Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone)
Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone)
Depo-Provera is a prescription injectable solution that contains the active component medroxyprogesterone acetate. This long-acting version of progestin aids in the prevention of pregnancy and is also used to treat specific health conditions as prescribed by a healthcare provider.Why Choose Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone)?
- Effective Birth Control: When used as indicated, has an efficacy rate of roughly 99% in preventing conception.
- Long-lasting: A single injection lasts three months, making it more convenient than daily birth control options.
- Estrogen-Free: Suitable for ladies who are unable to take estrogen.
- Versatile Use: It is used for a variety of purposes, including birth control, endometriosis, irregular menstruation, and hormonal imbalances.
How to Use Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone)?
- Consult a healthcare provider: Discuss your medical history, including current and previous health conditions, as well as any medications or supplements you are taking.
- Evaluate suitability: Ensure that Depo-Provera is appropriate for your needs and does not offer any health hazards, especially if you have a history of blood clots, unexplained vaginal bleeding, liver disease, breast cancer, or are pregnant.
- Understand the benefits and risks: Understand the potential side effects, which include menstruation changes, weight gain, and bone density loss over time.
- Initial Shot Timing: The initial injection should be administered within the first five days of your menstrual cycle to provide rapid protection against pregnancy.
- Follow-up Injections: Follow-up injections are necessary every 12 weeks (about every three months). It is vital to adhere to this schedule for continued effectiveness.
Important Safety Information about Depo-Provera
- Not for STD Protection: Depo-Provera does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STDs). Use condoms to avoid STDs.
- Missed Injection: If you miss your planned injection, notify your healthcare practitioner right away. You may need to use a different birth control technique until your next injection.
- Pregnancy Planning: If you intend to become pregnant soon, talk to your doctor about alternate contraception techniques, as fertility may not return immediately after discontinuing Depo-Provera use.
Fact Table
| Facts | Details |
| Generic Name | Medroxyprogesterone Acetate |
| Brand Name(s) | Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera 104 |
| Drug Class | Progestin, Hormonal Contraceptive |
| FDA Approval Date | October 29, 1992, for contraceptive use; other uses approved earlier or later depending on indication |
| Indications | - Contraception - Management of endometriosis-related pain - Part of hormone replacement therapy - Certain types of cancer treatment (e.g., kidney cancer, endometrial cancer) |
| Administration Route | Intramuscular injection (Depo-Provera); Subcutaneous injection (Depo-SubQ Provera 104) |
| Dosage Form | Injectable Suspension |
| Recommended Dosage | - Contraception: 150 mg every 3 months intramuscularly (Depo-Provera) - Endometriosis: Varies based on specific treatment plan |
| Mechanism of Action | Suppresses ovulation increases cervical mucus viscosity and induces endometrial thinning to prevent pregnancy |
| Common Side Effects | - Weight gain - Irregular menstrual periods or no periods at all Headaches - Abdominal pain or discomfort - Dizziness - Decreased libido |
| Contraindications | - Known or suspected pregnancy - Unexplained vaginal bleeding - Active thrombophlebitis or thromboembolic disorders - Liver disease- Known hypersensitivity to medroxyprogesterone acetate or any of its other components |
| Drug Interactions | - Aminoglutethimide (can decrease plasma concentrations) - Drugs inducing hepatic enzymes (e.g., rifampin, St. John's Wort) may decrease effectiveness |
| Boxed Warning | Prolonged use may result in significant loss of bone density, which is partly reversible upon discontinuation. This risk is greater with a longer duration of use and may not be completely reversible. |
| Pregnancy Category | X (Should not be used during pregnancy as it can cause harm to the fetus) |
| Storage | Store at 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F) |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.- Weight gain
- Irregular menstrual periods or no periods at all
- Headaches
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Dizziness
- Decreased libido
How Can You Buy Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone)?
You can order Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone) using these methods on our website:- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
