Yes. Dydrogesterone’s absorption is not significantly affected by food, so the tablet may be taken with or without meals. Consistency in timing helps maintain stable hormone levels.
Most women notice a regularisation of their cycle within one to two menstrual periods after beginning therapy, although individual response times can vary.
Because dydrogesterone has a low androgenic and estrogenic activity, it does not markedly increase clotting risk, but any history of thrombosis should be discussed with a prescriber before use.
In the UK, the 10 mg Duphaston tablet is typically embossed with “D 10” on one side and the manufacturer’s logo on the other, though minor variations may exist between batches.
Yes, but carry the medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Some countries require a doctor’s letter for hormone-related drugs, so check the destination’s import regulations before travel.
St. John’s Wort is a strong inducer of the CYP3A4 enzyme, which can lower dydrogesterone levels and reduce efficacy. Patients using such supplements should inform their prescriber.
Weight changes are not a common side effect of dydrogesterone. Any noticeable weight fluctuation should be evaluated for other causes.
Dydrogesterone is not listed as a prohibited substance by major sporting agencies (e.g., WADA). However, athletes should verify current regulations before competing.
Do not throw tablets into household waste. Return unused medication to a pharmacy’s take-back service or follow local hazardous-waste disposal instructions.
Co-administration is possible, but overlapping hormonal effects should be reviewed. Generally, a prescriber will assess the need for both agents and adjust dosing accordingly.
Duphaston is a prescription medication marketed in the United Kingdom that contains dydrogesterone as its sole active ingredient. It is supplied as a 10 mg oral tablet (pill) and is classified within the women’s health therapeutic area. Dydrogesterone is a synthetic progestogen that mimics the activity of natural progesterone, a hormone essential for the normal functioning of the female reproductive system. In the UK, Duphaston is regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and is available only with a prescription.
Dydrogesterone exerts its effects by binding to progesterone receptors in target tissues such as the uterus, breast, and brain. This interaction triggers the same downstream pathways that natural progesterone would activate, leading to:
Because dydrogesterone is chemically distinct from natural progesterone, it is less likely to be converted into androgenic or estrogenic metabolites, providing a more focused pro-gestational effect with fewer hormonal side-effects. Oral absorption of the 10 mg tablet is rapid, with peak plasma concentrations typically reached within 2-4 hours. The drug is metabolised primarily in the liver and excreted in the urine.
These indications are authorised by the MHRA based on clinical trials and established practice within the UK.
Disclaimer: Off-label use of Duphaston must be overseen by a qualified healthcare professional, with a thorough risk-benefit assessment for each individual patient.
If any of the above conditions apply, discussion with a healthcare provider is essential before initiating therapy.
Patients are advised to provide a complete medication and supplement list to their prescriber to minimise interaction risk.
Special populations
Administration tips
Missed dose
Overdose
Discontinuation
Routine laboratory monitoring is not mandatory for standard dosing, but clinicians may order tests based on individual health status.
This article provides educational information about Duphaston and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.
