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Introduction About DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET

What is Duphaston 10mg Tablet?

Duphaston 10mg Tablet contains Dydrogesterone, a well-studied synthetic progesterone. It is often prescribed as part of a hormone support plan for individuals managing menstrual cycle irregularities or undergoing reproductive care. This tablet mimics the action of natural progesterone, contributing to a more stable hormonal profile.

Use Duphaston 10mg Tablet exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken orally with or without food. Dosage and duration depend on your specific health goals and medical history.

During management with Duphaston 10mg Tablet, your doctor will instruct you to have periodic blood tests and regular physical examinations to avoid the risk of unwanted side effects.

Duphaston helps support hormonal balance by mimicking the natural actions of progesterone during the second half (luteal phase) of the menstrual cycle. This can assist in regulating the uterine lining and promoting cycle regularity. Women who experience inconsistent cycles, mid-cycle spotting, or other cycle-related issues due to hormonal imbalances may benefit from its regulated use as advised by their healthcare provider.

Before starting Duphaston 10mg, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to evaluate the underlying cause of hormonal changes. Usage in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or with other hormonal therapies should always be discussed in advance. Do not take Duphaston 10mg Tablet, if you have any tumours in the body that is worsened by progesterone (meningioma).

The most common side effects of taking Duphaston 10mg Tablet are severe headache, nausea, breast pain or tenderness, and painful, heavy, or irregular periods. Consult your doctor if any of these side effects worsen.

Uses Of DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET

It is used to:

relieve menstrual pain
manage the symptoms of endometriosis and premenstrual syndrome
manage female reproductive health

Benefits of DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET

Supports regular menstrual cycle rhythm
Plays a role in hormone support routines
May be included in fertility management protocols under medical supervision

How DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET Works

Understanding the Role of Dydrogesterone

Duphaston 10mg Tablet contains Dydrogesterone, a synthetic form of the natural hormone progesterone. It mimics the hormonal activity needed for cycle regulation and supports the environment needed for hormone-responsive conditions. Unlike some other compounds, Dydrogesterone does not have androgenic or estrogenic effects, making it more selective in its action. This tablet is often used in hormone support strategies where balanced progesterone activity is essential.

Is Duphaston a natural or synthetic hormone?

Duphaston contains dydrogesterone, which is a synthetic hormone. It is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone

How Duphaston may help with menstrual irregularities?

During a normal menstrual cycle, progesterone levels rise in the second half (luteal phase) to prepare the uterus for possible pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, triggering menstruation. When the body does not produce enough progesterone, it can lead to irregular or missed periods, spotting, or cycle-related discomfort.

Duphaston compensates for this hormonal gap by providing dydrogesterone, which:

Helps maintain the natural rhythm of the menstrual cycle
Supports the uterine lining (endometrium) during the luteal phase
Encourages a predictable withdrawal bleed, simulating a natural period when the tablet is stopped

Duphaston Tablet uses in Pregnancy:

It is often prescribed during pregnancy to help maintain a healthy pregnancy, particularly in cases where there is a risk of miscarriage or preterm labor due to progesterone deficiency. It supports the uterine lining, making it more favorable for embryo implantation and helps sustain early pregnancy. Duphaston may also be used in women who have a history of recurrent miscarriages or those undergoing fertility management.

Duphaston Tablet Uses in Menstrual Disorders:

Duphaston helps balance hormones, reducing the intense uterine contractions that cause pain during menstruation. By reducing the growth of the endometrial tissue that grows outside the uterus, it relieves pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis. Duphaston helps stabilize hormone levels, reducing mood swings, bloating, and other symptoms of PMS.

How to use DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET

What is the usual dosage of Duphaston?

The dosage of Duphaston 10mg Tablet varies depending on the purpose and the individual's hormonal support plan
It is commonly taken once or twice daily during the second half of the menstrual cycle (luteal phase), often starting from day 14 to day 25
However, the exact dosage and duration should always follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional based on clinical assessment

Should I take Duphaston on an empty stomach?

Duphaston can be taken with or without food. Taking it at the same time every day helps maintain consistent hormone levels in the body
If you experience stomach sensitivity, you may take it with a light meal for comfort

What to do if you miss a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember
If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule
Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one

Administration guidelines for hormonal support plans

Always follow the day-specific cycle guidance (e.g., Day 14–25) as advised by your healthcare provider
Swallow the tablet whole with water
Do not crush or chew the medicine
Avoid sudden discontinuation without medical advice, especially if it is part of a phased hormonal plan

Overdose

If you or anyone else accidentally took more of Duphaston 10mg, consult your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital. Symptoms of overdosage might include nausea, sleepiness, dizziness, or vomiting.

