Progesterone (Utrogestan): Widened access

About progesterone

Progesterone is a naturally occurring progestogen – a type of sex hormone. Progesterone is sometimes called ‘micronised progesterone’ and has all the same properties as the progesterone made in the body.

Progesterone has a range of uses, including for menopause hormone therapy (or ‘hormone replacement therapy’ (HRT)), prevention of pregnancy loss, prevention of pre-term labour, and gender affirming hormone therapy.

The current funded brand of progesterone, Utrogestan, is approved by Medsafe for use as hormone replacement therapy in combination with oestrogen in post-menopausal people with an intact uterus.

Health Navigator information(external link) 

NZ Formulary monograph(external link)

Medsafe datasheet [PDF](external link)

"Off label" uses

If progesterone is prescribed for a use that isn't listed in the Medsafe datasheet, it must be prescribed and used in line with section 25 of the Medicines Act 1981. 

Medsafe guidance for section 25 prescribing and dispensing(external link)

Pharmac has listed progesterone with open access, there are no funding restrictions. A prescriber could prescribe progesterone for any relevant use that they and their patient consider appropriate and it will be funded. 

Should I use progesterone if I'm experiencing menopause?

Talk to your doctor or a health professional you trust about whether progesterone, alone or in combination with other hormones, is right for you.

As with all medicines, there are risks and benefits. Your doctor will know your individual clinical circumstances and whether progesterone is right for you.

Who to contact

If you think Utrogestan might help, talk to a health care professional about whether it is right for you.

If you have any questions about the funding for progesterone, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz