In this Article

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking medroxyprogesterone (Provera)?

FDA pregnancy category X. 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.

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

• abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been diagnosed;
• a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer;
• liver disease; or
• a history of stroke or blood clot.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take medroxyprogesterone:

• heart disease, congestive heart failure, recent stroke or heart attack
• high blood pressure;
• high cholesterol or triglycerides;
• low levels of calcium in your blood;
• severe pelvic pain;
• recent miscarriage or abortion;
• epilepsy;
• asthma;
• migraine headaches;
• a thyroid disorder;
• kidney disease,
• diabetes; or
• lupus.

Medroxyprogesterone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Medroxyprogesterone will not prevent heart disease, breast cancer, or dementia, and may actually increase the risk of developing these conditions in post-menopausal women. Medroxyprogesterone may also increase the risk of uterine or ovarian cancer in some women. Long-term treatment with estrogens and progestins (such as medroxyprogesterone) may also increase your risk of heart attack, blood clot, or stroke.

Talk to your doctor about your specific risks and benefits of taking this medication, especially if you smoke or are overweight. Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months) to determine whether you should continue this treatment.

How should I take medroxyprogesterone (Provera)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Medroxyprogesterone is usually given for only a few days in a row each month. You may need to start taking the medication on a certain day of your menstrual cycle, depending on why you are taking medroxyprogesterone. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using medroxyprogesterone.

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

Store medroxyprogesterone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.