Medroxyprogesterone depot
DEPO-PROVERA
What it isDepot progesterone-receptor agonist that suppresses ovulation; injectable contraception.
Why this oneIt provides private, adherence-forgiving contraception and often suppresses menstruation.
What limits itIrregular bleeding and weight gain are common; delayed fertility return and bone-density loss can end treatment.
FDA label
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| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prevention of pregnancy | Females of reproductive potential | 150 mg by deep IM injection (gluteal or deltoid) | 150 mg IM every 3 months (13 weeks) | Use for longer than 2 years not recommended unless other options inadequate |
Renal Undefined (effect of renal impairment unknown)
Hepatic Undefined (effect of hepatic impairment unknown; significant liver disease is a contraindication)
150 mg every 3 months (13 weeks); not recommended for use longer than 2 years unless other options inadequate
Instructions
- Shake vigorously just before use
- Give by deep IM injection using strict aseptic technique in gluteal or deltoid muscle, rotating sites
- First injection only during first 5 days of a normal menstrual period or within first 5 days postpartum
- In mothers who exclusively breastfeed, administer during or after the sixth postpartum week
- Dosage does not need adjustment for body weight; if interval >13 weeks, confirm not pregnant before dosing
Contraindications
- Active thrombophlebitis, or current or past history of thromboembolic disorders, or cerebral vascular disease
- Known or suspected malignancy of breast
- Significant liver disease
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
Cautions
- Loss of bone mineral density
- Thromboembolic disorders
- Cancer risks (breast, cervical)
- Meningioma - discontinue if diagnosed
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions
- Liver function disturbances - discontinue if jaundice/abnormal LFTs
- Bleeding irregularities
- Weight gain
- Decreased glucose tolerance - monitor diabetics
- Fluid retention
- Delayed return of fertility
Adverse reactions
- Menstrual irregularities (bleeding/spotting, amenorrhea)
- Weight gain
- Headache
- Abdominal pain/discomfort
- Nervousness
- Dizziness
- Decreased libido
Pregnancy No use for contraception in pregnancy; discontinue during pregnancy. Epidemiologic studies have not found an increased risk of birth defects with progestins.
Lactation Medroxyprogesterone acetate is detectable in milk; milk composition/quality/amount not adversely affected; in exclusive breastfeeders initiate during or after sixth postpartum week; no adverse effects noted in exposed infants.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Mechanism of action: Medroxyprogesterone depot ballicule
