Skip to main content

Norethindrone

Meaning

Norethindrone is a synthetic progestin, a compound structurally related to the naturally occurring hormone progesterone, used widely in hormonal contraception and specific regimens of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). As a potent progestational agent, its primary physiological role is to induce secretory changes in the endometrium and to inhibit ovulation by suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. It is classified as a first-generation progestin, often formulated alone in progestin-only pills or combined with an estrogen in combined oral contraceptives to manage symptoms of hormonal deficiency or to prevent pregnancy. Its specific metabolic profile and degree of androgenic activity are important considerations in clinical prescribing decisions.