Norethindrone

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jan 23, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Norethindrone


What does norethindrone do to periods?

Norethindrone is a synthetic progestin-only pill. It does not contain ethinyl estradiol or other forms of estrogen. Rather than allowing the endogenous progesterone levels to fall naturally during your menstrual cycle, norethindrone keeps your progesterone levels up. It delays shedding of the estrogen-primed endometrium and delays your period. Norethindrone prevents pregnancy by preventing ovulation (release of eggs from the ovary).



What is the advantage of taking a progestin-only pill like norethindrone?

Taking a progestin-only pill like norethindrone rather than a combined pill protects you against estrogen-related side effects, such as an increased risk of blood clots. Norethindrone may also be a better choice for breastfeeding women because estrogen can pass into breast milk and reduce a nursing mother’s milk supply.



Does norethindrone make you put on weight?

Norethindrone may cause weight gain in some women due to fluid retention and changes in appetite.



Does norethindrone affect mood?

Norethindrone can cause low mood. It can also affect mood because of side effects like weight gain, fluid retention, acne, increased hair growth, breast tenderness, and low sex drive.



What happens if I miss a dose of norethindrone?

If you miss a dose of norethindrone, you will not be protected against pregnancy. If you are more than 3 hours late in taking your pill, use a backup method of contraception for 48 hours.



What is the price of norethindrone without insurance? 

Without insurance, norethindrone can be as high as $49.99, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $9.00 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of norethindrone with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on norethindrone—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for norethindrone. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.