Question 94
Hello Doctor,
I wonder why so many women have a problem with the various kinds of progesterone. It seems everywhere you go someone is trying to sell you some progesterone cream saying it will cure all symptoms. Luckily I have had no problem with prometrium. I was told however the doses that are prescribed are too high for the normal women. I take 200 mgs 12 days a month so far doesn't bother me but sure does make me very sleepy but take it at night before bed on an empty tummy. I would also like to know what you think of this Dr. Lee?
REPLY:
I do not think that 200 mg of Prometrium is too much for most women to take for 12 days a month and this is the dose I usually suggest. The reason that you get sleepy is that progestins are central nervous system depressants.
I do not believe that Dr. Lee's theories are credible and they do not reflect the true nature of the physiology of the peri, or post menopausal woman. I have heard Dr Lee speak on the radio and have read his book. He can be very convincing, but I do not think it is in any woman's best interests to follow his recommendations. A quote from an unnamed source that I would agree with:
"Scratch every proponent of "estrogen dominance", and you find someone who is making or selling a progesterone cream, writing or speaking for money about it, or has a co-marketing arrangement with a manufacturer or seller of the cream or someone who has heard about it from one of the above."
I would also suggest that many of those who give credence to his theories and use this product more closely resemble members of a religious order than consumers of an over-the-counter product.