Duphaston prescription: what you need to know

If your doctor mentioned Duphaston, you probably want clear, practical info about why it’s prescribed, how to take it, and what to watch for. Duphaston is a brand name for dydrogesterone, a synthetic progesterone used to treat several hormone-related problems. It often helps with menstrual irregularities, luteal phase support in fertility treatment, and some cases of threatened miscarriage. Read on for simple, useful facts so you can talk to your provider with confidence.

When doctors prescribe Duphaston

Common reasons include irregular or heavy periods caused by progesterone deficiency, luteal phase defect during fertility treatment, and prevention of recurrent miscarriage linked to low progesterone. Some clinicians use Duphaston for premenstrual syndrome and certain types of endometriosis symptoms. Your doctor will decide based on your history, test results, and whether other treatments are better suited for you.

How to take it and what to expect

Duphaston usually comes as 10 mg tablets. Typical dosing ranges from 10 mg once daily up to 10 mg two or three times a day depending on the problem being treated. For luteal support in IVF or ovulation cycles, many protocols use 10 mg twice daily from ovulation until the pregnancy is confirmed. For threatened miscarriage, a common approach is 10 mg twice daily until around week 12, but directions vary and depend on your doctor. Always follow the exact dosing and duration your provider gives you.

Side effects are usually mild. Expect possible nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, or mild mood changes. Serious allergic reactions are rare but require urgent care. If you notice jaundice, severe abdominal pain, sudden swelling, or breathing problems, contact emergency services.

Dydrogesterone is processed by the liver, so tell your doctor about liver disease or medications that affect liver enzymes. Enzyme inducers like rifampicin, certain anticonvulsants, and herbal supplements such as St. John’s wort may reduce Duphaston’s effectiveness. Always give your full medication and supplement list to your prescriber and pharmacist.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding guidance varies. Many obstetricians prescribe Duphaston for early pregnancy support when progesterone is low, but doctors differ on routine use. Breastfeeding appears compatible with dydrogesterone, yet check with your provider.

To get a prescription, see your primary care doctor, gynecologist, or a fertility specialist. Telehealth visits often work if you can share test results. When filling the prescription, choose a licensed pharmacy and ask about generic dydrogesterone if cost is a concern.

Questions to ask your doctor: Why do you recommend Duphaston for me? What exact dose and duration should I follow? What side effects should prompt a call? Can any of my other medicines interfere? Clear answers make treatment safer and easier to stick with.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless the next dose is near; don’t double up. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture. If you plan surgery or start new meds, mention Duphaston. For long courses, doctor may check liver function. Keep a list of fertility dates for treatment.