Provera

Common Name: medroxyprogesterone acetate

How does Provera work?

Medroxyprogesterone belongs to the group of medicines known as progesterones. Progesterones are female hormones. They are produced by the body and are necessary along with other hormones for normal female sexual development and for the regulation of the menstrual cycle during childbearing years. Medroxyprogesterone is a progesterone that is derived from soybeans. It reduces the effects of estrogen on tissues such as the endometrium (lining of the uterus) and the breast. Medroxyprogesterone has a variety of uses. It is used in addition to postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to prevent estrogen from thickening the lining of the uterus (endometrial hyperplasia). This significantly reduces the risk of endometrial cancer. It is also used to treat irregular menstrual cycles, lack of menstruation, and abnormal menstrual bleeding. Medroxyprogesterone is also used alone or in combination with other cancer medications for the treatment of endometrial cancer and breast cancer. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Provera?

The recommended adult dose of medroxyprogesterone varies widely and depends on the condition being treated and the response to treatment. For example, a typical dose for hormone replacement therapy ranges from 2.5 mg to 10 mg daily, whereas a typical dose for treatment of breast cancer is 400 mg daily, and a typical dose for endometrial cancer treatment is 200 mg to 400 mg daily. For hormone replacement therapy, tablets are taken either on a daily basis, or a cyclic basis (i.e., specific days of the month). For controlling unusual and heavy bleeding of the uterus, or for treating unusual stopping of menstrual periods, a typical dose of medroxyprogesterone is 5 mg to 10 mg daily for 10 to 14 days per month. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If the dose or schedule of medication that has been prescribed for you is different from those listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose of medroxyprogesterone, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not double doses. Medroxyprogesterone should be stored in a dry place at room temperature and out of direct light.

What form(s) does Provera come in?

Provera® is available as tablets or in a package. Tablets: 2.5 mg: Each orange, round tablet, marked "U 64", contains medroxyprogesterone acetate 2.5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, FD&C Yellow No. 6, lactose, mineral oil, sucrose, and talc. This medication does not contain gluten. 5 mg: Each blue, round, scored tablet, marked "U 286", contains medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, FD&C Blue No. 2, lactose, mineral oil, sucrose, and talc. This medication does not contain gluten. 10 mg: Each white, round, scored tablet, marked "Upjohn 50", contains medroxyprogesterone acetate 10 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, lactose, mineral oil, sucrose, and talc. This medication does not contain gluten. 100 mg: Each white, round, scored tablet marked "U 467", contains medroxyprogesterone acetate 100 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, lactose, sodium laurylsulfate, sucrose, and talc. This medication does not contain gluten. Package: 5 mg: Each blue tablet, marked "U 286", contains medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, FD&C Blue No. 2, lactose, mineral oil, sucrose, and talc. 10 mg: Each white tablet, marked "Upjohn 50", contains medroxyprogesterone acetate 10 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, lactose, mineral oil, sucrose, and talc.

What should I NOT take with Provera?

Medroxyprogesterone should not be used by anyone who: is allergic to medroxyprogesterone or any ingredients in this medication has certain blood clotting disorders or a history of these disorders (thrombophlebitis, thromboembolic disorders, cerebral apoplexy) has undiagnosed vaginal bleeding has undiagnosed urinary tract bleeding has undiagnosed breast disease is pregnant

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Provera?

Blood clotting problems: Medroxyprogesterone can increase the risk of problems for people with a history of blood clots, stroke, or varicose veins. Breast disease: Certain types of breast disease (e.g., lumps or cysts) can be made worse by this medication. Bleeding: Withdrawal bleeding usually occurs within seven days of stopping medroxyprogesterone. Contact your doctor if you experience bleeding while using this medication. Diabetes: Medroxyprogesterone can sometimes cause an increase in blood glucose. People with diabetes should carefully monitor their blood sugar while taking this medication. Fluid build-up: Medroxyprogesterone can increase the risk of problems for people with heart disease, kidney disease, migraine, asthma, and epilepsy because of the potential of fluid build-up. Pregnancy: Women should use effective birth control when taking this medication. If you become pregnant while taking medroxyprogesterone, tell your doctor right away. Breast-feeding: Medroxyprogesterone does pass into breast milk, but it has not been associated with harmful effects in breast-fed infants.