*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Taking Utrogestan With Other Medicines And Herbal Supplements

NHS medicines information on possible interactions with Utrogestan (micronised progesterone) and other medicines, herbal remedies and supplements.

Cautions with other medicines

There are some medicines that may affect how Utrogestan works.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including:

epilepsy medicines such as phenytoin or carbamazepine
ampicillins or tetracyclines, types of antibiotic
medicines for HIV, such as ritonavir
medicines for tuberculosis, such as rifampicin
ciclosporin, an immunosuppressant
antifungal medicines such as ketoconazole or terbinafine
spironolactone, a medicine to make you pee more (diuretic)
medicines for diabetes
warfarin, a medicine to help prevent blood clots
diazepam, a medicine for anxiety and seizures or fits
tizanidine, a medicine for multiple sclerosis

Mixing Utrogestan with herbal remedies and supplements

There are several different herbal products sold to help relieve menopause symptoms. These include evening primrose oil, soya, red clover, black cohosh, ginseng and St John's wort.

St John's wort may stop Utrogestan from working as well.

It's not possible to say that other herbal remedies and supplements are safe to take with Utrogestan. They are not tested in the same way as pharmacy or prescription medicines. They're generally not tested for the effect they can have on other medicines.

All of these products might affect other medicines you're taking, so it's important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take them.

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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