Side Effects Of DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET

Possible side effects of Duphaston 10mg Tablet

Common

nausea
abdominal discomfort
changes in mood
headache
bloating

When to speak with your healthcare provider?

signs of angioedema (such as swelling of the skin around the face and throat, which may cause difficulty breathing)
signs of liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, feeling generally unwell with stomach pain)
signs of allergic reactions (such as difficulty breathing or reactions involving the whole body such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or low blood pressure)
signs of a blood clot (such as pain and swelling in the legs, sudden chest pain, or difficulty breathing)
sign of a heart attack (such as chest pain that spreads to your arm or neck)
stroke or severe, unexplained headache or migraine (with or without vision problems)
signs of breast cancer (breast pain or tenderness, swollen breasts, discharge from the nipples and changes in breast tissue)

How long do side effects of Duphaston last?

The duration of side effects from Duphaston 10mg Tablet can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as individual hormone sensitivity, dosage, duration of use, and overall health condition.

How To Manage Side Effects

Diarrhea

Try to rest and relax. Get enough sleep. Avoid driving or operating any tools or machines completely while you are feeling dizzy. Do not consume excessive alcohol, as it could aggravate your dizziness. Consult your doctor if your dizziness worsens.

Headache

Rest and relax. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or electrolytes. Applying a pain-relieving balm to your forehead can be beneficial.

Nausea And Vomiting

Take Duphaston 10mg with or just after meals. Stick to simple meals. Avoid eating oil-rich or spicy foods. Consult your doctor if your nausea worsens.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Monitoring required

Duphaston 10mg should be used in pregnant women only if it is considered necessary by the physician. Therefore, inform your doctor before taking Duphaston if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby.

Breastfeeding

Contraindicated

Duphaston 10mg is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. However, consult your doctor before taking the medicine.

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Do not drive or handle heavy machines if you experience dizziness after taking Duphaston 10mg.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor

Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Duphaston 10mg, as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Kidney

Use with Caution

Duphaston 10mg should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems.

Liver

Use with Caution

Duphaston 10mg should be used with caution in patients with liver problems.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take Duphaston 10mg if you are allergic to Dydrogesterone or any other ingredients of this medicine.

Lungs

Contraindicated

Duphaston 10mg is not recommended for use in patients with blood clots in their lungs (pulmonary embolism).

Heart Disease

Contraindicated

Duphaston 10mg is not recommended for use in patients with heart diseases.

Use In Pediatrics

Consult your doctor

Duphaston 10mg should be used in post pubertal female children (aged between 12-18 years) only if prescribed by the physician. It is not intended for use in male children or in female children who have not attained puberty.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

Duphaston 10mg should be used with caution in elderly patients (aged 65 years or older).

Other Warnings for DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET

Before taking Duphaston 10mg, inform your doctor if you:

have unexpected vaginal bleeding or spotting
have depression
have porphyria (a rare inherited blood disorder)
are planning for hormone replacement therapy
have early menopause (less than 6 months from the last periods)
have blood clots in your body
have any type of cancer
are overweight
are staying bed-ridden for a long time
have or ever had systemic lupus erythematosus (a serious disease in which the immune system attacks its own body)
are going to have surgery, a blood test, or a urine test

Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD

Duphaston 10mg is not recommended for use if you:

have a tumor that is worsened by progestogens (such as meningioma)
have irregular or unusually heavy periods

Diet and Lifestyle Advice

Tips on combining lifestyle habits (sleep hygiene, balanced diet, stress reduction) with Duphaston use for optimized hormonal balance:

1. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene: Quality sleep helps regulate the body’s endocrine (hormonal) system. Aim for:

7–8 hours of restful sleep per night
A consistent sleep-wake cycle
Minimizing screen time before bed (Poor sleep may disrupt progesterone sensitivity, which is important when using hormonal support tablets like Duphaston)

2. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Nutrition plays a key role in hormone metabolism. Include:

Whole grains, leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean proteins
Nutrients like magnesium, B-vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids
Adequate hydration to support metabolism and liver function
Avoid highly processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive caffeine, which can influence hormonal fluctuations

3. Manage Stress Effectively

Yes, stress can affect hormonal balance, and in some cases, may even influence how the body utilizes progesterone-like compounds. Prolonged stress increases cortisol, which can interfere with menstrual cycles and reduce the perceived benefit of hormonal supplements.

Incorporate:

Breathing exercises or meditation
Gentle physical activity (e.g., walking)
Mindful breaks during the day to manage emotional well-being

4. Regular Medical Monitoring: Even with the best habits, hormonal needs can shift. It is helpful to:

Follow up with your healthcare provider regularly
Share any changes in symptoms or lifestyle
Avoid starting or stopping supplements without guidance

Drug - Drug interaction

Medications that may affect how Duphaston works include:

Certain anti-seizure drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)
Rifampicin and other antibiotics known to impact liver enzyme activity
Some herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort, which can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal tablets
Other hormonal therapies, including those containing estrogen or synthetic progesterone

Synopsis

Drug	:	Dydrogesterone
Pharmacological Category	:	Progesterone derivative
Therapeutic Indication	:	Progesterone deficiency states
Dosage Forms	:	Tablet

More Information

Why Choose Duphaston 10mg Tablet?

