptional situations, at this time the liver is largely susceptible to any influences.

In special cases, doctors prescribe the simultaneous administration of two drugs. This method helps to reduce the risk of developing diseases associated with the use of hormonal drugs for a long time. In this case, it is possible to combine the intake of two drugs at once (Duphaston is prescribed orally, and in addition, Utrozhestan is administered intravaginally). It is important to adhere to the dosage regimen prescribed by your doctor.

The question of the correct choice of the drug should be decided by the attending physician, the decision of the specialist is based not only on the characteristics of the drug, but also on the personal characteristics of the body, the course of pregnancy, age, etc.

Remember: if you treat yourself carefully and follow the doctor's advice, the process of carrying a baby and giving birth will be easy and without complications.

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Unfortunately, not all women can easily get pregnant and then carry a baby without complications.

Due to the powerful hormonal changes in the body of the expectant mother, all sorts of changes occur, provoking certain problems.

Quite often, in the first weeks of pregnancy, placental abruption occurs in women, an increased or miscarriage is diagnosed. The reason for these conditions is a lack of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone belongs to the category of gestagens, the adrenal glands, the corpus luteum of the ovaries and placental tissues are responsible for its production.

At the first signs of a threat of termination of pregnancy: the tone of the uterus, pulling pains in the lower abdomen, bloody discharge from the genital tract, progesterone drugs are prescribed, the most popular of which are Duphaston and Utrozhestan.

In our article we will compare the drugs Utrozhestan and Duphaston, consider their advantages and disadvantages, indications and contraindications for use. Both medicines are often prescribed already at the planning stage of pregnancy, since progesterone helps to conceive a baby in case of problems with its insufficiency.

It has a beneficial effect on the process of attachment of the ovum to the wall of the uterus and the further bearing of the child, especially at the very beginning of pregnancy, when the immune system can perceive the fetus as a foreign organism and begin to reject it.

These drugs have a similar effect on the body, their main task is to help a woman get pregnant and maintain a pregnancy. But in order to find out what is better than Duphaston or Utrozhestan and how they differ from each other, it is necessary to consider each drug separately.

The composition of Duphaston and Utrozhestan and the form of release

These hormonal agents have an identical composition, but their main difference is that Duphaston is a synthetic drug, and Utrozhestan is natural. Utrozhestan contains micronized progesterone obtained from the leaves of the Dioscorea plant and is close to the natural formula produced by the female body.

Duphaston, on the other hand, is an artificial analogue of progesterone, consists of dydrogesterone, which is also of plant origin, but undergoes more complex chemical processing. Utrozhestan is available in two forms: capsules for oral administration (inside) and intravaginal suppositories. Duphaston is sold only in pill form.

Indications for the use of Duphaston and Utrozhestan

Both drugs have similar indications for use. Utrozhestan is prescribed with the threat of spontaneous abortion, mild form, uterine fibroids, hormonal infertility (for example, caused by the cycle) and other gynecological diseases.

Also, the drug is very effective when women have high levels of male sex hormones. Utrozhestan is a fairly new drug, so in some European countries it is not yet widely used.

Dyufaston was released by the pharmaceutical industry much earlier than Utrozhestan, and the experience of its use has a long history. The artificial configuration of the hormone allows the drug to quickly enter the body and be absorbed into the blood at the desired concentration.

In addition to being used in case of a threat of miscarriage, Duphaston is also prescribed in preparation for in vitro fertilization, in case of menstrual irregularities, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, with replacement therapy after removal of reproductive organs, infertility.

Studies have shown that Duphaston several times reduces the risk of premature birth in women who are registered with this problem.

Contraindications to taking Duphaston and Utrozhestan

Since Duphaston is a synthetic analogue of natural progesterone, its use is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to its constituents and other components of the drug. It is also not recommended to take Duphaston for women with serious liver diseases (Rotor syndrome, Dabin-Johnson).

