Buy Cycrin
Cycrin

0.64
A progestin hormone used to treat menstrual disorders and prevent overgrowth of the uterine lining.


Availability
In Stock
Delivery
Airmail (14-21 days) | EMS trackable (5-9 days)
Product is shipped in a fully discreet envelope with no content disclosure, including all required documentation inside

Product Sheet

Alternative/Local Brand
Provera
Active Ingredient(s)
Medroxyprogesterone
Primary Category
Hormone Therapy
Therapeutic Class
Genito-urinary system and sex hormones, Progestogens
Pharmacological Class
Progestin derivatives
Indications
Absent menstrual periods, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Endometrial hyperplasia prevention
Contraindications
History of blood clots, Breast cancer, Liver disease, Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
Minor Side Effects
Breast tenderness, Headache, Weight changes
Moderate Side Effects
Changes in menstrual flow, Acne, Insomnia
Serious Side Effects
Sudden shortness of breath, Severe headache or vomiting, Chest pain, Lumps in the breast
Dosage Forms
Tablet
Administration Route
Oral
Mechanism of Action
This medication is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It works by replacing the hormone in women who do not produce enough naturally and by signaling the uterus to stop growing its lining and start shedding it.
Prescription Status
Rx
Manufacturer
Wyeth-Ayerst
Patient Summary
A progestin hormone used to treat menstrual disorders and prevent overgrowth of the uterine lining.
Onset Time
Several days of consistent use
Duration
Varies by treatment cycle
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature away from light.
Drug Interactions
Rifampin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, St. John's wort
Age Restrictions
Not for use before menarche
Pregnancy Use
Not for use during pregnancy; can cause birth defects.
Alternative Drugs
Medroxyprogesterone, Utrogestan

Cycrin: Medroxyprogesterone Overview

Cycrin contains medroxyprogesterone as its active component. It is a synthetic progestin belonging to the class of hormones used in women's health. The medication is supplied as a pill in two strengths: 5 mg and 10 mg. In Hong Kong, Cycrin is a prescription-only product and is regulated by the Hong Kong Department of Health.

How Cycrin Works in the Body

Medroxyprogesterone mimics the activity of the natural hormone progesterone. By binding to progesterone receptors in the uterus, breast, and brain, it helps regulate the menstrual cycle and alters the hormonal environment. The drug’s actions include:

  • Endometrial stabilization - reduces the growth of the uterine lining, which can help control abnormal bleeding.
  • Suppression of ovulation - at certain doses, it prevents the release of an egg, contributing to contraceptive effects.
  • Anti-androgenic activity - may lessen symptoms such as acne or excessive hair growth in some women.

Because medroxyprogesterone is taken orally, it is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, reaches peak blood levels within a few hours, and has a half-life of approximately 12-14 hours. The medication is metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted in the urine.

Conditions Treated with Cycrin

Cycrin is approved in Hong Kong for the following indications:

  • Management of menstrual disorders such as irregular periods, heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), and amenorrhea.
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in post-menopausal women when combined with estrogen, to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia.
  • Endometriosis - to alleviate pain and limit the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue.

These uses reflect the drug’s ability to provide progestogenic activity that balances estrogen effects and controls uterine lining proliferation.

Off-Label and Investigational Applications

Scientific literature reports some off-label investigations of medroxyprogesterone, but none are approved by regulatory agencies in Hong Kong. Examples include:

  • Prevention of preterm birth - small studies have explored progesterone analogues for women at risk of early delivery.
  • Management of certain gynecologic cancers - limited case series have examined progestins as adjunct therapy.

These applications are not approved, and any off-label use requires careful medical supervision and individualized risk assessment.

Who Should Not Use Cycrin? Contraindications

Absolute contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to medroxyprogesterone or any ingredient of the pill.
  • Active, severe liver disease.
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding of unknown cause.
  • Pregnancy - the drug can affect fetal development.

Relative contraindications

  • Controlled hypertension or diabetes that is not well managed.
  • History of thromboembolic disorders (e.g., deep-vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism).
  • Breast cancer or estrogen-dependent tumors.
  • Smoking in women over 35 years of age.

Special populations

  • Pregnancy & lactation: Cycrin is contraindicated during pregnancy. It passes into breast milk; breastfeeding mothers should avoid use.
  • Elderly: Dose adjustments may be needed for those with reduced liver function.
  • Women with a history of mood disorders: Progestins can occasionally influence mood; monitoring is advisable.

If any of these conditions apply, discuss alternatives with a healthcare professional.

Safety Profile: Side Effects and Interactions

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea or stomach upset - usually mild and transient.
  • Headache - may occur during the first weeks of therapy.
  • Breast tenderness - often improves with continued use.
  • Weight gain or fluid retention - reported in a minority of patients.

Serious Adverse Events

  • Blood clots - signs include swelling, pain, or redness in the leg, sudden chest pain, or shortness of breath. Seek urgent care if these occur.
  • Severe allergic reaction - rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
  • Liver dysfunction - jaundice, dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain warrant immediate evaluation.

