Nemestran

Quick links to important sections

Nemestran

Selected form

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Nemestran

Nemestran is a pharmaceutical preparation containing the active ingredient Gestrinone, a substance defined by its powerful hormonal activity. It is a single-ingredient product classified as a synthetic steroid, typically supplied in the form of oral capsules.


Quick Facts about Nemestran

Property Description
Active ingredient Gestrinone (INN)
Form Oral Capsule
Pharmacological Class Progestin, Antigonadotropin, Functional Antiestrogen
Origin / Type Synthetic steroid (19-nortestosterone derivative)
Availability Note Marketed primarily in Europe, Australia, and Latin America

What is the Medicine Nemestran? (Definition and Origin)

Nemestran is the trade name for the drug Gestrinone, a potent, chemically engineered hormonal compound used in prescription medicine. The active ingredient, Gestrinone, is a synthetic steroid derived from the 19-nortestosterone group. The original brand, Nemestran, has been primarily marketed in regions like Europe and Australia. It is delivered as a single-ingredient product in an oral capsule base, confirming that its primary therapeutic effects are due solely to Gestrinone's unique characteristics.

Nemestran's Pharmacological Class and Unique Type

Nemestran is primarily categorized within the progestin class of drugs, though its pharmacology is complex. It functions simultaneously as an antigonadotropin and a potent functional antiestrogen. Pharmacological studies support its action on multiple hormone receptors, including the progesterone, androgen, and estrogen receptors. This unique profile, which possesses inherent anti-progestogenic, anti-estrogenic, and mild androgenic properties, distinguishes it from simpler progestins, making it a highly specific tool for hormonal modulation.

General Purpose: Managing Estrogen-Dependent Conditions

The general therapeutic purpose of Nemestran is to provide targeted hormonal therapy aimed at achieving systemic balance. The drug achieves its goal by acting on hormonal pathways to reduce the overall biological effect of estrogen in the body, which can stimulate unwanted growth in certain tissues. This systemic dampening of estrogenic stimulation is the central benefit, allowing the medicine to manage various estrogen-dependent conditions by targeting the underlying hormonal imbalance.

What side effects are possible with Nemestran?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information for Nemestran

This section summarizes the officially documented adverse reactions and safety constraints for Nemestran, as defined in government regulatory labeling (e.g., FDA, EMA).

Adverse Reaction Scope

Adverse reactions are classified by frequency and grouped by the body system affected (System-Organ Class or SOC):

Frequency Category Examples of Adverse Reactions (SOC)
Very Common (ge 1/10) Headache, Nausea, Vomiting
Common (ge 1/100 to <1/10) Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Fatigue, Insomnia, Amenorrhea (Reproductive System), Hot flushes
Rare (ge 1/10,000 to <1/1,000) Serious blood dyscrasias, Acute Pancreatitis (Gastrointestinal/Hepatobiliary)
Very Rare (<1/10,000) Anaphylactic shock, Hepatic failure

Serious Adverse Reactions: The regulatory documents specifically list rare but clinically significant events that warrant urgent attention, including Hepatic Failure, Anaphylactic Shock, and rare Serious Blood Dyscrasias.

Safety-Related Restrictions and Limitations

  • Population Restrictions: Nemestran is subject to safety restrictions or contraindications in specific groups, including patients with severe hepatic (liver) impairment or severe renal (kidney) impairment. Use during pregnancy and lactation is generally restricted due to potential harm.
  • Time-Related Patterns: Gastrointestinal effects and flu-like symptoms are often most prominent at the start of treatment and may subside with continued use, as stated in the label.
  • Monitoring Requirements: Official documents specify the need for regular assessment of liver function, renal function, and haematological parameters (e.g., blood counts) during treatment.
  • Mandatory Discontinuation: The label requires prompt cessation of Nemestran if signs of severe reactions, such as Acute Intolerance Syndrome or Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), are suspected.

This safety information explicitly structures the drug's risk profile by detailing the likelihood and severity of known adverse events, outlining the conditions that limit its use, and defining the required safety checks.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help — Official Regulatory Information for Nemestran

The information below is derived strictly from the official overdose sections of government regulatory documents concerning Gestrinone (Nemestran).

Overdose scope

Feature Official Regulatory Statement
Documented overdose presentations Overdosage effects are typically characterized by nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding (in females).
Physiological systems affected Gastrointestinal system and Reproductive system.
Dose-related factors Hospital monitoring may be required based on the estimated ingested dose.
Population-specific overdose notes None explicitly documented in official regulatory sources concerning specific overdose manifestations or management protocols.
Emergency-response statements Management of overdose should be symptomatic and supportive.
When immediate medical help is required Seek medical advice immediately if an overdose is suspected. Contact emergency services if severe symptoms are present.