With caution and under the supervision of a physician, Duphaston is prescribed to patients with a history of itching during pregnancy. A contraindication to the use of Duphaston is the lactation period, since it penetrates into breast milk.

In Utrozhestan, despite his naturalness, there are much more contraindications to admission. Utrozhestan is not used for bleeding from the genital tract of an unexplained nature, if the patient has malignant or reproductive organs, with some liver diseases (porphyria), during an abortion in progress, with individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

With a tendency to the appearance of blood clots, an intravaginal method of using Utrozhestan is recommended. This remedy is prescribed with caution to women in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of liver dysfunction, as well as during breastfeeding.

Side effects of taking Duphaston and Utrozhestan

When taking Duphaston, the patients practically do not notice side effects. The only thing, occasionally breakthrough uterine bleeding occurs, which are eliminated by increasing the dose of the drug.

Utrozhestan has many more side effects, namely: dizziness 30-40 minutes after ingestion, lethargy, drowsiness, mood swings, increased fatigue. Some of them are eliminated by taking Utrozhestan vaginally.

What is better Dyufaston or Utrozhestan

It is impossible to unequivocally answer the question of which drug is better than Dufaston or Utrozhestan. Each of them is prescribed by a doctor to a woman, taking into account specific indications, characteristics of the body, focusing on personal experience of use or the results of therapy of other patients.

Both drugs, although hormonal, do not affect body weight, since they do not lead to fluid retention in the body, which is especially important for women in position. These drugs do not affect the metabolism, they do not get fat from Duphaston and Utrozhestan.

The big plus is that the drugs do not increase blood pressure either. Still, both drugs have their pros and cons, as well as advantages over each other.

Why is Duphaston better than Utrozhestan:

  • few side effects;
  • minimal effect on the liver;
  • high efficiency in planning a child with IVF (good indicators of fetal survival);
  • decrease in likelihood;
  • no side effects on the fetus;
  • no contraindications to driving a vehicle while taking Duphaston;
  • Duphaston is a more researched drug;
  • Duphaston can be taken for a longer time, unlike Urozhestan

Advantages of Utrozhestan:

  • natural drug, the closest in composition to natural progesterone;
  • the ability to use the drug both orally and intravaginally (especially method 2 is suitable for pregnant women with a strong);
  • effective with an excess of male hormones;
  • does not have a detrimental effect on the fetus;
  • low cost of Utrozhestan in comparison with Duphaston

Which drug is best for you can only be assessed on your own experience. In general, they both do a good job with their functions: they make up for the deficiency of progesterone in the body, bring the uterus back to normal, eliminating manifestations, reduce the likelihood of miscarriage, and normalize the cycle.

Interchangeability of Duphaston and Utrozhestan

A large number of women are interested not only in the question of which of these funds is better, but also whether it is possible to replace Utrozhestan with Duphaston and vice versa. Replacing one drug with another occurs for various reasons: some patients may have contraindications to taking a particular drug, others show an individual intolerance to the components, and still others just want to receive Duphaston at the antenatal clinic for a free prescription.

It is categorically impossible both to prescribe Dyufaston or Utrozhestan to yourself, and to replace one remedy with another. Hormonal drugs require strict adherence to the instructions and a smooth cancellation or transition, therefore, the scheme for switching from Dufaston to Utrozhestan or vice versa for each patient is selected by the doctor individually, taking into account the characteristics of the woman's body, contraindications to hormone intake and pregnancy management.

As a rule, Utrozhestan is usually prescribed to patients in the first trimester (less often in the II) because of the convenience of its use in the form of vaginal capsules, especially with severe gestosis of pregnant women. Duphaston can be prescribed at any stage of pregnancy if there is a threat of miscarriage or, according to the results of the analysis, the woman has a clear progesterone deficiency.

How to take Duphaston and Utrozhestan

The regimens for taking Duphaston and Utrozhestan for various diseases and pathologies, as well as during pregnancy, are different and are selected by a specialist individually.

