Gestodene

Information about Gestodene

Gestodene uses

Gestodene is used for contraception. It is used to prevent pregnancy in combination with another medicine.

How gestodene works

Gestodene is a progestin (female hormones). It works to prevent pregnancy by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary or preventing fertilization of the egg by sperm (male reproductive cells). It also may work by changing the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent the development of a pregnancy.

Common side effects of gestodene

Edema (swelling), Bloating, Anxiety, Irritation, Depression, Muscle pain

Available Medicine for Gestodene

    Expert advice for Gestodene

    • Caution should be exercised before taking gestodene if you are obese, have high blood lipids, heart problems, kidney/liver problem, sickle cell anemia (abnormal red blood cells) or varicose veins (dilated veins in legs).
    • You should undergo regular cervical smear tests while on gestodene therapy as it increases your risk of cancer of the cervix.
    • You should check your breasts and nipples regularly and report any abnormal changes seen during breast cancer, such as lumps or dimpling of the skin. 
    • Gestodene can affect the results of some tests. Inform your doctor that you are taking gestodene.
    • Gestodene may increase your risk of having a blood clot in the veins and arteries, especially in the first year or when restarting following a break of 4 or more weeks. 
    • Inform your doctor if you are planning to undergo a surgery as gestodene may cause complications in the surgical procedure due to blood clot formation.
    • Tell your doctor if you have family history of blood clots, had recent surgery or trauma, have metabolic problems, are above 35 years of age, immobile for a long period, have given birth in last 6-8 weeks.
    • Consult your doctor before taking gestodene if you have vaginal bleeding due to unknown reason.
    • Tell your doctor if you are or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

    Frequently asked questions for Gestodene

    Gestodene

    Q. What is Gestodene and what it is used for?
    Gestodene is a type of progesterone (a female sex hormone). It is used as a contraceptive in combination with another medicine (an estrogen).

    Content on this page was last updated on 18 February, 2020, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)