Prometrium (progesterone).... does anyone know WHY it makes you feel drunk?

Question

I know that a commonly reported side effect of prometrium is a feeling of lethargy/dizzy/drunk. Does anyone know the mechanism behind this? I can't understand why a hormone that is naturally present in the body would make a person feel this way. I just started dose of 200mg and I would equate the feeling to taking a strong narcotic pain medicine.

I have a medical background and would like to better understand the physiology that makes one feel "drunk" while on this med.

Answer 1

Hello.
Visit:
http://www.wdxcyber.com/nmood11.htm
There are whole lot of sites having information about progesterone.
Just learn to google it..
Thanks.

Answer 2

What side effects may occur? Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Prometrium. More common side effects may include: Abdominal cramping, back pain, bloating, breast tenderness or pain, chest pain, constipation, coughing, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, emotional instability, fatigue, headache, hot flashes, irritability, joint pain, muscle pain, nausea, night sweats, swelling of hands and feet, upper respiratory infection, urinary problems, vaginal discharge, vaginal dryness, viral infection, vomiting. Special warnings about Prometrium To rule out cancer and other problems before you start taking Prometrium, your doctor will give you a complete physical exam, including examination of your breasts and pelvic organs. You also should have a Pap test (cervical smear). Tell your doctor if you experience any irregular vaginal bleeding while taking this medication. Remember that Prometrium can cause clot-related disorders. Check with your doctor immediately if you experience any of the warning signs listed in "Most important fact about this drug." Prometrium may cause some degree of fluid retention. If you have a medical condition that could be made worse by fluid retention--such as epilepsy, migraine, asthma, or a heart or kidney problem--make sure your doctor knows about it. Prometrium makes some women depressed. If you've suffered from serious depression in the past, alert your doctor if you think you're having a relapse You will probably need to stop taking Prometrium. Prometrium has a slight effect on insulin and blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, your doctor will want to watch you closely while you are taking this drug. Prometrium may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. If you experience extreme drowsiness or dizziness, the doctor may tell you to take Prometrium at bedtime. Because progesterone is processed in the liver and kidneys, the doctor will monitor you closely if you have a mild liver or kidney disorder. If you have severe liver disease, the drug should not be used at all.