To normalize the cycle, Utrozhestan is usually prescribed 200 mg 2 times a day in the morning and in the evening for 10 days. With the threat of miscarriage during pregnancy, a dose of Utrozhestan is prescribed, equal to 200-600 mg per day. For other pathological conditions, the drug is recommended to be taken from 200 to 400 mg.

The dosage for the use of Duphaston in each case is selected individually. In case of a violation of the cycle and premenstrual syndrome, the drug is prescribed 1 tablet 2 times a day for 2 weeks, starting from the 11th day of the cycle, with infertility caused by insufficiency of the luteal phase, Duphaston is drunk from the 14th to 25th day of the cycle, 1 tablet per day, with a threatening Abortion is prescribed 4 tablets once, then 1 every 8 hours until the anxiety symptoms disappear, etc.

In the case of the appointment of progesterone drugs during the planning of a child, a woman often continues to take them for almost the entire pregnancy, since the body is accustomed to the intake of hormones from the external environment and does not cope well with its production naturally.

Sometimes the doctor may prescribe the patient the simultaneous use of Duphaston and Utrozhestan in order to minimize the likelihood of developing certain side effects associated with prolonged use of hormonal drugs. Often Duphaston is prescribed to a woman orally in addition to the intravaginal administration of Utrozhestan.

This regimen allows you to maintain the required level of the pregnancy hormone progesterone in normal conditions with minimal risks to the expectant mother and fetus. The main thing is to follow the instructions and dosage indicated by the gynecologist.

Cancellation of drugs

In late pregnancy, when the placenta is completely formed and itself is able to produce the required amount of progesterone, Duphaston or Utrozhestan is canceled. But in the presence of a prolonged threat of termination of pregnancy, the appearance of pulling pains in the lower abdomen and tone of the uterus after the withdrawal of progesterone, Dufaston continues to be taken further.

Utrozhestan is replaced by Duphaston, since it has a negative effect on the liver at the end of the II and III trimesters of pregnancy. The scheme for canceling Duphaston and Utrozhestan is approximately the same - a gradual reduction in the dose of the drug (by half a tablet per week or another option suggested by the doctor) with an assessment of the patient's condition.

If Dyufaston and Utrozhestan stop taking very abruptly, serious consequences are possible, up to miscarriage in early pregnancy and premature birth at a later stage. Be careful with hormonal medications and only take them as directed by your healthcare professional.

Pregnancy is the happiest and best time while waiting for the baby. Realizing that a new life is developing inside you, inextricably linked with you - what could be better? Feeling the baby's movements, talking to him, expecting him to appear - isn't this the joy of every pregnant woman?

Often, expectant mothers are very sensitive and emotional. They are constantly busy with business, because they have so much to do! But pregnancy does not always bring only positive feelings.

It happens (and not so rarely as we would like) that the expectant mother needs medical help in carrying the long-awaited miracle. A woman's poor health, her chronic diseases, complex unforeseen circumstances - all this affects not only the hormonal background of the pregnant woman, but also the health of her baby.

In such cases, the attending physicians may prescribe drugs such as "Utrozhestan" or "Duphaston". Can they be taken during pregnancy? Of course, there is hardly any woman who would not know about their amazing benefits.

However, many expectant mothers have a completely logical question: which is better during pregnancy - "Utrozhestan" or "Duphaston"? And in general, how do these drugs differ from each other?

To answer the above questions, you must carefully study the instructions for these drugs, as well as analyze their distinctive features. Our article will be devoted to this topic.

We will also find out whether it is possible to take “Utrozhestan” and “Duphaston” at the same time, or how to switch from one drug to another. But first, let's discuss in what cases these drugs are prescribed.

An important hormone for life

What is the purpose of such a remedy as "Utrozhestan" or "Duphaston"? In short, both drugs are artificial substitutes for such an important hormone as progesterone. It is included in both products as an active ingredient.

Then in what cases can “Utrozhestan” or “Dufaston” be appointed?

