What is a common adverse reaction associated with progestins?

Weight gain is a well-documented adverse reaction associated with progestins, which are synthetic forms of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone. Progestins work by mimicking the effects of progesterone in the body, and one of the physiological effects of this hormone is to promote fat storage and influence metabolic processes.

Patients may experience weight gain due to increased appetite or changes in metabolism when taking progestins. This reaction is particularly relevant in contraceptive use, hormone replacement therapy, and treatment of various gynecological conditions where progestins are indicated.

While headaches can occur, they are less specific to progestins, and neither weight loss nor increased energy are commonly associated with these medications. Instead, weight gain tends to be a more notable and frequent side effect reported by patients under such therapy. This understanding is crucial for healthcare providers in monitoring patients for unwanted effects and for educating them about what to expect when initiating treatment with progestins.