How Long Can Megestrol Be Taken For Irregular Menstrual Bleeding?

Posted on Thu, 26 May 2016

Question: I am on xarelto for 3 months after developing a clot in a portal vein possibly from gastric sleeve surgery on 2/17/16. I was taking megestrol 40mg twice a day to control irregular menstrual bleeding as I am a 44yr old female in perimenopause. I was supposed to go off the megestrol on 3/1/16 and begin taking norethindrone 5mg once a day to control the bleeding. I did not start the new med due to the clot. However the bleeding is out of control, completely affecting every area of my life. My gyno says ask hematologist, the hematologist said it's OK and GP said it was OK to take since I'm on xarelto. I am scared but I need to do something. Can I take the meds and should I take the megestrol 40mg twice a day for fast relief or should I take the norethindrone 5mg once a day. I hope you can help. I am a dental hygienist back to work tomorrow and I'm not sure I will make it through one patient without having to run to change my feminine protection.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Soumen Patra (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You can continue Megestrol for another 2 weeks.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing to us. Followings are my comments:

1) If you are currently taking XARELTO medicine, then I can suggest you to continue Megestrol 40 mg twice daily to control heavy bleeding for another 2 weeks. It is more effective in your case. In addition, you must take IRON supplements to combat possible anemia.

2) If bleeding is slightly controlled, then you can switch to other available options like Depo-Provera, Mirena, Endometrial ablation etc. Norethindrone can be taken in this case, but dose should be increased (i.e twice daily) to control bleeding. Maintain genital hygiene properly.

Hope, I have answered your query. Wish your good health and take care.

For future query, you can directly approach me through

http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/Funnel?page=askDoctorDirectly&docId=63326

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Soumen Patra (16 minutes later)

Thank you for your time and thorough answer.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Soumen Patra (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Most welcome.

Detailed Answer:
Most welcome dear in this platform. I will be happy to help you in future also. Be stress free.

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T