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Norethisterone enantate

London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine · FDA-approved active Small molecule ✓ Verified May 2026

Norethisterone enantate is a Progestin; hormonal contraceptive Small molecule drug developed by London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. It is currently FDA-approved for Contraception (long-acting injectable). Also known as: Noristerat.

Norethisterone enantate is a synthetic progestin that suppresses ovulation and alters the endometrium and cervical mucus to prevent pregnancy.

Norethisterone enantate is a small molecule used as a form of hormonal birth control to prevent pregnancy in women. It is administered via injection and may be used following childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion.

At a glance

Generic nameNorethisterone enantate
Also known asNoristerat
SponsorLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Drug classProgestin; hormonal contraceptive
TargetProgesterone receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaContraception; Reproductive Health
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

As a long-acting progestin ester, norethisterone enantate works primarily by inhibiting the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge needed for ovulation. It also thickens cervical mucus to impede sperm penetration and alters the uterine lining to prevent implantation. The enantate ester formulation provides sustained release, allowing for extended contraceptive coverage with infrequent dosing.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

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Frequently asked questions about Norethisterone enantate

What is Norethisterone enantate?

Norethisterone enantate is a Progestin; hormonal contraceptive drug developed by London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, indicated for Contraception (long-acting injectable).

How does Norethisterone enantate work?

Norethisterone enantate is a synthetic progestin that suppresses ovulation and alters the endometrium and cervical mucus to prevent pregnancy.

What is Norethisterone enantate used for?

Norethisterone enantate is indicated for Contraception (long-acting injectable).

Who makes Norethisterone enantate?

Norethisterone enantate is developed and marketed by London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (see full London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine pipeline at /company/london-school-of-hygiene-and-tropical-medicine).

Is Norethisterone enantate also known as anything else?

Norethisterone enantate is also known as Noristerat.

What drug class is Norethisterone enantate in?

Norethisterone enantate belongs to the Progestin; hormonal contraceptive class. See all Progestin; hormonal contraceptive drugs at /class/progestin-hormonal-contraceptive.

What development phase is Norethisterone enantate in?

Norethisterone enantate is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Norethisterone enantate?

Common side effects of Norethisterone enantate include Menstrual irregularities (amenorrhea, breakthrough bleeding), Headache, Breast tenderness, Weight changes, Mood changes.

What does Norethisterone enantate target?

Norethisterone enantate targets Progesterone receptor and is a Progestin; hormonal contraceptive.

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing