Gestrinone

About Gestrinone

This belongs to the group of medicines known as gonadotrophin release inhibitors.

Gestrinone opposes the effects of oestrogen and progesterone. These are hormones produced by the body which take part in the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle.

Gestrinone is used in the treatment of endometriosis. This is a condition where fragments of tissue similar to the lining of the womb grow outside the womb in other areas of the pelvis. This tissue also undergoes periodic changes, causing pain and menstrual problems.

Gestrinone is available in capsule form.

It is also sometimes known as: Dimetriose. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Gestrinone

Before taking Gestrinone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart, circulation, kidney or liver problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to Take Gestrinone

• Take Gestrinone exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Gestrinone is usually taken twice a week starting on the first day of your menstrual cycle with the second dose three days later. Keep to the same days each week and the same time of day. If you are not sure when to start taking your tablets speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Important: If you miss a dose of Gestrinone, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking it on the usual days. If you miss more than one dose, contact your doctor for advice. Your doctor will probably want you to stop taking Gestrinone and continue again at the start of your next cycle.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Gestrinone contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Gestrinone is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Gestrinone.

Can Gestrinone cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Bleeding between menstrual periods, acne, oily skin, fluid retention (bloatedness and swelling of the limbs), weight gain, hairiness, voice changes, headache, upset tummy, changes in sexual desire, hot flushes, decrease in breast size, nervousness, depression, changes in appetite or muscle cramps.

If you experience any other worrying side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Gestrinone

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 30/06/2005