Generic Name : MEDROXYPROGESTERONE (INJECTION) ABSTRACT – Depo-Provera is a hormonal contraceptive that thickens the uterine walls by altering...
Depo provera
Depo-Provera is a hormonal contraceptive that thickens the uterine walls by altering cervical mucus and wall lining strength, disallowing sperms to enter into fertilize with an egg. It is a type of progesterone that prevents ovulation in women, acting as a contraception that prevents pregnancies from occurring. A separate form of this drug medication is used to reduce the pain that can be caused by endometriosis. Depo-Provera is classified under drug classes, ‘Contraceptives, ‘Hormones / Antineoplastics’ and ‘Progestins’.
DOSAGE –
-
- Depo-Provera is to be taken as directed by the doctors.
- This injection is administered through a muscle or under the skin.
- The injection is generally administered once every three months.
- General Adult Dosage available:
Injection – 400 – 1000mg (varies)
SIDE EFFECTS –
- Variations in menstrual cycle
- Small swellings
- Weight gain
- Headache
- Lumps forming at the site of injection
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
- Heavy / abnormal menstrual periods
- Severe pain in the lower stomach
- Swellings in various part of the body
- Pain or bleeding at the injection area
- Symptoms of depression
- Jaundice
- Signs of blood clotting
LONG-TERM SIDE EFFECTS –
- High risk for osteoporosis
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Acitretin
- Amprenavir
- Boceprevir
- Bosentan
- Dabrafenib
- Fosamprenavir
- Sugammadex
- Telaprevir
- Tranexamic acid
Depo-Provera has major interactions with 16 different drugs.
MODERATE DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Acarbose
- Acetohexamide
- Amobarbital
- Atazanavir
- Butalbital
- Cyclosporine
- Deferasirox
- Darunavir
- Efavirenz
- Etravirine
- Insulin
- Ketoconazole
- Mitotane
- Omacetaxine
- Ritonavir
Depo-Provera has moderate interactions with 155 different drugs.
PRECAUTIONS –
- Provide the doctor a detailed and accurate medical history prior to drug prescription. Notify especially in case of hypertensive blood pressure, irregular menstrual periods, risk for osteoporosis, abnormal mammogram results, kidney diseases, breast cancer, diabetes, asthma or migraine headaches.
- Do not consume Depo-Provera in case of unusual vaginal bleeding, liver diseases, breast cancer or a history of strokes or blood clot.
- Do not use this drug with steroid medication, seizure medicines or aminoglutethimide.
- Consult a doctor prior to nursing while on drug course.
- It is important to take the injections on time. In case of a missed dose, take a pregnancy test, ascertain negativity and then take the missed dose.
WARNINGS –
- Prolonged use of this drug may lead to osteoporosis. It is advised to consult the doctor as soon as the patient experiences weakness in the joints; as well as to cooperate with medical tests regularly.
- In case of severe breakthrough bleeding, the patient or an associate must report such an occurrence to the doctor immediately.
- This drug can alter the results of various medical tests. Report the use of this drug prior to medical tests.
- Although it is a contraceptive, this injection only prevents pregnancies and does not protect the user from Sexually Transmitted Illnesses. A different method of contraceptive is advised along with this drug, such as a condom.
- This medication is not to be used longer than 2 years.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.