Progesterone - Altrenogest

Description

Progesterone, along with altrenogest, which is a synthetic progestin, is used extensively in the reproductive management of mares to control the reproductive cycle, help maintain pregnancy, and help with behavior modification.

Usage

Progesterone may be used to prevent mares from coming into heat, to synchronize estrus cycles for better breeding efficiency, to organize or regulate heat cycles during the mare's seasonal transition, and to help maintain pregnancy. Progesterone is also used to modify estrus-related behaviors that interfere with performance and pleasure riding in non-breeding mares, and sometimes in stallions.

Dosage and Administration

Side Effects

There are no known side effects for altrenogest when used according to directions. The most common side effect of progesterone in oil is an injection site reaction, such as pain or swelling. These reactions usually respond to hot compresses and NSAIDs.

Precautions

Altrenogest has very serious potential side effects that can occur in humans who handle or administer the drug. Read package inserts carefully for handling instructions. Protective gloves should be worn at all times when handling this product.

Progesterone compounds, including altrenogest, should not be used in mares with chronic uterine infections.

Long-term use of progesterone compounds may delay return to normal reproductive cycles in mares.

Altrenogest is FDA approved for use with horses. Progesterone in oil is not FDA approved, but is commonly used and is accepted practice. Both drugs are prescription drugs. U. S. federal law restricts these drugs to use by or on the lawful written or oral order of a licensed veterinarian.

Progesterone compounds would be forbidden in any drug-free competition. Altrenogest is permitted in mares in some competitions. It is important to check with the appropriate regulatory group.

Interactions

Rifampin may increase the speed of metabolism of progesterone compounds.

Overdose

No information on overdose is available in the literature available.