| name | Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone acetate) |
| classification | Progestogen-only contraceptive injection |
| pharmacokinetics | Medroxyprogesterone acetate is administered as an intramuscular injection. It is slowly released from the injection site into the bloodstream. The drug is metabolized in the liver, and the metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. The duration of action is long, leading to prolonged suppression of ovulation. |
| suggested dosage | Depo-Provera is typically administered as a 150 mg intramuscular injection every 3 months. Specific dosage is determined by a doctor and may vary based on individual patient factors. |
| indications | Depo-Provera is primarily used as a contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy. It can also be used in the management of endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and abnormal uterine bleeding. |
| safety in pregnancy | ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED if pregnancy is suspected or confirmed. |
| safety in breastfeeding | May affect milk production, although the impact on nursing is generally considered minimal if administered as per protocol. |
| side effects | | 1 | Weight changes (gain or loss) | | 2 | Mood changes (depression, anxiety) | | 3 | Headache | | 4 | Breast tenderness | | 5 | Menstrual irregularities (irregular bleeding, spotting, amenorrhea) | | 6 | Abdominal pain | | 7 | Decreased bone mineral density (a concern with long-term use) | | 8 | Changes in lipid profile (cholesterol, triglycerides) | | 9 | Hirsutism (excessive hair growth) | | 10 | Acne | | 11 | Rare cases of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack (though this is rare compared to other birth control methods). |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known or suspected pregnancy | | 2 | History of blood clots | | 3 | Liver disease | | 4 | Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding | | 5 | Known hypersensitivity to medroxyprogesterone acetate | | 6 | Severe osteoporosis | | 7 | Male gender |
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| interactions | | 1 | Certain medications (e.g., anticonvulsants) may decrease the effectiveness of Depo-Provera. | | 2 | May interact with some medications affecting liver function. Consult a physician before starting Depo-Provera if you are taking other medications. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Regular check-ups are important to monitor potential side effects and long-term health. | | 2 | Possible decreased bone mineral density. Patients should consult with their physician about potential strategies to mitigate this. | | 3 | Weight changes can occur and are often reversible once the drug is discontinued. | | 4 | A significant delay in return of fertility after discontinuation is a common occurrence | | 5 | Blood clots have a slightly increased risk compared with other birth control methods, but the risk remains low. |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Depo-Provera is a highly effective contraceptive method. It's important to discuss its suitability with a physician, considering individual factors and potential side effects. | | 2 | The injection is administered by a healthcare professional | | 3 | Effectiveness and side effects can differ between individuals. The patient should be monitored regularly. | | 4 | The long-lasting nature of the drug means that patients should be educated on potential side effects and potential delays to fertility after discontinuation. | | 5 | This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations. |
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