Overdose classifications (high-level)

Classification Type Official Regulatory Statement
Severity classification The overdose is not expected to be life-threatening.
Regulatory basis Based on documented prescribing information (e.g., Summary of Product Characteristics, Prescribing Information).
Overdose-context constraints No specific antidote is known for Gestrinone.

Resulting overdose structure

Official overdose statements:

  • Overdosage is generally characterized by nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.
  • The regulatory assessment states that an overdose is not expected to be life-threatening.
  • Management of overdosage must be symptomatic and supportive, as no specific antidote is known.
  • Immediate action required is to seek medical advice upon suspicion of overdose.
  • Hospital monitoring may be necessary, depending on the dose and presenting symptoms.

Connection to the overall overdose profile (2–4 sentences): Official regulatory documents define the Nemestran overdose profile by detailing the expected clinical signs of nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. The profile explicitly states that life-threatening outcomes are not anticipated, which guides the mandated symptomatic and supportive management approach. The requirement to seek medical advice immediately serves as the regulatory-defined trigger for professional intervention.

Therapeutic Uses of Nemestran

Nemestran is commonly used in clinical settings that involve estrogen-dependent gynecological disorders. Its use includes applications for Endometriosis. It is considered relevant for conditions presenting with significant symptomatic burden, including Endometriosis, Adenomyosis, and Uterine Fibroids (Miomatosis). The medication may assist with managing the abnormal tissue growth in conditions that are often characterized as moderate to severe.


Supportive Management and Key Benefits

Nemestran is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, primarily for easing symptoms related to physical discomfort that interfere with daily functioning. This includes Chronic Pelvic Pain, Dysmenorrhea (painful periods), and Deep Dyspareunia in situations where patients experience discomfort. A key therapeutic benefit is assisting with managing excessive menstrual volume (Hypermenorrhea). The treatment may assist with managing symptoms related to abnormal menstrual flow, including heavy bleeding, and contributes to easing the overall symptom load related to heavy bleeding. This provides supportive relief that helps ease the overall symptom burden, contributing to improved day-to-day comfort and stability during symptomatic phases.

Quick Fact: Supportive Relief for Symptoms Description
Pain Support for chronic pelvic pain and symptoms related to physical discomfort during periods.
Bleeding Assistance with symptoms of abnormal menstrual flow.
Tissue Growth May support the management of abnormal estrogen-sensitive tissue.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Nemestran — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility for Nemestran is restricted to adult females of reproductive potential and is strictly governed by a detailed set of regulatory contraindications.


Eligibility Classification Official Regulatory Status
Populations Contraindicated Pregnant Females; Lactating Females; Children; Patients with known Hypersensitivity to the drug.
Age-Related Rules Use is Contraindicated in children. Use in the Geriatric Population is typically not established or documented.
Physiological Status Contraindicated in patients with Severe Cardiac Disease, Chronic Kidney Disease, or Active Liver Disease (including liver tumors).

Eligibility-Related Restrictions

Official labeling prohibits Nemestran use in patients with specific hormonal and vascular histories or conditions:

  • Hormone-Sensitive Malignancy: Contraindicated in patients with known or suspected Estrogen- or Progestin-Sensitive Malignancy, such as Breast Cancer.
  • Vascular Risk: Contraindicated for patients with active Arterial or Venous Thromboembolism or a high risk of these conditions.
  • History: Contraindicated for patients who experienced Metabolic and/or Vascular Disorders during previous hormonal therapy or who have Undiagnosed Abnormal Uterine Bleeding.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Nemestran (Gestrinone) interacts with other medicinal products through documented regulatory pathways, primarily involving changes to its concentration in the body and alterations to certain risk profiles. The official interaction profile defines these as pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions.

Interaction Type (Regulatory Focus) Official Outcome
Exposure Modification (Decrease) Reduced serum concentration of Nemestran.
Exposure Modification (Increase) Elevated plasma concentration of Nemestran.
Pharmacodynamic Risk Increased risk or severity of adverse effects.

Official Interaction Statements

Certain co-administered medicines classified as enzyme inducers, such as Apalutamide, Aprepitant, and Asunaprevir, are documented to result in a decreased serum concentration of Gestrinone. This pharmacokinetic effect is also associated with compounds like Oxcarbazepine and Acetaminophen, which may enhance the metabolism of Nemestran. Conversely, co-administration with inhibitors, including Abametapir and Atazanavir, is documented to result in an increased plasma concentration of Gestrinone.

