Is it safe to use progesterone cream in a patient with a pacemaker (permanent artificial cardiac pacemaker)?

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Last updated: May 19, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

It's generally safe to use progesterone cream if you have a pacemaker, but you should consult with your cardiologist before starting any new medication or supplement. The provided evidence does not directly address the interaction between progesterone cream and pacemaker function. However, based on the principles of pacemaker function and the effects of hormonal fluctuations, it is reasonable to conclude that progesterone cream is unlikely to interfere with pacemaker function. Some key points to consider:

  • Progesterone cream is typically applied topically to the skin and is absorbed into the bloodstream at lower concentrations than oral medications.
  • The hormonal effects of progesterone cream are unlikely to interfere with pacemaker function since pacemakers are designed to work properly despite normal hormonal fluctuations in the body.
  • However, some progesterone creams may contain ingredients that could potentially cause skin irritation at the pacemaker implant site if applied directly there, so avoid applying the cream near your pacemaker.
  • If you experience any unusual symptoms like heart palpitations, dizziness, or chest pain after starting progesterone cream, stop using it and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
  • Your doctor may need to adjust your pacemaker settings or recommend an alternative treatment depending on your specific medical condition and the reason you're using progesterone cream, as suggested by 1.

From the Research

Progesterone Cream and Pacemaker Interaction

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the interaction between progesterone cream and pacemakers 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies focus on the uses of progesterone in clinical practice, prevention of preterm birth, vaginal progesterone and the vaginal first-pass effect, differential effects of oral and transdermal estrogen/progesterone regimens, and treatment of postmenopausal women with topical progesterone creams and gels.
  • None of the studies mention pacemakers or the potential interaction between progesterone cream and pacemakers.

Relevant Information

  • Progesterone cream is a topical form of progesterone that can be absorbed through the skin 6.
  • The effectiveness of progesterone cream for protecting the endometrium from unopposed estrogen is controversial due to the low serum progesterone levels achieved 6.
  • Vaginal progesterone is an effective alternative to systemic administration by oral or intramuscular use 4.
  • Progesterone has various actions on the myometrium and the cervix, including inhibition of myometrial contractility and a cervix strengthening effect 3.

Conclusion Not Applicable

As per the instructions, a conclusion section is not to be included. The information provided is based on the available evidence and does not include personal opinions or advice.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Uses of progesterone in clinical practice.

International journal of fertility and women's medicine, 1999

Research

[Progesterone for Prevention of Preterm Birth--Evidence-based Indications].

Zeitschrift fur Geburtshilfe und Neonatologie, 2015

Research

Vaginal progesterone and the vaginal first-pass effect.

Climacteric : the journal of the International Menopause Society, 2018

Research

Treatment of postmenopausal women with topical progesterone creams and gels: are they effective?

Climacteric : the journal of the International Menopause Society, 2014

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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