First of all, when in the body of a woman who wants to get pregnant or is already in an interesting position, there is not enough progesterone. How is this hormone different from others?

First of all, progesterone, produced by the ovaries, adrenal glands and placental tissue, prepares the uterine endometrium to receive the zygote (fertilized egg). It also prevents the formation of the next eggs (which are no longer needed) and ensures the full growth and development of the embryo.

As you can see, the presence of the hormone progesterone in the required amount is very important for the body of a woman who wants to become a mother. That is why they may prescribe "Utrozhestan" or "Duphaston" when planning a pregnancy, especially if the long-awaited fertilization has not occurred for some time.

Having found out why these drugs are needed, let's move on to the analysis of the next important question. So, which is better: "Utrozhestan" or "Duphaston"? First, let's read the instructions for using the first drug.

"Utrozhestan". Composition

First of all, it should be said that this drug is a natural micronized hormone made on a plant basis. Its structure is very close to the natural progesterone produced by the female body.

The release form of the drug is soft gelatinous capsules of light yellow color. In addition to the main active ingredient, the product contains peanut butter, soy lecithin, glycerol, gelatin, titanium dioxide.

The price of the drug varies around five hundred rubles.

What can be said about when this remedy is prescribed?

Indications for use

First of all, “Utrozhestan” is prescribed by the attending physician in the presence of such diseases:

  • Menstrual irregularities.
  • Infertility caused by abnormal shortening of the luteal phase of critical days.
  • Menopause, menopause.
  • Malfunctions of the ovaries, lack of ovaries.
  • Diseases associated with the endometrium.
  • Before the IVF procedure.
  • Threatened miscarriage or termination of pregnancy.

Mode of application

"Utrozhestan" is produced in the form of candles and capsules. Inside, you can take the remedy like this:

  • In case of menstrual irregularities - from two hundred to four hundred milligrams from the 16th to the 26th day, counting from the first day of the onset of menstruation.
  • For violations associated with menopause - two hundred milligrams once a day for twelve days (along with estrogens).

In the form of vaginal suppositories, the drug is prescribed in the following dosages:

  • One hundred to two hundred milligrams twice a day - with the threat of premature birth or miscarriage.
  • From two hundred to six hundred milligrams per day during the first four weeks of pregnancy - with artificial insemination.
  • Two hundred to three hundred milligrams per day from the 17th to the 27th days of the onset of the menstrual cycle - with infertility.

The exact dosage and schedule for taking the drug is prescribed by the attending physician, taking into account the patient's history and her clinical situation.

"Side effects"

Side effects when using "Utrozhestan" are very rare, but you should still be aware of them. First of all, these are:

  • Possible violations in the frequency of critical days.
  • Discomfort in the mammary glands.
  • Vaginal discharge.
  • Increased sweating.
  • Increased fatigue, weakness.
  • Blood pressure surges.
  • Drowsiness.
  • Increased body temperature.
  • Bloating, nausea.
  • Dizziness.
  • Itching of the skin.

Having studied in detail the instructions for the use of "Utrozhestan", let us now carefully read the annotation for "Duphaston".

The composition of "Duphaston"

This remedy is an absolutely artificial drug, that is, the structure of progesterone in its composition is completely synthetic, it differs slightly from the natural hormone.

The drug is available in the form of white hard-coated round tablets. The auxiliary substances that make up the product are: lactose monohydrate, corn starch, hypromellose, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate.

The price of the drug varies around six hundred rubles.

In what cases is this medication prescribed?

Indications for use

Dydrogesterone (the so-called synthetic progesterone) is prescribed for painful periods, inflammation of the endometrium, infertility, the threat of miscarriage, menopause.

Also, it can be prescribed by the attending physician during the planning period of pregnancy in order to normalize the hormonal background of the woman.

