Drug Notebook

FDA Alerts

    Bone Mineral Density
  • Use of parenteral medroxyprogesterone preparations (i.e., Depo-Provera® Contraceptive, depo-subQ provera 104®, or medroxyprogesterone acetate contraceptive injection) may result in loss of bone mineral density (BMD). Bone loss is greater with increasing duration of therapy and may not be completely reversible.
  • Not known whether use of these parenteral preparations in young women (e.g., during adolescence, early adulthood) will reduce peak bone mass and increase risk of osteoporotic fractures later in life. Loss of BMD is of particular concern during adolescence and early adulthood, a critical period of bone accretion.
  • Use parenteral medroxyprogesterone for long-term contraception (e.g., >2 years) only if other contraceptive methods are inadequate.

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medroxyPROGESTERone
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(me DROX ee proe JESS te rone)

How should I use medroxyprogesterone?

Medroxyprogesterone is given as an injection into a muscle. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be shown how to inject your medicine at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes.

Medroxyprogesterone may be given once per week or once every 3 months, depending on why you are using the medication. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

You may have breakthrough bleeding while using medroxyprogesterone. Tell your doctor if this bleeding continues or is very heavy.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using medroxyprogesterone.

Your doctor will need to see you on a regular basis while you are using this medication. Do not miss any appointments.

If you store this medication at home, keep it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of medroxyprogesterone is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while using medroxyprogesterone?

This medication will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases--including HIV and AIDS. Using a condom is the only way to protect yourself from these diseases.

What are the possible side effects of medroxyprogesterone?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;

  • sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;

  • fever;

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

  • swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet; or

  • symptoms of depression (sleep problems, weakness, mood changes).

Less serious side effects may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect medroxyprogesterone?

Before using medroxyprogesterone, tell your doctor if you are also using aminoglutethimide (Cytadren).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with medroxyprogesterone. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about medroxyprogesterone.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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