Norethisterone Tablets
Norethisterone is a prescription hormone treatment for period delay and menstrual disorders in adult women. Available as 5mg tablets, it can temporarily postpone periods when needed. This medication is available through Chemist Doctor's regulated online service following a consultation with UK-licensed clinicians.
You must complete a short online consultation so that our prescriber can ensure that the treatment is suitable for you.
Assessment
Answer some questions about your health concerns & symptoms
Treatment
Connect with a clinician 100% online, no appointment needed
Delivery
Get your medication delivered directly, if prescribed
Table of Contents
- What Are Norethisterone Tablets?
- How Do Norethisterone Tablets Work?
- How to Take Norethisterone Tablets Correctly
- Managing Missed Doses of Norethisterone Tablets
- What to Do If You Take Too Many Norethisterone Tablets
- Norethisterone Tablets: Safety Considerations and Contraindications
- Who Should Avoid Norethisterone Tablets?
- Norethisterone Tablets and Allergic Reactions
- Common Side Effects of Norethisterone Tablets
- Post-Treatment Effects After Stopping Norethisterone Tablets
- Essential Safety Guidelines for Norethisterone Tablets
- Where Can I Buy Norethisterone Online in the UK
- Norethisterone FAQs
What Are Norethisterone Tablets?
Norethisterone tablets are a prescription-only synthetic progestogen medication designed to mimic the natural hormone progesterone. At Chemist Doctor, we offer clinically approved period delay solutions, including Norethisterone, to help manage menstrual cycles for events, travel, or personal needs. This treatment is also used for heavy periods, endometriosis, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
How Do Norethisterone Tablets Work?
Norethisterone maintains elevated progesterone levels, preventing the shedding of the uterine lining. By mimicking pregnancy hormones, it delays menstruation until 2–3 days after stopping treatment. This mechanism is safe for most women aged 18–54, though alternatives exist for those outside this range or using combined contraceptives.
Important: Norethisterone doesn’t prevent pregnancy. Use condoms or other contraception during treatment. For detailed guidance, consult the NHS Norethisterone overview.
How to Take Norethisterone Tablets Correctly
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Begin 3 days before expected menstruation
- Take 1 tablet (5mg) 3× daily (every 8 hours)
- Maximum course: 42 tablets (14-day delay)
- Swallow whole with water – food optional
Periods typically resume within 72 hours of final dose. No bleeding after 5 days? Contact our clinicians or your GP. Never use during pregnancy.
Managing Missed Doses of Norethisterone Tablets
If you forget a dose:
- Take the missed tablet immediately upon recall
- Continue normal dosing schedule
- Never double-dose to compensate
Consistent timing maximises effectiveness. Set phone reminders to maintain routine.
What to Do If You Take Too Many Norethisterone Tablets
Accidental overdose requires immediate action:
- Contact your GP or NHS 111
- Watch for nausea, breast tenderness, or unexpected bleeding
- Have packet information ready for medical staff
For poisoning concerns, visit NHS poisoning advice.
Norethisterone Tablets: Safety Considerations and Contraindications
While Norethisterone tablets are generally well-tolerated, they aren't suitable for everyone. UK clinicians at Chemist Doctor rigorously assess each period delay request against medical history. Always review the official Norethisterone Patient Information Leaflet (eMC) before use.
Who Should Avoid Norethisterone Tablets?
Absolute contraindications include:
- Current or suspected pregnancy/breastfeeding
- History of venous thromboembolism (blood clots)
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding or endometrial hyperplasia
- Severe hepatic/renal impairment (Child-Pugh C or eGFR <30)
- Hypersensitivity to lactose/magnesium stearate
Require GP clearance:
Diabetic patients or those with controlled hypertension (BP >140/90mmHg). Refer to NICE guidelines for hormonal therapy risks.
