From the Guidelines
Blurry vision is not a definitive reason to discontinue progesterone therapy, but it warrants a prompt consultation with a healthcare provider to assess the severity of symptoms and determine the best course of action. The decision to continue, adjust, or discontinue progesterone should be based on individual patient needs and the severity of side effects. According to the European Respiratory Society guidelines 1, progesterone may be given for 12 months with clinical evaluation and lung function at 3 monthly intervals, and its continuation or withdrawal should be decided based on clinical evaluation and symptom progression, rather than side effects like blurry vision alone. Some key points to consider when evaluating blurry vision in patients taking progesterone include:
- The potential for progesterone to affect fluid retention, which may impact vision in some individuals
- The rare possibility of blurry vision signaling more serious conditions like blood clots or increased intracranial pressure
- The importance of not stopping prescribed progesterone suddenly without medical guidance to avoid hormonal imbalances or complications. It is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of progesterone therapy and consider the individual patient's health needs and medical history when making decisions about continuing or discontinuing treatment, as suggested by the expert opinion in the European Respiratory Society guidelines 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
In a few cases, symptoms may include blurred vision, difficulty speaking, difficulty with walking, and feeling abnormal If you experience these symptoms, discuss them with your healthcare provider right away. Use caution when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery as dizziness or drowsiness may occur. Some of the warning signs of serious side effects include: Changes in vision or speech Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of these warning signs, or any other unusual symptoms that concern you
Blurred vision is a symptom that should be discussed with a healthcare provider right away. It is also considered a warning sign of serious side effects, and patients are advised to call their healthcare provider immediately if they experience changes in vision. However, the label does not explicitly state that blurred vision is a reason to discontinue progesterone therapy. The decision to discontinue therapy should be made by a healthcare provider on a case-by-case basis, considering the individual patient's symptoms and medical history 2.
From the Research
Side Effects of Progesterone Therapy
- The studies 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 do not specifically mention blurred vision as a side effect of progesterone therapy.
- However, the studies do report various side effects of progesterone therapy, including fatigue, fluid retention, lipid level alterations, dysphoria, hypercoagulant states, and increased androgenicity 3.
- Natural progesterones are reported to have milder adverse effects, depending on the route of administration 3.
- Micronized natural progesterone is considered a safe and effective alternative to synthetic and natural progesterone formulations for various clinical and research applications 3.
Discontinuation of Progesterone Therapy
- There is no evidence to suggest that blurred vision is a reason to discontinue progesterone therapy 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- The decision to discontinue progesterone therapy should be based on the therapeutic need and the individual's response to the treatment, rather than a specific side effect like blurred vision 4, 5.
- It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for individual cases 4, 5, 6, 7.