What is Susten (Progesterone) used for?

Susten Gel (Progesterone) helps prepare the lining of the uterus for the arrival and implantation of the embryo. After implantation, Susten Gel (Progesterone) helps maintain the pregnancy until the placenta is able to provide its own hormonal support.

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. The lack of normal progesterone production by the ovaries in the second half of the menstrual cycle is called luteal phase defect. Women who have this defect may have difficulties in becoming pregnant and may have a higher risk of miscarriage.

Susten Gel (Progesterone) is used to supplement progesterone in women who have luteal phase defect. Susten Gel (Progesterone) is also used to supplement or replace your own natural progesterone in Assisted Reproductive Technology (eg IVF) program.

How should I use Susten (Progesterone)?

Susten Gel (Progesterone) is applied directly from the applicator deep into the vagina. The applicator is designed to deliver a pre-measured dose of Susten Gel (Progesterone). A small amount of gel will be left in the applicator after usage. Do not be concerned because you will still be receiving the required dose. Your physician may prescribe one applicator of Susten Gel (Progesterone) 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.

Susten Gel (Progesterone) should be used at the same time each day. If used twice a day, one applicator of Susten Gel (Progesterone) should be used in the morning and the other at night.

What are the side effects of Susten (Progesterone)?

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

Please Note

Do not use Susten Gel (Progesterone) if you have ever had an allergic reaction to progesterone. Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction may include: rash (itching or hives) on the skin, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body, shortness of breath, wheezing or troubled breathing or a tight feeling in your chest. cancer of the breast and genital organs 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 you have liver disease or abnormal laboratory results.

You must tell your physician if you have allergies to any other medicines or any other substances, such as foods, preservatives or dyes you are breast feeding you are or have been very depressed you are using other vaginal medications you suffer from migraines or epilepsy or asthma you suffer from heart or kidney or liver disease. See a physician for a check-up before you start to use Susten Gel (Progesterone). The check-up should include a Pap smear, pelvic examination and breast examination.

Susten Gel (Progesterone) should NOT be used at the same time as other vaginal preparations.

Further Advice:

Be sure to keep all your physician's appointments so your progress can be checked. Tell any other physicians or pharmacists you visit that you are using progesterone gel. If you are about to start taking any new medicines, tell the physician or pharmacist that you are using Susten Gel (Progesterone).