Mode of application

How should the drug be used? "Duphaston" is a tablet formulation, so it can only be used orally:

  • Irregular menstrual cycle - ten milligrams twice a day, starting with the eleventh and ending with the 25th day of the cycle.
  • Dysmenorrhea, endometrial diseases - ten milligrams two or three times a day from the fifth to the 25th day from the beginning of menstruation.
  • Infertility - ten milligrams per day from the 14th to the 25th day of the menstrual cycle.
  • Threat of miscarriage - one-time forty milligrams, then ten milligrams every eight hours.
  • During menopause and bleeding, a specific dosage of the drug is prescribed by a specialist.

"Side effects"

It is very rare, but it can cause:

  • Anemia.
  • Headache.
  • Allergic reactions.
  • Itching of the skin.
  • Minor abnormalities in the liver.

Main distinguishing features

After reading the instructions for these drugs, at first glance it may seem that they are identical. And yet there is a difference. It is as follows:

  1. First of all - the composition. If "Utrozhestan" has a completely natural basis, then "Duphaston" is a completely synthetic hormonal preparation. In cases where long-term progesterone intake is justified, “Utrozhestan” is prescribed as a more natural drug for the female body. If urgent intervention is needed, then Dufaston is prescribed, which begins to act much faster.
  2. Study of the medicinal product. Since “Duphaston” began to be produced much earlier than “Utrozhestan”, it is a more studied and clinically tested drug.
  3. Possible side effects. “Duphaston”, according to reviews, rarely causes unpleasant and unexpected symptoms.
  4. Release form. Due to the fact that "Utrozhestan" is produced in suppositories for vaginal use, it helps the active substance to be absorbed in the body more quickly and causes fewer side effects.

Combining drugs in treatment

Many are interested in whether it is possible to take two hormonal agents at the same time? The answer is yes, but only as directed by a doctor.

In rare, exceptional cases, a specialist may consider it necessary to write out "Utrozhestan" and "Duphaston" together. They can be:

  1. Severe lack of progesterone.
  2. Threat of miscarriage due to placental abruption.
  3. Pregnancy after prolonged infertility.
  4. Past pregnancies ended tragically - miscarriages, frozen fetuses.
  5. Serious gynecological diseases.
  6. Abnormalities of the uterus.

In such cases, oral administration of Duphaston can be supplemented with the use of Utrozhestan vaginal suppositories.

However, there are some nuances to keep in mind. Firstly, after the twentieth week of pregnancy, “Duphaston” is no longer prescribed, since the changes that have occurred in the woman's body during this period make the intake of the synthetic hormone ineffective.

Secondly, after the 34th week, pregnant women are strictly prohibited from taking progesterone in the form of drugs.

And the most important thing. Only the attending physician should prescribe “Utrozhestan” and “Duphaston” at the same time (in the same way as separately)! A woman should not prescribe medicines to herself, relying on her own experience, recommendations of her friends or information from the Internet.

How to switch from “Dyufaston” to “Utrozhestan”?

Sometimes this question may also arise. Most often it is connected with the fact that the drug is not suitable for a woman for some reason, or she has the opportunity to purchase Utrozhestan at a discount or even free of charge. And, perhaps, for medical reasons, the doctor independently decides to transfer the patient from one drug to another. Be that as it may, it is possible to take “Utrozhestan” after “Duphaston”, but this must be done under the supervision of a specialist, strictly adhering to the scheme assigned by him.

A few words in conclusion

The indications for the use of "Utrozhestan" and "Duphaston" are very similar to each other. They can be prescribed when planning pregnancy, infertility, the onset of menopause, irregularities in the menstrual cycle, the threat of miscarriage, and the like. Both the one and the other drug contains an important active substance - the hormone progesterone, which is responsible for the function of conception and bearing the embryo.

But which is better and more effective - "Utrozhestan" or "Duphaston"? The answer to this question cannot be unambiguous. Only the attending physician has the right to prescribe this or that drug. At the same time, he takes into account not only the composition of each drug and its contraindications, but also the clinical situation of the woman herself, as well as how long it will take to take the drug.

