Progesterone is indicated in amenorrhea and abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance in the absence of organic pathology, such as submucous fibroids of uterine cancer. Progesterone, converted from pregnenolone, also serves as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of gonadal steroid hormones and adrenal corticosteroids. Progesterone is a naturally occurring steroid that is secreted by the ovary, placenta, and adrenal gland. In the presence of adequate estrogen, progesterone transforms a proliferative endometrium into a secretory endometrium. Progesterone is necessary to increase endometrial receptivity for implantation of an embryo. Once an embryo is implanted, progesterone acts to maintain a pregnancy. Progesterone shares the pharmacological actions of the progestins. Progesterone binds to the progesterone and estrogen receptors. Target cells include the female reproductive tract, the mammary gland, the hypothalamus, and the pituitary. Once bound to the receptor, progesterone will slow the frequency of release of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus and blunt the pre-ovulatory LH (luteinizing hormone) surge. In women who have adequate endogenous estrogen, progesterone transforms a proliferative endometrium into a secretory one. Progesterone is metabolized primarily by the liver largely to pregnanediols and pregnanolones. Pregnanediols and pregnanolones are conjugated in the liver to glucuronide and sulfate metabolites. Progesterone metabolites that are excreted in the bile may be deconjugated and may be further metabolized in the gut via reduction, dehydroxylation, and epimerization. Common progesterone side effects may include: drowsiness, dizziness; breast pain; mood changes; headache; constipation, diarrhea, heartburn; bloating, swelling in your hands or feet; joint pain; hot flashes; or vaginal discharge.

Tanaproget (WAY-166989) is a nonsteroidal progesterone receptor agonist. It has been in Phase-II clinical trials as an oral contraceptive. The compound demonstrated a positive preclinical pharmacological profile in the treatment of endometriosis. The level of progesterone receptors in breast tumours can be used to guide the selection of endocrine therapies for breast cancer patients. Radiolabeled analogues of tanaproget have diagnostic potential as PET imaging agents for breast cancer.

Promegestone (R 5020) is a potent progestin devoid of androgenic side-effects and has marked anti-estrogenic activity. Promegestone is an AChR noncompetitive antagonist that may alter AChR function by interactions at the lipid-protein interface. Promegestone is used in the treatment of gynecological disorders due to luteal insufficiency.