What is Crinone Gel Vaginale (Progesterone) used for?

Crinone Vaginale Gel (Progesterone) is a vaginal gel that contains natural progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone that is produced by the ovaries during the second half of the menstrual cycle. It is an essential hormone for preparing the uterus (womb) for pregnancy and on-going support of pregnancy.

Crinone Vaginale Gel is used to supplement progesterone in women who have luteal phase defect. It is also used to supplement or replace your own natural progesterone in Assisted Reproductive Technology procedures.

How should I use Crinone Gel Vaginale (Progesterone)?

The amount of Crinone used depends on the condition being treated. Your physician may prescribe one applicator of Crinone either daily or twice daily and will advise you when to start treatment. If pregnancy occurs treatment may continue for up to 12 weeks or as directed by your physician.

Crinone should be used at the same time each day. If used twice a day, one applicator of Crinone should be used in the morning and the other at night.

Follow these steps carefully or as instructed by your physician:

1. Wash your hands well with soap and water.
2. Remove the applicator from the sealed wrapper.
3. DO NOT REMOVE THE TWIST-OFF TAB AT THIS TIME.
4. Hold the applicator by the thick end. Shake down several times like a thermometer to ensure that the contents are at the thin end.
5. The plastic ball in the thin end helps the gel to move down to the tip of the applicator. The ball also helps to control the release of the gel. The applicator is designed so that the ball cannot exit it.
6. Hold the applicator by the flat section of the thick end. Twist off the tab at the thin end of the applicator and discard it. DO NOT squeeze the thick end while twisting off the tab. This may release gel.
7. Carefully insert the applicator into the vagina while you are in a sitting position or when lying on your back with the knees bent. Gently insert the thin end of the applicator well into the vagina.
8. Squeeze the thick end of the applicator firmly to push the gel into the vagina. Remove the applicator and discard into a waste container. There may be some gel left in the applicator. Do not worry, you will still be receiving the correct dose.

What are the side effects of Crinone Gel Vaginale (Progesterone)?

Common side effects include:

• cramps
• abdominal pain
• perineal pain
• headache
• breast enlargement
• decreased sexual drive
• sleepiness
• feeling emotional
• constipation
• nausea
• passing urine at night
• bloating
• pain
• dizziness
• vaginal discharge
• itching of the vaginal area
• vaginal thrush
• diarrhoea
• vomiting
• painful sexual intercourse
• painful joints

Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:

• rash (itching or hives)
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body
• shortness of breath
• wheezing or troubled breathing
• a tight feeling in your chest

Please Note

Do not use Crinone if you have, or have had any of the following conditions:

• cancer of the breast and genital organs
• porphyria
• you have abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been diagnosed, or is due to a recent or current missed abortion or miscarriage
• you have or have ever had blood clots or a stroke
• you have liver disease or abnormal laboratory results