Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) is a prescription progestin medication used to treat a variety of hormone-related conditions in women. As a synthetic form of the natural hormone progesterone, it works by adjusting hormonal balance in the body, addressing issues from abnormal uterine bleeding to endometriosis. Its well-established efficacy and decades of clinical use make it a cornerstone in gynecological therapeutics, offering a targeted approach to managing complex reproductive health disorders under professional supervision.

Features

• Contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progestogen
• Available in multiple strengths: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg oral tablets
• Typically supplied in bottles of 100 tablets
• Requires prescription and medical supervision
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards
• Stable shelf life with proper storage conditions

Benefits

• Effectively regulates menstrual cycles in women with hormonal imbalances
• Reduces abnormal uterine bleeding by promoting secretory endometrium
• Provides protective effect against endometrial hyperplasia in estrogen-treated postmenopausal women
• Manages symptoms of endometriosis by suppressing endometrial tissue growth
• Offers secondary amenorrhea treatment to restore menstrual regularity
• Serves as palliative therapy for advanced endometrial and renal cancer

Common use

Provera is commonly prescribed for treating secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods in women who previously had regular cycles) and abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance. It is frequently used in combination with estrogen in hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women to protect the uterine lining. Additionally, physicians prescribe Provera for managing endometriosis-associated pain and as part of certain cancer treatment protocols. The medication may also be used off-label for other conditions as determined appropriate by healthcare providers.

Dosage and direction

Dosage varies significantly based on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. For secondary amenorrhea: typically 5-10 mg daily for 5-10 days, with withdrawal bleeding expected within 3-7 days after completion. For abnormal uterine bleeding: usually 5-10 mg daily for 5-10 days beginning on day 16 of cycle. For endometriosis: doses may range from 10-40 mg daily. For hormone replacement therapy: typically 2.5-10 mg daily for 12-14 consecutive days per month. Always take exactly as prescribed, with or without food as directed, at approximately the same time each day. Do not adjust dosage without medical consultation.

Precautions

Patients should undergo thorough medical evaluation before starting Provera, including breast examination and Pap smear. Use with caution in patients with history of depression, as progestins may exacerbate symptoms. Monitor blood glucose levels in diabetic patients, as progestins may decrease glucose tolerance. Regular physical examinations are recommended during therapy. Patients should report immediately any sudden partial or complete loss of vision, diplopia, or migraine. Use caution in patients with conditions that might be aggravated by fluid retention (such as epilepsy, migraine, asthma, or cardiac or renal dysfunction).

Contraindications

Provera is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to medroxyprogesterone acetate or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in women with known or suspected pregnancy, as it may cause harm to the fetus. Additional contraindications include known or suspected breast cancer, active deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, active or recent arterial thromboembolic disease, undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding, and significant liver disease or tumors. It is also contraindicated in cases of missed abortion and as a diagnostic test for pregnancy.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include menstrual flow changes, amenorrhea, spotting, breast tenderness or discomfort, weight changes, nausea, headache, nervousness, insomnia, fatigue, and dizziness. Less frequently reported effects include acne, hirsutism, alopecia, depression, changes in libido, hot flashes, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Rare but serious potential side effects include thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, retinal thrombosis, optic neuritis, and anaphylactic reactions. Any unusual symptoms should be reported promptly to a healthcare provider.

Drug interaction

Provera may interact with several medications, including aminoglutethimide (may decrease medroxyprogesterone levels), barbiturates, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and rifampin (may increase metabolism of progestins). It may affect the metabolism of cyclosporine, requiring dosage adjustment. Concurrent use with other hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy requires careful monitoring. Progestins may alter thyroid function test results. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up. The specific management of missed doses may vary depending on the therapeutic indication. For cyclic therapy, contact your healthcare provider for instructions if a dose is missed, as the timing relative to the menstrual cycle is critical. Consistent dosing is important for optimal therapeutic effect, so establish routines to minimize missed doses.

Overdose

No serious adverse effects have been reported following acute ingestion of large doses of medroxyprogesterone acetate. However, in case of suspected overdose, contact poison control or emergency medical services immediately. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote. Medical evaluation is recommended to assess potential consequences, particularly in children or individuals with compromised health status.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F), with excursions permitted between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep container tightly closed and protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication after treatment completion, preferably through medication take-back programs or according to specific disposal instructions provided.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Provera is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary, and not all patients will experience the same benefits or side effects. The prescribing physician will determine the appropriate treatment based on individual medical history, current health status, and specific therapeutic needs. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding medication use.

Reviews

Clinical studies and patient experiences generally reflect Provera’s effectiveness in managing hormone-related conditions when used as directed. Many patients report successful regulation of menstrual cycles and reduction in abnormal bleeding. Some users note side effects such as weight changes or mood alterations, which often diminish with continued use or dosage adjustment. Healthcare providers typically consider Provera a valuable option in their therapeutic arsenal for specific gynecological conditions, emphasizing the importance of proper patient selection and monitoring throughout treatment.