For example, if you pay attention to the naturalness of the components of the drug, then it is best to use "Utrozhestan". If we are talking about an allergic woman, then they can prescribe "Duphaston", as it causes a minimum number of side effects. On the other hand, natural progesterone is able to reduce the level of male hormones in the female body, while its “competitor” does not have such capabilities.

And yet, we repeat, only a specialist has the right to prescribe this or that hormonal agent, as well as to prescribe this or that form of release, dosage or schedule of administration. Both drugs are equally effective and have important properties in relation to pregnancy planning, carrying a baby and normalizing the menstrual cycle.

To eliminate the threat of spontaneous abortion, most often doctors choose between Dufaston and Utrozhestan. Both drugs contain the same substance - progesterone, which ensures the safe bearing of the fetus and childbirth without complications. Also, these medicines are used in the treatment of gynecological diseases. Despite approximately the same effect, medicines have several differences in their effect on the body.

Duphaston and Utrozhestan: comparative characteristics of drugs

Dyufaston and Utrozhestan have a similar composition, but differ in the structure of progesterone. The first drug contains synthetic components, the second contains natural ones. When choosing a medication, in addition to the origin of the hormone, the form of release of the medication, contraindications and the likelihood of side effects are taken into account.

Description of medicines

Duphaston contains a synthetic analogue of progesterone - dydrogesterone. Unlike other artificial female sex hormones, it does not have androgenic activity, is easily absorbed by the body and practically does not cause complications. It is produced in the form of tablets, each of which contains 10 mg of an artificial hormone.

Comparison shows that Utrozhestan, made from natural raw materials, is stronger in therapeutic effect. The drug reduces the contractility of the uterus and inhibits the proliferation of the mucous membrane (endometrium). It is produced in capsules and suppositories for intravaginal use, which contain 100 and 200 mg of the active ingredient.


Indications and contraindications

Duphaston is most often used in the treatment of gynecological pathologies, in particular dysmenorrhea and endometriosis. It is prescribed for disruptions in the menstrual cycle, symptoms of premenstrual syndrome in women, hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This drug is indispensable for dysfunctional uterine bleeding. The indication for the use of the drug is also infertility and the threat of miscarriage associated with a deficiency of progesterone in pregnant women.

Utrozhestan has similar indications for admission. Due to its natural origin, the drug is often used during pregnancy planning, in IVF and for the treatment of infertility caused by an excess of male hormones in the body. The medication is effective against pathologies such as uterine fibroids and endometriosis.


Duphaston is easily tolerated by patients and has practically no contraindications. It is forbidden to take this medication with individual intolerance to its components and liver pathologies. Despite the fact that the medication does not have a harmful effect on the fetus and can be used during pregnancy, it is recommended to stop taking the drug while breastfeeding.

Utrozhestan has many more contraindications, which is explained by its natural origin.

It is unacceptable to use the drug for the following diseases and conditions:

  • liver and kidney disease;
  • vaginal bleeding of unknown etiology;
  • cerebral hemorrhage;
  • the presence of neoplasms in the genital system and mammary glands.


Scheme of application and dosage

The regimen of the drug is determined by the doctor individually. In addition to contraindications to the drug, the age of the woman and the approximate duration of treatment are taken into account. The average daily dose of Utrozhestan is 200 mg, but may increase depending on the severity of the pathology.

The regimen for taking the drug, depending on the clinical case:

  • planning pregnancy - once a day;
  • IVF - 600 mg (suppositories) 3 times a day;
  • the threat of miscarriage - up to 400 mg daily, divided into 3-4 doses;
  • MMT with menopause - 1 time per day for 25 days.

The daily dose of Duphaston is 10 mg. Depending on the pathology, the following treatment regimens are used:

  • threat of miscarriage - 40 mg once, then 10 mg every 6 hours until the condition of the pregnant woman stabilizes;
  • MMT with menopause - once a day;
  • uterine bleeding - 20 mg 2 times a day;
  • dysmenorrhea, menstrual irregularities - similar to the above scheme from 5 to 25 days of the cycle.

