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

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) is an injectable contraceptive prescribed to women for long term prevention of pregnancy. The medication contains a form of progesterone which operates by preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries as well as changing the lining of the uterus and cervix to inhibit any fertilization and implantation of an egg. This form of contraception is effective for up to twelve weeks and prevents the need to remember to take a daily tablet. Your doctor may also prescribe this medication to treat other unlisted conditions.

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

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) should be used strictly according to the instructions of your doctor to ensure the most effective results and prevent any unnecessary complications. The typical dosage is one injection performed every three months or twelve weeks, but your individual directions will depend on your age, weight, and current health condition. The injection should be performed by your doctor or a fully trained health care professional, but you may be required to perform the injection yourself in some cases. In these situations you are suggested to observe the solution to make sure it is not cloudy or discoloured as this may indicate contamination, gently shake the syringe to mix its contents, attach the included needle in the syringe, and sterilize the needle and the injection site. To perform the injection, insert the needle into a muscle, such as the upper arm or buttocks, and slowly press the plunger to inject the solution. The injection should be administered within five days of menstruation to ensure the patient is not pregnant. Ask your doctor any questions you have about the medicine to prevent any unnecessary complications or misuse that may occur.

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

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) may cause side effects in some patients including:

• Mild headaches
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Upset stomach
• Unusual weight gain
• Acne
• Hot flashes or flushing of the skin
• Tenderness or swelling of the breast area
• Disrupted menstrual periods
• Reduced sex drive
• Skin colour changes or swelling of the injection site

Contact your doctor as soon as possible if any serious or worrying side effects occur such as severe headaches, fever, flu symptoms, numbness on one side of the body, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, swelling of the extremities, depression, severe nausea, darkened urine, discoloured stools, or jaundice. These conditions may require special alterations to your dosage, application frequency, or immediate medical attention in serious cases to prevent more complications from occurring.

Please Note

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) should not be used by men or by women who are pregnant, who may be pregnant, who are attempting to conceive, or who have breast cancer, liver cirrhosis, severe liver disease, porphyrias, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. Also inform your doctor if you have a history of migraines, a history of blood clots, cervical cancer, gallbladder cancer, a history of depression, a history of jaundice, osteoporosis, or a history of breast cancer. These conditions may cause unexpected complications requiring adjustments to your treatment.

Strictly use Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.