What Is Crinone?

Crinone is a prescription vaginal gel containing micronized progesterone, a naturally occurring female hormone essential for establishing and maintaining pregnancy. It is FDA-approved for two main uses: progesterone supplementation or replacement as part of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment for infertile women with progesterone deficiency (Crinone 8%), and for the treatment of secondary amenorrhea (Crinone 4%). Crinone is also commonly used off-label for luteal phase support in frozen embryo transfer cycles, prevention of recurrent miscarriage, and endometrial preparation for donor egg recipients.

How does Crinone work?

Crinone delivers micronized progesterone directly to the uterine lining through a bioadhesive vaginal gel. Once applied, the progesterone binds to progesterone receptors in the endometrium, transforming the uterine lining from a proliferative state into a secretory state — which is essential for embryo implantation and early pregnancy maintenance. The vaginal route allows for high local concentrations in the uterus while minimizing systemic side effects. Crinone also suppresses uterine contractility and supports the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

What doses are available for Crinone?

• Crinone 4% vaginal gel — 45 mg of progesterone per applicator, typically used for secondary amenorrhea
• Crinone 8% vaginal gel — 90 mg of progesterone per applicator, used for luteal phase support in assisted reproductive technology (ART) and progesterone replacement

How hard is it to find Crinone in stock?

Crinone scores a 65 out of 100 on our findability scale, meaning it can be intermittently difficult to locate. As a brand-name vaginal progesterone gel used primarily in fertility treatments, Crinone is a niche medication carried mainly by specialty and IVF pharmacies rather than every retail location. While it is not currently listed on the FDA Drug Shortage database, individual pharmacies may not stock it routinely. If your local pharmacy doesn't have it, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy near you that has Crinone in stock.

Who Can Prescribe Crinone?

Crinone is most commonly prescribed by Reproductive Endocrinologists (REI specialists) as part of IVF and other fertility treatments. Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) also prescribe it for secondary amenorrhea and luteal phase support. In some cases, Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists may prescribe Crinone for pregnancy maintenance. General practitioners and family medicine doctors can technically prescribe it, though this is less common. Telehealth consultations are available for Crinone prescriptions in many states.

Is Crinone a controlled substance?

No, Crinone is not a controlled substance. It does not have a DEA schedule designation. However, it is a prescription-only medication, meaning you need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain it. Because it contains bioidentical progesterone (not a synthetic steroid), it does not carry the abuse potential associated with controlled substances.

Common Side Effects of Crinone

• Bloating and abdominal cramps
• Headache and dizziness
• Drowsiness and fatigue
• Breast tenderness or swelling
• Nausea, constipation, or diarrhea
• Vaginal discharge or gel residue buildup
• Vaginal burning or itching
• Joint or muscle pain
• Mood changes
• Pain during intercourse

Most side effects are mild and related to the progesterone itself. Vaginal gel residue buildup is unique to Crinone and can be managed by periodic gentle cleaning as directed by your doctor. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience sudden severe headache, chest pain, vision changes, signs of jaundice, or unusual vaginal bleeding.

Alternative Medications to Crinone

• Endometrin (Progesterone vaginal insert, 100 mg) — FDA-approved vaginal progesterone insert for luteal phase support in ART, dosed 2–3 times daily with less gel buildup
• Prometrium (Oral micronized progesterone, 100 mg and 200 mg capsules) — FDA-approved for secondary amenorrhea and endometrial hyperplasia prevention, sometimes used vaginally off-label
• Progesterone in Oil (PIO) Injections (50 mg/mL intramuscular) — Widely used for IVF luteal phase support, very effective but requires daily painful injections
• Compounded Progesterone Suppositories — Custom-made vaginal suppositories from compounding pharmacies, not FDA-approved but commonly used when commercial products are unavailable or unaffordable

Drug Interactions with Crinone

• Other vaginal products — Avoid using any other vaginal medications, lubricants, or products within 6 hours before or after Crinone application, as they may interfere with gel absorption
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (Ketoconazole, Erythromycin) — May increase progesterone levels; inform your doctor if you take these medications
• CYP3A4 inducers (Rifampin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) — May decrease progesterone levels and reduce Crinone's effectiveness
• Vaginal antifungals — Yeast treatments may interfere with gel absorption; consult your physician before using together
• Other progestins — Avoid concomitant use with other progesterone-containing products unless directed by your doctor

No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted with Crinone. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Final Thoughts on Crinone

Crinone is a trusted and widely used vaginal progesterone gel that plays a critical role in fertility treatments and hormone management. While it can sometimes be difficult to find at standard retail pharmacies due to its niche use, specialty and IVF pharmacies typically stock it. Cash prices can be steep at $450–$700 per box without insurance, but discount programs through specialty pharmacies can bring the cost down to as low as $65–$100. If you're struggling to find Crinone in stock, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy near you that has it available today.