The drug should be taken before or after a meal (after 30 minutes), and in the evening - before bedtime, washed down with water (for more details, see the article: how to take Duphaston: before or after meals?). The treatment continues until a stable therapeutic effect is achieved. As a rule, therapy with Utrozhestan continues during the first trimester of pregnancy (for more details, see the article: Utrozhestan: instructions for use during pregnancy). If after 3 months of treatment the threat persists, it is recommended to switch to another drug.


In order to avoid remission of the pathology after achieving a therapeutic effect, it is necessary to gradually reduce the dose of the medication. It is recommended to reduce the dosage by 1/4 and carefully monitor the woman's condition. If within a week the pregnant woman is feeling well and there is no risk of miscarriage, the dose is reduced every 7 days, gradually completing the medication.

Side effects

Reception of Duphaston is practically not accompanied by side effects. The drug does not affect the work of the central nervous system, therefore, after taking it, you can safely sit behind the wheel and not interrupt activities that require concentration. In rare cases, there is painful swelling of the mammary glands and uterine bleeding. In the latter case, the doctor increases the dosage of the drug.

Reception of Utrozhestan is accompanied by a number of side effects:

  • hives;
  • headache, drowsiness or, conversely, insomnia, increased fatigue;
  • violation of the menstrual cycle (reduction or appearance of acyclic bleeding), swelling of the mammary glands;
  • bloating, constipation, or diarrhea;
  • joint pain;
  • weight gain.

The listed side effects are eliminated by intravaginal use of the drug or by switching to safe Dufaston. Complications from treatment with suppositories occur in exceptional cases and are most often associated with intolerance to soy lecithin, which is part of the drug. Side effects appear in the form of local reactions:


  • burning;
  • hyperemia;
  • urticaria in the genital area;
  • oily vaginal discharge.

Which drug is more effective?

Dyufaston and Utrozhestan are equally effective. When choosing a drug, they are guided not by the speed of the therapeutic effect, but by the possible side effects. The difference is that the first medication is easily tolerated and can be used in the last stages of pregnancy. The second drug is preferable to use in the treatment of gynecological diseases.

When planning a pregnancy

When choosing what to take, Duphaston or Utrozhestan, take into account the severity of the pathology that prevents the embryo from taking root. Utrozhestan, which contains natural progesterone, is used for long-term fertility treatments. The medication can be used intravaginally, which ensures rapid assimilation of the hormone, therefore it is prescribed in cases requiring an immediate result, in particular with IVF.

With the threat of miscarriage

Both drugs are equally effective in normalizing the tone of the uterus, preventing miscarriage. In the early stages, Utrozhestan is often prescribed. This allows the embryo to enter the uterus better.

If the risk of spontaneous termination of pregnancy persists in the following months, in order to avoid harmful effects on the fetus, it is better to switch to Duphaston.

Gynecological pathologies

For the treatment of gynecological pathologies, Dufaston is most often used. The drug is especially effective against endometriosis - the proliferation of the endometrium due to progesterone deficiency. The medication is used in conjunction with minimally invasive treatment methods. This prevents the appearance of new foci of inflammation.

Duphaston is prescribed for painful menstruation. Dysmenorrhea is associated with a lack of progesterone and an increase in estrogen production. This hormonal imbalance provokes myometrial hypoxia and intense contractions of the uterus. The drug not only relieves pain, but also eliminates the consequences of dysmenorrhea, such as swelling and feeling unwell.

Can Duphaston and Utrozhestan be used at the same time?

The combined use of Duphaston and Utrozhestan is also possible and is not accompanied by side effects. The appointment of two drugs at the same time is necessary to improve the effectiveness of treatment when a woman is diagnosed with a significant lack of progesterone. The decision on the need to combine medications is made by the doctor after an additional examination.