Allylestrenol

Indications
Allylestrenol is indicated in Intra Uterine Growth Retardation (IUGR), Threatened abortion, Habitual abortion, Threatened premature delivery

Therapeutic Class
Female Sex hormones

Pharmacology
Allylestrenol is a synthetic progesterone derivative that is used to treat threatened pregnancies. It can stop occurring premature labor and can help women give birth to a healthy newborn. It stimulates the secretory phase in myometrium, creates conditions for development of fertilized ovum. It has a tocolytic effect; reduces sensitivity of myometrium to oxytocin. It stimulates the development of acinus of mammary glands, secretory activity of trophoblasts, and development of aldosterone by adrenal glands. Allylestrenol also has a selection of β-adrenergic effect. In this way, it stimulates the synthesis of the body's placental progesterone, therefore increasing the secretion of placental hormones.

Dosage & Administration
Threatened Abortion: 5 mg three times daily for 5-7 days. If necessary, the treatment period may be extended. After disappearance of the symptoms the dosage should be gradually reduced unless symptoms return.
Habitual abortion: 5-10 mg daily as soon as pregnancy has been diagnosed. The administration should be continued until at least one month after the end of the critical period.
Threatened premature labor: The dosage must be determined individually. High dosages (up to 40 mg daily) have been used.

Contraindications
Hypersensitivity; thrombophlebitis; undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, incomplete abortion, hormone-dependent carcinoma, cerebral apoplexy, as a diagnostic test for pregnancy; severe hepatic impairment.

Side Effects
Treatment with Allylestrenol (especially a long term treatment) is known to cause some gastrointestinal complaints such as vomiting, nausea, and sometimes epigastric discomfort.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Allylestrenol is specifically designed to be taken during pregnancy. It should be discontinued after delivery as it may affect a nursing infant to a small but noticeable degree.

Precautions & Warnings
Patients with the following conditions should be cautious: Heart disease, congestive heart failure, sick sinus syndrome, coronary artery disease, seizures, epilepsy, renal dysfunction, migraine headaches, or breathing diseases including asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or COPD, breast-feeding.

Use in Special Populations
It should not be used for children younger than 16 years old.

Overdose Effects
Symptoms of overdose may include unusual drowsiness; rapid pulse; fainting; unusual muscle movement or rigidity of the face, neck, or limbs; seizures; and loss of consciousness.

Storage Conditions
Store in a cool & dry place protected from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of the children.