Indications
Provera generically known as medroxyprogesterone, is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It is a prescription medication indicated to treat abnormal menstruation or irregular vaginal bleeding. The active ingredient in Provera is Medroxyprogesterone. Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone and works by regulating hormones in the body.
Medroxyprogesterone is primarily indicated to treat abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalances and secondary amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual periods). It may also be used to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia (a thickening of the uterine lining) in women taking estrogen replacement therapy.
Uses and Dosage
Provera is available in tablet form and should be taken orally as directed by a healthcare professional. When used in combination with estrogen for hormone replacement therapy, take Medroxyprogesterone once daily for a prescribed number of days each month as instructed. If being used to treat stopped menstrual periods (amenorrhea) and abnormal bleeding from the uterus, take Medroxyprogesterone once daily for 5-10 days during the second half of the planned menstrual cycle or as advised by your healthcare provider. After stopping the medication, withdrawal bleeding typically happens within 3-7 days.
The recommended dosages of Provera vary depending on the specific condition being treated.
- For dysfunctional (an ovulatory) uterine bleeding, adults may take 2.5 - 10 mg daily for 5-10 days starting on the assumed or calculated 16th-21st day of the cycle.
- For inducing an optimum secretory transformation of an endometrium, the recommended dosage typically involves taking a 5 or 10 mg daily dose for 5-10 days.
Side Effect
Serious Side Effects of Provera (Medroxyprogesterone):
- Breast lump
- Confusion
- memory problems
- Heart attack symptoms
- Chest pain or pressure
- Nausea
- Pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder
- Sweating
- Liver problems
- Clay-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Fever
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness
- Upper stomach pain
- Signs of a blood clot
- Coughing up blood
- Feeling short of breath
- Pain or warmth in one or both legs
- Stabbing chest pain
- Sudden vision loss
- Signs of a stroke
- Problems with vision or balance
- Slurred speech
- Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body)
- Sudden severe headache
- Symptoms of depression
- Sleep problems
- Weakness
- Tired feeling
- Mood changes
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
Common Side Effects of Provera (Medroxyprogesterone):
- Acne
- Breasts that are tender or produce a liquid
- Changes in menstrual flow
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Drowsiness
- Growth of hair on face
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Loss of hair on scalp
- Upset stomach
- Weight gain or loss
Form and Strength
Provera (Medroxyprogesterone) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Provera: Tablet
- 2.5 mg
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Medroxyprogesterone: Tablet
- 2.5 mg
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Caution
- Women who use Provera along with estrogen have an increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke.
- Provera is not recommended for use in women who have a history of breast cancer, as it may increase the risk of recurrence.
- Women with a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack should use Medroxyprogesterone with caution.
- Provera may cause liver dysfunction, which can be serious in some cases.
- Medroxyprogesterone should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women except under unusual circumstances.
- Women with a history of certain medical conditions such as liver disease, kidney disease, gallbladder disease, or a history of depression may need to be monitored more closely while taking Provera.
- Prolonged use of Provera (Medroxyprogesterone) may increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does medroxyprogesterone start period?
Medroxyprogesterone is also used to bring on a normal menstrual cycle in women who menstruated normally in the past but have not menstruated for at least 6 months and who are not pregnant or undergoing menopause (change of life).
How many days do you bleed after taking medroxyprogesterone?
Sometimes, women experience withdrawal bleeding 3-7 days after the medication is stopped.
How many days do I have to take medroxyprogesterone?
It is usually taken every day for 5 to 10 days.
What should I avoid while taking medroxyprogesterone?
You should not use medroxyprogesterone if you are pregnant, or if you have liver disease, a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer, a history of stroke or blood clot, or abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been checked by a doctor.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682470.html
- https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/medroxyprogesterone
- https://www.drugs.com/medroxyprogesterone.html#faq
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/medroxyprogesterone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20146771?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8674/medroxyprogesterone-oral/details
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