Prometrium vs Progesterone: are they the same?
Prometrium is a commercial brand whose active ingredient is exactly Progesterone. This page explains what that means in practice: where they differ (brand, manufacturer, price, available strengths), why they are clinically equivalent, and when the brand or an authorised generic is the better choice.
Are they the same?
Yes — Prometrium contains Progesterone as its active ingredient. Talking about "Prometrium" in clinical terms is the same as talking about Progesterone at the dose strengths 100mg, 200mg. The differences from the authorised generic are brand, manufacturer (Catalent / Virtus), excipients, tablet appearance and price — not the active molecule itself.
When Prometrium is used
Prometrium is approved for endometrial protection in postmenopausal women receiving estrogen, secondary amenorrhoea and selected ART indications.
Mechanisms compared
Because they share the same active ingredient, the mechanism is identical: Progesterone in Prometrium binds to progesterone receptors and modulates gene expression in reproductive and other tissues.
Brand or generic — which to choose?
For most patients, authorised generics of Progesterone are clinically equivalent substitutes for Prometrium and typically cost substantially less. The practical differences are manufacturer, excipients (rarely matters except in specific sensitivities), tablet appearance and price. The brand is preferred by some patients for personal reasons or insurance coverage; the generic is the default when cost matters.
Frequently asked questions
Is Prometrium the same as Progesterone? ▾
Clinically yes — Prometrium is the brand and Progesterone is its active ingredient. At equivalent doses (100mg, 200mg) they produce the same effect. The difference is brand, manufacturer (Catalent / Virtus) and price.
Is generic Progesterone as effective as Prometrium? ▾
Yes. Authorised generics of Progesterone must demonstrate bioequivalence to the brand. The active substance is the same; average effect is the same. Price is usually substantially lower.
Why does Prometrium cost more than generic Progesterone? ▾
The price difference reflects originator development costs, brand recognition and competition among generic manufacturers. The molecule is identical; the cost is not.
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.