Progesterone (Micronized Progesterone (Prometrium))
A bioidentical hormone with neuroprotective, sleep-promoting, and anti-estrogenic properties. Used in both male and female HRT protocols for mood stabilization, deep sleep enhancement, and estrogen balancing.
How it works
Agonizes progesterone receptors and GABA-A receptors (via allopregnanolone metabolite). Inhibits 5-alpha reductase, opposes estrogen proliferative effects, and promotes myelination in neural tissue.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: 314.46 Da
- Half-life: ~16-18 hours (oral micronized)
- Bioavailability: ~10% oral (first-pass); ~100% topical/vaginal
- Storage: Room temperature. Protect from light and moisture.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: 100-200 mg oral or 20-40 mg topical
- Frequency: Nightly (oral) or daily (topical)
- Duration: Ongoing
- Route: Oral capsule, topical cream, or vaginal
Reported benefits
- Enhanced deep sleep (GABA modulation)
- Neuroprotection
- Estrogen opposition
- Reduced anxiety
- DHT reduction (5AR inhibition)
- Cardiovascular protection
Possible side effects
- Drowsiness
- Mild dizziness
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes (rare)
- Bloating
Research
- Progesterone and neuroprotection after TBI (2020): Progesterone reduced neuronal cell death by 40% and improved cognitive outcomes in traumatic brain injury models.
- Oral progesterone and sleep architecture (2019): Micronized progesterone increased slow-wave sleep by 25% without next-day sedation, via allopregnanolone GABA modulation.
Compare Progesterone
Community discussions about Progesterone
- Unexpected bloating and mild dizziness on nightly micronized progesterone - 3 comments
- Micronized Progesterone: Sleep & Mood Boost? My 6‑week run - 9 comments
- Anyone running pregnenolone + progesterone together? Thinking about stacking - 4 comments
- First time on a peptide? How do I read the protocol and start safely? - 4 comments
- Ask the community about Progesterone
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.