Nemestran also has documented pharmacodynamic interactions with antithrombotic agents, such as Abciximab and Alteplase, where co-administration may result in an increased risk or severity of adverse events, as detailed in official labeling. No mandatory timing separation rules or contraindicated drug-drug combinations are explicitly detailed in regulatory documents.


The regulatory interaction profile for Nemestran is defined predominantly by pharmacokinetic interactions that specifically result in the modification of systemic exposure. The secondary category of documented interactions is pharmacodynamic, where co-administration results in an elevated risk profile for adverse events with agents such as antithrombotics, as detailed in regulatory documents.

Mechanism of Action

Androgen Receptor Antagonism and Gene Transcription

Nemestran functions as a non-steroidal antagonist by binding to the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of the Androgen Receptor (AR). This molecular interaction prevents the AR from binding to natural androgens, blocking receptor activation. The consequence of this blockade is a cellular cascade where the AR cannot undergo the conformational change necessary for its translocation into the cell nucleus. The non-translocated AR is thus unable to bind to Androgen Response Elements (AREs) on DNA. This action suppresses the transcription of specific genes that regulate cell proliferation and survival in AR-expressing tissues. The resulting cellular effects include the inhibition of cell proliferation and the promotion of apoptosis (programmed cell death).

Systemic Endocrine Modulation

Beyond its direct cellular activity, Nemestran's peripheral AR blockade triggers a negative feedback mechanism on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) axis. This results in the pituitary increasing its release of Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which leads to elevated circulating levels of LH and often a corresponding increase in endogenous androgens.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Nemestran is Used (Administration Overview)

The use of Nemestran (Gestrinone) follows a specific, non-daily schedule, establishing a fixed, intermittent protocol for its administration.

Administration Scope

The standard strength for the oral capsule is 2.5 mg, and this is the singular oral route of administration approved for the product. The administration conditions are focused on weekly timing rather than meal relation, which is not typically specified in the core product labeling. The standard adult dose applies, as no specific adjustments are documented for older adult or pediatric patients.

Instruction Entity Description
Route of administration: Oral capsule only (2.5 mg dose).
Dosing schedule (Adult): 2.5 mg per dose.
Frequency pattern: Twice weekly (biweekly).
Missed-dose rules: The 2.5 mg capsule should be taken immediately upon remembering the missed administration.

Resulting Procedural Structure

The treatment course follows a precise chronological structure defined by the patient's menstrual cycle and a limited duration.

Step sequence:

  • Initiate the treatment on the first day of the menstrual cycle (Day 1).
  • Take the first dose of 2.5 mg, then take the second dose three days later in the same week.
  • Repeat the 2.5 mg dose on the same two designated days each week for the entire course.
  • The conventional duration of a treatment course is six months.

This protocol, which emphasizes a precise start date and fixed biweekly schedule, defines the standardized approach for using Nemestran.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Nemestran: Recent Clinical Evidence

Evidence for Use in Endometriosis and Associated Pain

Nemestran was observed in studies examining endometriosis, which is a condition characterized by functional limitations and episodic manifestations. The research primarily relied on short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), including studies comparing Nemestran to either a placebo or to other hormonal treatments available at the time. Researchers examined outcomes related to physical discomfort, specifically using standardized scales to measure data related to chronic pelvic pain, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), and pain during intercourse. They also assessed the size and volume of endometriotic lesions. Research highlights findings describing measured outcomes in the studies, which included data related to perceived discomfort and the morphological response. These reports mainly focused on the active treatment phase, typically lasting for 6 months.


Evidence for Use in Uterine Fibroids and Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Nemestran was observed in studies examining uterine fibroids (leiomyomata) and the condition's outcomes related to heavy menstrual bleeding (hypermenorrhea). The evidence base for this clinical situation primarily relied on exploratory clinical trials and smaller studies. The research here examined outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance by monitoring the size of the fibroids and studying measurements related to menstrual flow volume. The available data for this indication are often derived from secondary findings, and certainty remains low.


Limitations and Research Gaps

The pivotal research for Nemestran primarily focused on short-term time intervals, typically covering an active treatment period of approximately 6 months. A key constraint is that the small sample sizes in many foundational clinical trials, and the follow-up durations were limited. The long-term effects are not fully established, and there is limited information regarding symptom recurrence. Data for certain populations, such as adolescents or those with specific comorbidities, remain insufficient, and the comparative evidence is lacking against other modern treatments available today, as the original research was evaluated in comparison against older agents.

Key Studies & References

  1. Safety Profile of Gestrinone: A Systematic Review

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Nemestran (FAQ)


Q: What is the generic name of Nemestran, especially since it is not available in the United States?

