Progesterone

General Drug Information and Indications

Supplemental progestogen for maintenance of pregnancy in at-risk mares; reproductive cycle management; combined with estradiol for estrus synchronization. Endogenous progestogen hormone. Mechanism: binds progesterone receptors (PR-A, PR-B) in uterus → promotes endometrial secretory transformation, reduces myometrial contractility, and supports early pregnancy. Negative feedback on pituitary LH/FSH secretion → anovulatory effect. Available as oil-based injectable or compounded topical/oral preparations. Key information HUMAN SAFETY: Wear gloves — dermal absorption. Refrigerate injectable solutions. Used for luteal supplementation and maintenance of early pregnancy in mares. Monitor progesterone levels to confirm therapeutic range.

How to Give this Medication

Injectable (oil-based): warm vial to room temperature; administer IM into large muscle mass. Oral (compounded): Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Topical (compounded cream): apply to mucous membranes or as directed using gloves. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This product is given as a single dose or as part of a defined protocol. Contact your veterinarian if a scheduled administration was missed. Contact your veterinarian for guidance on reproductive timing.

Side Effects

Pyometra/endometrial hyperplasia (intact females). Masculinization of female fetuses. GI: edema, weight gain. Mammary gland abnormalities (hyperplasia, neoplasia). Behavioral changes. Insulin resistance/diabetes mellitus (cats).

Precautions

For animals Intact females: risk of pyometra and endometrial hyperplasia. Stallion-exposed mares: behavioral effects. Monitor for signs of adverse reactions. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. (most formulations). For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Progestogen — avoid skin contact. Hormonal effects with chronic exposure. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Wear gloves when handling.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Progesterone overdose causes prolonged progestogenic effects and may affect reproductive outcomes.

Progesterone dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
PROGESTERONE 150 MG/ML INJECTABLE (LONG ACTING) - 30 ML150 MG/MLInjectable30 MLCompound

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Systemic Pharmacotherapeutics of the Reproductive System (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-reproductive-system/overview-of-systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-reproductive-system-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)