Pregnenolone vs Progesterone
A side-by-side research comparison of Pregnenolone and Progesterone across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Pregnenolone | Progesterone |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Pregnenolone (Mother Hormone) | Micronized Progesterone (Prometrium) |
| Category | Hormone Replacement | Hormone Replacement |
| Status | OTC supplement / Prescribed | FDA Approved |
| Mechanism | Acts as the primary substrate for steroidogenesis (cortisol, DHEA, progesterone, testosterone, estrogen). Also functions as a neurosteroid, enhancing memory and NMDA receptor activity. | Agonizes progesterone receptors and GABA-A receptors (via allopregnanolone metabolite). Inhibits 5-alpha reductase, opposes estrogen proliferative effects, and promotes myelination in neural tissue. |
| Molecular weight | 316.48 Da | 314.46 Da |
| Half-life | ~1-3 hours (oral) | ~16-18 hours (oral micronized) |
| Bioavailability | ~60% oral | ~10% oral (first-pass); ~100% topical/vaginal |
| Typical dose | 50-100 mg | 100-200 mg oral or 20-40 mg topical |
| Frequency | Daily (morning) | Nightly (oral) or daily (topical) |
| Route | Oral capsule or sublingual | Oral capsule, topical cream, or vaginal |
Pregnenolone reported benefits
- Hormone precursor balance
- Memory enhancement
- Mood improvement
- Joint support
- Myelin sheath repair
- Stress resilience
Progesterone reported benefits
- Enhanced deep sleep (GABA modulation)
- Neuroprotection
- Estrogen opposition
- Reduced anxiety
- DHT reduction (5AR inhibition)
- Cardiovascular protection
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.