home > drugs a-z list > depo-subq provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) drug center > depo-subq provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) drug - patient how to take

In this Article

• What is medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• What are the possible side effects of medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• What is the most important information I should know about medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• How should I use medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• What happens if I overdose (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• What should I avoid while using medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• What other drugs will affect medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?

This medication may cause bone loss (osteoporosis) especially when used over long periods of time. Bone loss may not be reversible. Do not use this medication for longer than 2 years. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk of bone loss.

Medroxyprogesterone can cause birth defects. Do not use if this medication you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to medroxyprogesterone, or if you have:

• abnormal vaginal bleeding;
• breast cancer;
• liver disease; or
• a history of a stroke or blood clot.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use medroxyprogesterone.

• congestive heart failure;
• diabetes;
• seizures or epilepsy; or
• a history of depression.

Medroxyprogesterone passes into breast milk, but it is not known whether this could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera)?

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.