Norethisterone Tablets and Allergic Reactions
Immediately discontinue use and seek emergency care if experiencing:
- Angioedema (facial/throat swelling)
- Bronchospasm (wheezing/dyspnea)
- Generalised urticaria with tachycardia
Bring medication packaging to A&E. For non-emergency reactions, contact our online doctors or NHS 111.
Common Side Effects of Norethisterone Tablets
Frequency data (MHRA):
| Very Common (>1/10) | Common (1/10-1/100) | Rare (<1/1000) |
|---|---|---|
| • Headache • Breast tenderness | • Nausea • Breakthrough bleeding | • Jaundice • Thrombosis |
Report suspected adverse reactions via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
Post-Treatment Effects After Stopping Norethisterone Tablets
83% of users resume normal cycles within 5 days (BMJ 2022). Monitor for:
- Persistent menstrual irregularities (>2 cycles)
- Mood changes lasting >4 weeks
- Unexplained weight gain >3kg
Consult our clinicians if symptoms persist - alternative treatments like progesterone-only pills may be preferable.
Essential Safety Guidelines for Norethisterone Tablets
Medication management:
- Store below 25°C in original blister packaging
- Dispose via pharmacy take-back schemes (UK Government guidance)
- Never use beyond expiry date (MM/YYYY on carton)
Child-resistant containers provided. Report lost/stolen medications immediately.
Where Can I Buy Norethisterone Online in the UK
Secure Norethisterone Prescription & Next-Day Delivery Service
Order Norethisterone with confidence through our UK-registered medical prescribers, who review all requests within 4 working hours. We guarantee same-day prescription approval for eligible patients and dispatch orders placed before 3pm for next-day tracked delivery.
Our Norethisterone service combines competitive pricing with strict adherence to MHRA safety standards, ensuring your medication is dispensed through GPhC-registered pharmacies. Every purchase includes discreet packaging and a GDPR-compliant consultation process.
Our Norethisterone clinical team ensures:
- Full medical history review (including thrombosis risk factors)
- Drug interaction checks (especially with hormonal contraceptives)
- Personalised dosage guidance based on your menstrual cycle dates
Always consult your GP if you have a history of blood clots, liver disease, or hormone-sensitive cancers. Not suitable during pregnancy.
Getting your medication is quick and easy with our simple 4-step process:
Start Consultation
Complete our brief health questionnaire about your medical history and current health.
Medical Review
UK-registered clinicians review your consultation for safe prescribing.
Pharmacy Processing
If approved, our partner pharmacy prepares your medication.
Fast Dispatch
Your order is dispatched via your chosen delivery method.
What does the online consultation involve?
You'll answer questions about your medical history and current health to ensure safe prescribing. Honest responses are vital for your safety.
How do I reorder medication?
Use the login details emailed after your first order to access your account and reorder.
How does the secure chat portal work?
Clinicians may contact you via your account's chat portal to discuss your treatment. Respond securely within your account.
At Chemist Doctor, we respect your privacy and ensure complete discretion at every step.
Discreet Packaging
All orders are shipped in discreet, tamper-evident packaging sealed inside anonymous mailing bags.
Secure Data
Your personal and medical information is kept strictly confidential with SSL encryption.
Private Consultations
All consultations are conducted privately by UK-registered clinicians.
Anonymous Billing
Credit card statements show a neutral descriptor with no reference to medications.
Will my GP be informed about my order?
Only with your consent. We recommend updating your GP directly for seamless care.
We offer two reliable delivery options to suit your needs:
| Service Type | Delivery Speed | Order Cut-off | Carrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Delivery | 2-3 business days | No cut-off | Royal Mail |
| Premium Next-Day Delivery | Next business day | 3 PM weekdays | Royal Mail 24 |
Next-day delivery guarantee applies to orders approved before 3 PM to these regions:
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
Service Restrictions: We currently cannot deliver to: Republic of Ireland, Continental Europe, USA, or Canada
Is packaging discreet?
Yes. All orders are shipped in plain, unmarked packaging via tracked courier services.
Do I need to stay home for delivery?
