What is Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) used for?

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) is a hormonal injection which is used to prevent pregnancy. It may be effective for up to 3 months. The active ingredient in this injection is similar to a naturally produced hormone known as progesterone. It works by preventing the release of an egg, while also making it more difficult for a fertilized egg to attach itself to the wall of the womb, and making fertilization of an egg more difficult.

How should I use Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate)?

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) is injected intramuscularly (into a muscle), by a physician or other health care professional, in a physician's office or other health care facility. This injection is normally administered at the start of a menstrual period. It is normally considered to be effective 24 hours after it has been administered. Your physician may tell you that it is effective in preventing pregnancy for 13 weeks after it has been injected. You may be told to schedule your next medical appointment earlier than necessary, as if you are unable to attend your appointment to receive your injection, you may still have time to receive your next shot. Patients who are more than one week late for their injection should be aware that a pregnancy may occur if they have unprotected sex.

What are the side effects of Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate)?

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) can cause side effects, such as:

• Stomach cramps, nausea
• Changes in breast size or tenderness of the breasts
• Acne or loss of hair
• Pain at the injection site
• Changes in menstrual periods

It is essential to report any side effects to your physician.

Please Note

This medication may cause serious bone loss. Patients using this drug for a prolonged period of time are at a greater risk of this occurring. This medication should never be used for longer than 2 years, or if your physician tells you not to.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have any allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.