Medroxyprogesterone acetate
Also sold as: Depo-Provera, Provera, Sayana Press
Prescription neededFamily planning and hormones
Comes as:InjectionTablet
Usual adult dose
Contraceptive injection: 150 mg into the muscle every 3 months (12 weeks), given by a health worker. Tablets for period problems: dose is set by your doctor (often 5 to 10 mg a day for 5 to 10 days).
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- irregular bleeding or no periods
- weight gain
- headache
- mood changes
- delay of fertility for some months after stopping
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe headache
- heavy bleeding
- pain or swelling in one leg
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Known or suspected pregnancy
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Breast cancer or serious liver disease
- Osteoporosis or high risk of weak bones (use with caution, especially with long use)
Interactions
No important interactions are listed in our database. Still tell your doctor or pharmacist everything you take.