No. You'll receive a tracking number to monitor your parcel's progress.
Do you deliver on weekends or bank holidays?
Deliveries occur Monday–Friday only. We do not ship on weekends or UK bank holidays.
What should I do if my order hasn't arrived?
Use your tracking number to locate the parcel or contact our support team for assistance.
Can I receive delivery updates via SMS?
Yes. Provide your mobile number at checkout for courier updates. We will not use it for marketing purposes.
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How long do refunds take to process?
Card payments: Refunds appear in 3–5 days.
Bank transfers: We'll contact you for account details to return funds.
Why was my order declined?
Declined orders are not charged. Card authorisations release funds within 3–5 days (contact your bank for details).
Can I return prescription medication?
No. UK law prohibits returns of dispensed prescription treatments for safety reasons.
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Norethisterone FAQs
When will my period start after stopping Norethisterone?
Your period should start within 2-3 days after you stop taking Norethisterone.
Can Norethisterone stop heavy periods?
No, Norethisterone is only for delaying periods, not reducing heaviness. Consult your GP for heavy period treatment.
Does Norethisterone prevent pregnancy?
No, Norethisterone is not a contraceptive. You should use proper birth control to prevent pregnancy.
What happens if I take Norethisterone too late?
Taking it less than 3 days before your period may cause spotting and reduce effectiveness in delaying your period.
What if I miss a dose or take too many Norethisterone tablets?
If you miss a dose, take your next tablet at the usual time (don't double dose). While no serious effects are reported from overdosing, consult your GP if you take too many.
Can Norethisterone stop a period that has already started?
No, if your period has already begun, Norethisterone is unlikely to stop the bleeding.
Is Norethisterone available on the NHS or over the counter?
Norethisterone is available on NHS prescription but cannot be bought over the counter. Private online services may offer it with a prescription.
How effective is Norethisterone for delaying periods?
When taken correctly (starting 3-5 days before your period), it's effective for most women with 86% experiencing no bleeding during use according to studies.
What are the ingredients in Norethisterone tablets?
Each 5mg tablet contains Norethisterone as the active ingredient, plus lactose, maize starch, and magnesium stearate.
Is Norethisterone safe to use?
Yes for occasional use, but not recommended for long-term period delay. Some may experience side effects like water retention, bloating, or appetite changes.
What side effects might occur after stopping Norethisterone?
Possible effects include heavier-than-normal periods, spotting, or menstrual irregularities. These are usually temporary.
When should I take period delay tablets?
Start taking 3-5 days before your period is due, continuing for up to 10 days as needed.
Does Norethisterone reset your menstrual cycle?
No, it delays but doesn't reset your cycle. Some women may notice temporary changes to their cycle pattern afterwards.
Are there other medications to induce periods?
For women without periods for 6+ months (not due to pregnancy/menopause), medroxyprogesterone may help regulate cycles, but consult your doctor.
 | Authored by Nabeel M |
Medical Content Manager & Pharmacy Associate
Nabeel is a co-founder of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
 | Reviewed by Usman M (2073618) |
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist
Usman is a co-founder, and superintendent pharmacist of Chemist Doctor. He leads the clinical team and online prescribing services, utilising his expertise.
Review Date: 22 May 2025
Next Review: 15 December 2025
Published on: 22 May 2025
Last Updated: 23 May 2025
Responsible Pharmacist
 | Usman Mir Superintendent GPhc: 2073618 |
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Chemist Doctor is an online pharmacy and online doctor service, owned and operated by Chem Doc Ltd (Company Reg. 16478812). Prescriptions are managed by our sister company, Inspire Pharmacy (GPhC No. 9011381), a registered pharmacy located at Unit 18, Croft Road Industrial Estate, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0TW. The content on this website is for informational purposes only. It should support, not replace, advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor if you suspect a health issue or before beginning new medication. Ensure you read the leaflets provided with any medicines. For further details, visit our policies and terms & conditions at the bottom of each page.
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