Drug Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin) can lower medroxyprogesterone levels, reducing efficacy.
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) may increase drug concentration, heightening side-effect risk.
  • Anticoagulants - progestins can modestly increase clotting risk; careful monitoring of INR or other coagulation parameters is advised.
  • Hormonal contraceptives - concurrent use may amplify progestogenic effects; dose adjustments may be necessary.

Patients should provide a complete medication list, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, before starting Cycrin.

Food and Lifestyle Interactions

  • Food: The pill can be taken with or without food; however, a high-fat meal may slightly delay absorption, which is not clinically significant.
  • Alcohol: Moderate consumption is acceptable, but excessive intake can increase the risk of liver strain.
  • Driving: No impairment is expected, but individuals who experience dizziness should avoid operating machinery until symptoms resolve.

How to Take Cycrin

  • Standard dosing: The usual prescribed dose is 5 mg or 10 mg once daily, depending on the condition being treated and the physician’s assessment.
  • Timing: Take the pill at the same time each day to maintain an even hormone level.
  • Special populations:
  • Renal impairment: No specific dose reduction is required, but liver function should be evaluated.
  • Hepatic impairment: Reduce the dose or consider an alternative, as the drug is metabolized by the liver.
  • Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the pill unless instructed.
  • Missed dose: Take the missed tablet as soon as remembered on the same day; skip the next dose if it is close to the scheduled time. Do not double the dose.
  • Overdose: Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or excessive bleeding. Seek emergency medical attention; supportive care is the mainstay of treatment.
  • Discontinuation: For long-term use, tapering is generally not required, but abrupt cessation may cause breakthrough bleeding. Discuss a plan with a clinician.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Baseline labs: Liver function tests and a complete blood count before initiating therapy.
  • Periodic assessment: Women on Cycrin for more than three months should have liver enzymes checked every 6-12 months, especially if they have risk factors for hepatic disease.
  • Clinical review: Evaluate menstrual patterns, bleeding, and any new symptoms at each follow-up visit.
  • When to contact a provider: Unexplained vaginal bleeding, signs of clotting, severe abdominal pain, or any allergic reaction.

Storage and Handling

  • Store Cycrin tablets at room temperature (15-30 °C), away from excess moisture and direct sunlight.
  • Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children.
  • Do not use the medication after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
  • Dispose of unused tablets in accordance with local pharmacy take-back programs or waste-disposal guidelines.

Medication-Specific Glossary

Progesterone receptor
A protein within cells that binds progesterone or synthetic progestins, triggering hormonal responses that affect the menstrual cycle and uterine lining.
Endometrial stabilization
The process by which progestins keep the lining of the uterus from proliferating excessively, thereby reducing abnormal bleeding.
Half-life
The time required for the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream to fall by 50 %. For medroxyprogesterone, this is roughly 12-14 hours.
CYP3A4
An enzyme in the liver that metabolizes many medications. Variations in its activity can alter how quickly medroxyprogesterone is broken down.

Medical Disclaimer

This article provides educational information about Cycrin and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.

Cycrin FAQ

What should I do if I experience breakthrough bleeding while on Cycrin?

Breakthrough bleeding can occur during the first few months of therapy as the body adjusts. Record the frequency and volume, and contact your healthcare provider if bleeding is heavy, prolonged, or accompanied by pain.

Can Cycrin be used as a standalone contraceptive method?

Cycrin provides progestogenic activity, but it is not approved as a sole contraceptive in Hong Kong. For reliable birth control, it should be combined with estrogen or used alongside another approved method.

How does Cycrin differ from other progestin pills on the market?

Cycrin’s active ingredient, medroxyprogesterone, has a longer half-life and stronger receptor affinity compared with some other synthetic progestins. This allows once-daily dosing, but individual response varies.

Is it safe to travel internationally with Cycrin tablets?

Yes, provided you carry the medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Some countries may require a doctor’s note for hormonal medications, so check local regulations before departure.

Do I need to avoid certain foods while taking Cycrin?

There are no specific food restrictions. However, a balanced diet supports overall hormonal health, and excessive alcohol should be limited to reduce liver strain.

Can Cycrin affect the results of a urine pregnancy test?

Progestins do not interfere with the detection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in standard urine tests, so the test remains reliable.

What are the inactive ingredients in Cycrin tablets?

Typical excipients include lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate. If you have known allergies to these substances, verify the full ingredient list with your pharmacist.

How long does it take for menstrual cycles to regularize after starting Cycrin?

Most women notice a more regular pattern within 2-3 months, though full stabilization may require up to six cycles.

Is Cycrin compatible with hormone replacement therapy that includes estrogen?

Yes, medroxyprogesterone is commonly paired with estrogen in HRT to protect the uterine lining. The combination dose should be prescribed by a clinician.

Are there any special considerations for women with a history of breast cancer?

Progestins can stimulate estrogen-sensitive tissues; therefore, Cycrin is generally contraindicated in women with active or a history of estrogen-dependent breast cancer. Alternative therapies should be explored.

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