Formulated for hormone-responsive health concerns
Trusted by healthcare professionals for regulated hormonal balance
Easy-to-administer oral format in convenient 10’s pack

Key Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Progesterone

Feature	Natural Progesterone	Synthetic Progesterone (Dydrogesterone)
Source	Derived from plant sterols (e.g., yam or soy)	Laboratory-made, structurally modified for specific effects
Chemical Structure	Identical to the body's natural progesterone	Slightly altered to improve stability and function
Common Forms	Creams, capsules, vaginal gels	Oral tablets (e.g., Duphaston 10mg Tablet)
Bioavailability	May be lower, varies by form	High oral bioavailability, especially in tablet form
Targeted Action	May have broader effects across multiple tissues	Primarily acts on the endometrium (uterine lining)
Cycle Support Role	Mimics natural luteal phase hormone levels	Supports cycle regulation when natural progesterone is low
Metabolism	Rapid metabolism may require more frequent dosing	Designed for efficient and sustained activity
Use in Clinical Protocols	Often used in integrative or personalized hormone support	Widely prescribed in clinical settings for hormonal support plans

Monitoring and Follow-Up While on Duphaston

Regular monitoring ensures Duphaston is working in harmony with your body’s hormonal rhythm. This is particularly important in personalized hormonal support plans.

What to expect during follow-up:

Assessment of menstrual cycle changes (e.g., regularity, flow, timing)
Monitoring for any side effects or unusual symptoms
Evaluation of hormonal levels, if required
Adjustments to dosage or timing based on cycle response

What you may notice after starting Duphaston

Common Observations Include:

More regular menstrual cycles, especially if cycles were previously irregular
Mild physical sensations, such as breast tenderness or mood changes during the luteal phase
Predictable withdrawal bleeding after stopping the tablet (based on cycle timing)
Stabilization of symptoms associated with progesterone imbalance, as part of the overall plan

FAQs About DUPHASTON 10MG TABLET

Q: What is Dydrogesterone?

A: Dydrogesterone is a synthetic form of progesterone used to help regulate hormonal functions in the body.

Q: Can I take Duphaston for cycle irregularities?

A: Duphaston may be recommended by your doctor as part of a larger hormone support plan. Always follow medical advice.

Q: Is Duphaston safe during pregnancy?

A: Use Duphaston only under medical guidance if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.

Q: Can Duphaston help regulate periods?

A: Yes, Duphaston 10mg Tablet may be recommended as part of a hormonal support plan to assist with menstrual cycle regulation. It contains dydrogesterone, a form of progesterone that works by supporting the natural hormone pattern in the luteal phase (the second half of the cycle). This tablet is often prescribed when individuals experience irregular or unpredictable periods, cycle-related discomfort and hormonal fluctuations impacting timing.

Q: Does Duphaston affect ovulation?

A: Duphaston is not designed to trigger or block ovulation. Instead, it supports the second half of the cycle by helping create a hormone environment favorable for cycle regulation and endometrial stability.

Q: Are there any side effects of Duphaston?

A: Common side effects include headache, nausea, breast tenderness, dizziness, bloating and skin reactions. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Q: Can Duphaston delay periods?

A: Yes, Duphaston can be used to delay menstruation. Consult your doctor for appropriate dosing and guidance.

Q: Is it safe to take Duphaston while breastfeeding?

A: Dydrogesterone may pass into breast milk. It is advisable to consult your doctor before using Duphaston during breastfeeding.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose and it is less than 12 hours late, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Q: Can Duphaston cause weight gain?

A: Weight gain is a possible side effect, potentially due to fluid retention. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage this effect.

Q: Can I take Duphaston with other medications?

A: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as Duphaston may interact with certain drugs, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects.

Q: What happens if I stop taking Duphaston suddenly?

A: Abrupt discontinuation may lead to a return of symptoms or withdrawal effects. Always consult your doctor before stopping the medication; they may recommend a gradual reduction.

Q: Is it normal to feel bloated on Duphaston?

A: Some individuals may experience mild bloating or abdominal fullness while taking Duphaston 10mg Tablet. This is considered a commonly reported response as the body adjusts to progesterone-like hormonal changes, especially during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

Q: Can Duphaston be taken during specific cycle days?

A: Yes, Duphaston 10mg Tablet is often recommended for use during specific days of the menstrual cycle, depending on the underlying hormonal need or the reason it is being prescribed. It is typically used to support the luteal phase, the second half of the cycle, which begins after ovulation.

References

1. KD. Tripathi. Estrogens, Progestins and Contraceptives. Essentials of Medical Pharmacology. Seventh Edition. 2013. Page – 316.

2. Dydrogesterone. NIH National Library of Medicine, National center for biotechnology information. PubChem. June 2022 [Accessed on 29th May 2025]

3. Abbott Biologicals BV. Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA). [Revised in August 2021] [Accessed on 29th May 2025]

4. Abbott Laboratories S.A. (Pty) Ltd. South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). [Revised in April 2012] [Accessed on 29th May 2025]

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Author Details

Written By Dr. Janet.C - Pharm.D

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. M N Himaja - MBBS

Last updated on 29 May 2025 | 05:40 PM(IST)