| drug name | Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA) |
| classification | Progestin, Contraceptive |
| pharmacokinetics | DMPA is administered as an intramuscular injection. It is slowly released from the depot, maintaining consistent levels of medroxyprogesterone in the bloodstream. The half-life is relatively long, typically around 3 months. Metabolism occurs primarily in the liver. |
| suggested dosage | 150 mg intramuscular injection every 3 months for contraception. |
| indications | Primary use is for contraception. May be used in some cases for endometriosis or other conditions involving excess estrogen, but this is secondary. |
| safety in pregnancy | Contraindicated. Pregnancy should be ruled out before initiating DMPA. |
| safety in breastfeeding | May reduce milk production. Benefits vs risks should be carefully considered if breastfeeding. Consult with a doctor. |
| side effects | | 1 | Weight gain | | 2 | Irregular or absent menstrual bleeding (amenorrhea) | | 3 | Mood changes | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Breast tenderness | | 6 | Nausea | | 7 | Decreased bone mineral density (especially with prolonged use) | | 8 | Decreased libido | | 9 | Hair loss | | 10 | Fatigue | | 11 | Acne |
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| alternative drugs | | 1 | | | 2 | | drug name | Progesterone-only pills (POPs) | | description | Contain only progestin, taken orally daily. |
| | 3 | | drug name | Transdermal patches | | description | Contain estrogen and progestin, applied to the skin. |
| | 4 | | drug name | Vaginal rings | | description | Contain estrogen and progestin, inserted into the vagina. |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Known or suspected pregnancy | | 2 | History of blood clots | | 3 | Severe liver disease | | 4 | Breast cancer | | 5 | Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding | | 6 | Known hypersensitivity to DMPA |
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| interactions | DMPA can interact with other medications, especially those affecting liver enzymes. Consult with a doctor about any medications you are taking before starting DMPA. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor effectiveness and potential side effects. | | 2 | DMPA can impact bone mineral density, especially with prolonged use. Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation might be recommended. | | 3 | DMPA is not recommended for all patients. Individual risk-benefit assessment is critical. | | 4 | DMPA can delay or stop the return of fertility after cessation of use. |
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| additional information | DMPA is a highly effective contraceptive method. Patients should be fully informed of its benefits and potential side effects before initiating treatment. The duration of treatment should be discussed with the doctor. |
| important note | DMPA is a contraceptive medication for female patients only. |
