Allylestrenol

Uses

This medication is prescribed to pregnant women to help them avoid the following medical conditions:

  -Premature birth

  -increased or recurring miscarriage

This medication is safe to use during pregnancy.

IUPAC name: (8R,9S,10R,13S,14S,17R)-13-methyl-17-prop-2-enyl-2,3,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,14,15,16-dodecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-ol

Drug class: Progestins

Route of administration: Oral

Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES

Is it an OTC drug? YES

Mechanism of action

Allylestrenol is a synthetic progestin-like female hormone. It works by promoting egg implantation in the womb (uterus) and also by increasing blood flow to the placenta in order to keep the pregnancy going. It aids in the prevention of premature labor by relaxing the uterine muscles.

Side effects

Side effects may include weight changes, unwanted hair growth, edema, muscle pain, headache, fatigue, depressed mood, anxiety.

Precautions

Before taking this medication, the following precautions should be taken: Inform your doctor.

If you have a history of migraines, blood clots, epilepsy, asthma, heart problems, kidney disease, diabetes, depression, partial or complete vision loss, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, stroke, liver disease, or abortion, you should consult your doctor.

This medication causes drowsiness or dizziness.