A: The generic name of the active ingredient in Nemestran is Gestrinone. Official marketing information indicates the product is not available for prescription in the United States. Instead, it is primarily marketed and available for prescription in regions including Europe, Australia, and Latin America.

Q: Where is Nemestran currently approved for medical use outside of the United States?

A: The product is currently marketed and available for prescription use primarily in regions including Europe, Australia, and Latin America. This information is contained in the drug's official marketing details.

Q: How does Nemestran differ from other hormonal medications used to treat endometriosis?

A: Official pharmacological descriptions classify Nemestran as a synthetic steroid with a unique hormonal profile. It is officially categorized as a synthetic steroid that is distinguished by functioning simultaneously as an anti-gonadotropin and a functional anti-estrogen.

Q: What is the role of Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) in how Nemestran works?

A: Pharmacological studies describe Nemestran's mechanism as involving a reduction in the binding capacity of Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG).

Q: Why is Nemestran's active ingredient banned by international sports organizations?

A: The active ingredient in Nemestran is listed by international sports organizations as a prohibited substance. Its classification is specifically under the category of anabolic steroids.

Q: Does official information mention any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided while taking Nemestran?

A: According to official administration guidelines, there is generally no specific time separation required from meals. The prescribing information does not typically specify any required food restrictions while taking Nemestran.

Q: Is it possible for Nemestran to be taken via a vaginal route instead of by mouth?

A: According to official administration guidelines, the only approved and documented route of administration for Nemestran is the oral capsule. Alternative routes, such as the vaginal route, are not approved for this product.

Q: Does Nemestran require special handling or storage conditions, such as refrigeration?

A: Official instructions for Nemestran require the medicine to be kept in a cool, dry place and stored below the maximum temperature specified on the packaging. The medication must also be protected from light and moisture, and refrigeration is generally not specified.

Q: What is the reported half-life of Nemestran's active ingredient in the body?

A: The reported half-life is a pharmacokinetic measurement defined in the official prescribing information, reflecting the time it takes for the drug's concentration in the body to decrease by half.

Q: What is the known risk of Nemestran affecting bone health or bone mineral density over time?

A: Regulatory documents describe research indicating that Nemestran treatment has been associated with the conservation or maintenance of bone mineral density.

Q: Is there available long-term data on the efficacy and safety of Nemestran beyond a six-month treatment period?

A: Official regulatory documents define the need for additional research, noting that the long-term effects are not fully established and that follow-up durations in foundational clinical trials were limited.

Q: What do official reports say about the success rate of Nemestran in treating endometriosis?

A: Clinical research reports outcomes related to measured improvement in painful symptoms and the morphological response of lesions in women with endometriosis. Regulatory summaries of studies tend to focus on these measured outcomes rather than providing a single, simple 'success rate' percentage.

Q: Can Nemestran be used to treat both endometriosis and uterine fibroids at the same time?

A: The medicine is observed in clinical studies for use in both endometriosis and uterine fibroids. Both conditions are listed as indications where the drug has been investigated and used.

Q: Are the potential side effects like acne and oily skin permanent after stopping Nemestran?

A: The drug has mild androgenic (masculinizing) properties, and official documentation lists potential long-term changes, such as specific vocal changes. The full patient information leaflet contains a complete description of these risks.

Q: What do official documents say about weight gain as a common side effect of Nemestran?

A: Official regulatory labeling for Nemestran commonly describes weight gain as an expected or common adverse reaction. This information is available in the adverse effects section of the official product information.

Q: How soon after starting Nemestran might someone typically notice side effects?

A: Official documents indicate that common adverse reactions, specifically gastrointestinal effects and flu-like symptoms, are often most prominent at the start of treatment. These types of reactions may subside with continued use, as stated in the label.

Q: What generally happens to the menstrual cycle after treatment with Nemestran is stopped?

A: Official documentation generally describes the expectation that the menstrual cycle and gonadal activity should typically return to normal following the completion of the treatment course.

How should Nemestran be stored and disposed of?

Nemestran (Gestrinone) must be stored under specific conditions to maintain product stability and protect against unauthorized access. The product should be kept in a cool, dry place and stored below the maximum temperature specified on the packaging, as the active ingredient is sensitive to heat. It must be protected from both light and moisture and remain in its original container until use.

Mandatory Protection and Disposal

Constraint Requirement
Child Protection Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
Disposal Rule Dispose of unused or expired medicine through an approved pharmaceutical waste collection program or in accordance with local regulations.
Environmental Ban Do not dispose of into wastewater or household trash to prevent the release of the potent hormonal compound into the environment.

These instructions define the mandatory environmental constraints and strict handling procedures required for this type of medication, ensuring both public safety and product integrity.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Nemestran found in:

A-Z Index: