Medroxyprogesterone, also known as Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, is a hormonal treatment used for various women's health conditions, especially related to menstrual and reproductive health. Medroxyprogesterone injection is available under brand names like Depo-Provera, Depo-Provera CI, or Depo-SubQ Provera 104.
What are the Uses of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Tablet?
Medroxyprogesterone tablet helps correct hormonal imbalances and provides relief from uncomfortable menstrual and menopause symptoms.
Reducing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia during estrogen replacement therapy
Managing symptoms of menopause when used with estrogen
Secondary Uses
May help reduce the risk of uterine cancer in postmenopausal women receiving estrogen
Sometimes used as a contraceptive (in Depo-Provera form)
How Does Medroxyprogesterone Tablet Work (Mechanism of Action)?
This medication works by mimicking the natural hormone progesterone, helping to balance the menstrual cycle and hormone levels.
It influences the hormonal signals between the brain and ovaries, reducing abnormal bleeding and restoring regular cycles. It also alters the uterine lining to prevent overgrowth when used with estrogen.
Medroxyprogesterone Dosage Instructions
Medroxyprogesterone medicine is available in various dosage forms to address different health needs, including hormonal regulation, menstrual disorders, and long-term contraception.
Dosage Form
Strengths
Administration
Common Use
Oral Tablets
2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg
Once daily for 5-10 days during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
Used for menstrual disorders, hormone replacement, and endometriosis
Injectable Suspension (IM)
150 mg/mL
Every 13 weeks, injected into the buttock or upper arm by a healthcare provider
Used for long-term contraception (Depo-Provera)
Subcutaneous Injection (SC)
104 mg/0.65 mL
Injected just under the skin every 12 to 14 weeks
Used for contraception; lower dose alternative to IM
Vaginal Gel or Cream (limited availability)
Varies by brand
As directed, usually applied locally in hormone therapy
Sometimes used in hormone therapy for endometrial protection
Withdrawal bleeding typically occurs 3-7 days after stopping the medication.
Proper dosage and timing are key to getting the most benefit from Medroxyprogesterone, as directed by your doctor.
What If You Miss a Dose of Medroxyprogesterone?
Missing one or two doses of medroxyprogesterone usually doesn't have a major effect on your body.
However, taking the medication consistently and on time is important for it to work properly.
Missing a dose can cause sudden chemical changes in your body, which may affect its effectiveness.
What Happens If You Overdose on Medroxyprogesterone?
Accidentally taking more than the prescribed medroxyprogesterone tablets can have harmful effects on your body's functions and may lead to a medical emergency.
Contact our gynecologists immediately if you experience any serious or worsening symptoms.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious or worsening symptoms.
Precautions for Medroxyprogesterone
Certain health conditions and situations require caution or avoidance when using this medication.
Before using Medroxyprogesterone, inform your doctor if you:
Are allergic to it or any other medications.
Have a history of blood clots, internal bleeding, liver disease, cancer, vaginal bleeding, or seizures.
Discuss potential risks with inactive ingredients in the medication.
Who Should Avoid Medroxyprogesterone?
For People with Blood Clots or Stroke:
Medroxyprogesterone increases the risk of blood clots. If you have a history of blood clots or stroke, consult your doctor before using this medication.
For People with Liver Problems:
Liver diseases can affect how medroxyprogesterone is processed in the body.
This may increase the drug's levels in your system, leading to a higher risk of side effects.
It's important to inform your doctor if you have liver problems or a history of liver disease.
Consulting your doctor ensures safe and effective use of the medication based on your liver health.
Pregnant Women:
Medroxyprogesterone should not be used during pregnancy.
If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Breastfeeding:
Medroxyprogesterone can pass into breast milk, which may affect a breastfeeding infant.
Consult your doctor before using this medication if you are breastfeeding.
You may need to either stop breastfeeding or adjust your medication based on your doctor's advice.
Alcohol or Food Interactions
While there are no specific food restrictions, alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or mood changes. Limit alcohol intake during treatment.
Possible Drug Interactions with Other Medications
Medroxyprogesterone may interact with other drugs, which could reduce effectiveness or increase side effects.
Possible Interactions Include
Blood thinners like warfarin
Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)
Herbal supplements like St. John's Wort
Other hormone therapies
Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Storage Guidelines for Medroxyprogesterone
Proper storage ensures the medicine remains effective and safe to use.
How Should Medroxyprogesterone be Stored?
Store medroxyprogesterone at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Keep the medication in a safe place, protected from heat, air, and light to avoid potential damage.
Ensure the medicine is stored out of children's reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
What Happens If Medroxyprogesterone Is Not Stored Properly?
Exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture may reduce the drug's effectiveness or cause it to degrade.
Medroxyprogesterone vs. Norethisterone
Medroxyprogesterone
Norethisterone
Medroxyprogesterone is a progestin (a form of progesterone) that aids in the regulation of ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) and menstrual cycles in women.
Norethisterone is a synthetic progestin. It works by imitating the effects of natural progesterone (female hormone). It helps to regulate the growth and shedding of the lining of the womb, thus treating menstrual irregularities.
Medroxyprogesterone is also used to treat menopause symptoms as part of a combined hormone replacement treatment with estrogens (e.g., hot flashes).
This medicine is used to prevent pregnancy. It is often referred to as the "mini-pill" because it does not contain any estrogens.
Some of the common side effects of Medroxyprogesterone are:
Change in menstrual period
Weight gain
Weakness
Tiredness
Irritability
Some of the common and serious side effects of Norethindrone are:
This drug is used to treat irregular uterine bleeding in women who are not pregnant or going through menopause, as well as to restore regular menstrual cycles in women who have not had them for many months (amenorrhea).
Starting on the 16th day of a 28-day oestrogen therapy course, you'll normally take 10mg every day for 10-12 days. Provera should start working 3 to 7 days after you start taking it. If you don't get your period after finishing a course of Provera, see your doctor if you're pregnant.
Yes, it can delay the return of normal fertility after stopping, especially when used as an injection. It's not a permanent effect in most cases.
The usual dose ranges from 2.5 mg to 10 mg per day, depending on the condition. Always follow your doctor's prescribed dose-do not exceed it without guidance.
The doctor will adjust the dose as needed. However, the dosage shouldn't be more than 10 mg per day. This is usually taken every day for 5 to 10 days.
No, Medroxyprogesterone tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Refrigeration is not necessary.
Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic form of progesterone. It has different properties and effects and is often used in birth control and hormone therapy.
Yes, it's used in some birth control methods like Depo-Provera injections. It prevents ovulation and alters the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy.
Yes, it can delay or stop periods, especially when used regularly or as part of hormone therapy. This is a common effect of the medication.
This medication is typically used in adult women. Its use in children or elderly individuals should be guided by a healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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