Brand Names for Vaginal Progesterone
The primary brand names for vaginal progesterone available in the United States are Crinone (progesterone gel) and Endometrin (progesterone vaginal tablets), with generic micronized progesterone capsules also widely used off-label for vaginal administration.
Available Formulations
Progesterone Gel
- Crinone is the FDA-approved brand name for vaginal progesterone gel, available in 4% (45 mg) and 8% (90 mg) concentrations 1, 2, 3
- The 8% gel (90 mg) is the formulation studied in clinical trials for preterm birth prevention in women with short cervix 4, 5
- Crinone provides sustained release with once-daily administration, reducing the inconvenience compared to suppositories 2, 3
Progesterone Vaginal Tablets
- Endometrin is the FDA-approved brand name for natural micronized progesterone vaginal tablets 6
- This is a newer formulation that has shown similar efficacy to vaginal gel and intramuscular progesterone 6
Micronized Progesterone Capsules (Used Off-Label Vaginally)
- Prometrium is an oral progesterone capsule (100 mg, 200 mg) that is frequently used off-label via vaginal administration 3, 7
- Utrogestan is another brand of micronized progesterone capsules (100 mg) approved in European countries and used vaginally 8
- Generic progesterone capsules 200 mg are also available and commonly used vaginally 7
- The 200 mg suppository/capsule formulation has been studied in randomized trials for preterm birth prevention 4, 5
Clinical Context
For Preterm Birth Prevention
- Both 90 mg gel (Crinone 8%) and 200 mg micronized progesterone suppositories are recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for women with short cervix (≤20 mm) 5, 9
- This use is off-label and requires patient counseling 5
- Treatment continues from diagnosis until 36 weeks of gestation 5, 9
Patient Tolerability Differences
- Crinone 8% gel demonstrates superior tolerability and acceptability compared to capsule formulations, with less leaking, less interference with intercourse, and easier administration 2, 8
- Both formulations cause perineal irritation in approximately 20% of patients 2
- Gel formulations may cause accumulation and buildup leading to irritation in some patients 6