Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Medroxyprogesterone, administered through intramuscular (into a muscle) and subcutaneous (under the skin) injections, serves as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy. Belonging to the class of medications known as progestins, medroxyprogesterone operates by inhibiting ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovaries). It also thins the uterine lining, preventing pregnancy in all women and impeding the spread of uterine tissue to other body parts in those with endometriosis.
Uses and Dosage
Medroxyprogesterone intramuscular injection is administered as a liquid suspension into the buttocks or upper arm. Typically, healthcare providers administer this injection once every 3 months (13 weeks) in an office or clinic setting.
Medroxyprogesterone subcutaneous injection, also in the form of a suspension, is injected just beneath the skin. Healthcare providers typically administer this injection once every 12 to 14 weeks in an office or clinic.
You must receive the initial medroxyprogesterone subcutaneous or intramuscular injection only when there is certainty that you are not pregnant. Consequently, the first injection can only be given during the initial 5 days of a regular menstrual period, within the first 5 days after childbirth if you do not plan to breastfeed, or during the sixth week after childbirth if breastfeeding is planned.
If transitioning from a different method of birth control to medroxyprogesterone injection, your doctor will specify the appropriate timing for your first injection.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- weight gain
- weakness
- tiredness
- nervousness
- irritability
- depression
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- hot flashes
- breast pain, swelling, or tenderness
- stomach cramps or bloating
- leg cramps
- back or joint pain
- acne
- loss of hair on scalp
- swelling, redness, irritation, burning, or itching of the vagina
- white vaginal discharge
- changes in sexual desire
- cold or flu symptoms
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- sudden shortness of breath
- sudden sharp or crushing chest pain
- coughing up blood
- severe headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- dizziness or faintness
- change or loss of vision
- double vision
- bulging eyes
- difficulty speaking
- weakness or numbness in an arm or leg
- seizure
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- extreme tiredness
- pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or tenderness in one leg only
- menstrual bleeding that is heavier or lasts longer than normal
- severe pain or tenderness just below the waist
- rash
- hives
Caution
- Before taking medroxyprogesterone, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as some Canadian brands of this product may contain inactive ingredients, such as soybean, which could trigger allergic reactions or other complications. It’s worth noting that individuals allergic to peanuts may also have allergies to soy.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially regarding blood clots, bleeding in the brain, liver disease, breast or other female organ cancer, unexplained vaginal bleeding, a history of missed abortion, family medical history), kidney disease, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, migraine headaches, asthma, high blood cholesterol/fat levels, depression, diabetes, strokes, and smoking.
- This medication may induce dizziness or drowsiness. Consuming alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Medroxyprogesterone may cause blotchy, dark areas on the face and skin (melasma), and sunlight can exacerbate this effect.
- Restrict your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen along with protective clothing when outdoors.
- Avoid using this medication during pregnancy, and promptly notify your doctor if you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
- This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Depo Provera Injection is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Depo Provera Injection vial:
- 150 mg/ml
FAQ
How long can you stay on the Depo Provera Injection?
Use for longer than 2 years is not recommended due to the impact of long-term treatment on bone mineral density.
Does Depo Provera cause weight gain?
The Depo shot causes weight gain in some people while they’re using it. Some people gain a lot of weight on the shot. But birth control shot weight gain doesn’t happen to everyone, and many people use the shot without gaining weight.
Resources
- https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/committees/marc/reports/173-Medroxyprogesterone%20and%20withdrawal%20syndrome.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8674/medroxyprogesterone-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/depo-provera/about/pac-20392204#:~:text=Depo%2DProvera%20is%20a%20well,ovaries%20from%20releasing%20an%20egg
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604039.html#:~:text=Medroxyprogesterone%20intramuscular%20injection%20comes%20as,injected%20just%20under%20the%20skin
- https://www.drugs.com/depo-provera.html
