Aygestin vs Femalegra: side-by-side comparison
Aygestin (Norethindrone) and Femalegra (Sildenafil Citrate) both belong to the Women's Sexual Health class. They share clinical context but use different active ingredients. The choice between them depends on mechanism nuances, side-effect profile and individual response.
| Property | Aygestin | Femalegra |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Norethindrone | Sildenafil Citrate |
| Manufacturer | Various generics | Sunrise Remedies |
| Class | Women's Sexual Health | Women's Sexual Health |
| Strengths | 5mg | 100mg |
| Forms | tablet | tablet |
What's the same
Aygestin and Femalegra both belong to the Women's Sexual Health class and are used for partially overlapping indications. The active ingredients — Norethindrone vs Sildenafil Citrate — share the same therapeutic approach, so many safety and management points carry across both.
Key differences
Meaningful differences are in active ingredient (Norethindrone vs Sildenafil Citrate), strengths (5mg vs 100mg), forms (tablet vs tablet), and the mechanism, half-life and side-effect nuances that distinguish members of the class.
Mechanism and action
Aygestin: Norethindrone binds to progesterone receptors and exerts progestational effects: thickening cervical mucus, suppressing the LH surge, thinning the endometrium and reducing endometrial implant activity in endometriosis. Femalegra: Sildenafil citrate inhibits PDE5, allowing cGMP to accumulate in vascular smooth muscle and increasing local blood flow during sexual arousal.
When Aygestin is preferred
Aygestin is approved for endometriosis-associated pain, abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance, and secondary amenorrhoea.
When Femalegra is preferred
Femalegra has no approved indication.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aygestin or Femalegra better? ▾
There is no single answer. Aygestin and Femalegra both belong to the Women's Sexual Health class but differ in mechanism nuances, half-life and side-effect profile. Preference depends on the patient, the prescriber and prior response to other therapies.
Can I switch from Aygestin to Femalegra? ▾
Switching within the Women's Sexual Health class is done under supervision, typically using equivalent doses and a follow-up period to confirm response and tolerance. It is not a self-directed decision.
Do Aygestin and Femalegra have the same side effects? ▾
They share many of the Women's Sexual Health class side effects, with differences from mechanism and dose. Each medication's prescribing information lists specifics.
More Aygestin comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.