DRUG INDEX
GENERIC NAME: medroxyprogesterone BRAND NAMES: Provera, Cycrin
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Medroxyprogesterone is a progestin, that is, a derivative of progesterone. Progestins cause the changes in the mucus of the uterine cervix and the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) which naturally occur during the second half ("secretory phase") of the menstrual cycle. In some women, progestins also inhibit ovulation (release of the egg). Progestins were first isolated in 1933, and progesterone itself was synthesized in the 1940s.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 2.5mg, 5mg, and 10mg.
STORAGE: Tablets should be stored between 2° (36°F) and 30°C (86°F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Medroxyprogesterone oral tablets are used to treat some women who have stopped menstruating but who have not yet reached menopause (secondary amenorrhea) and in some women with excessive bleeding from the uterus. It is not used for uterine bleeding due to fibroids or tumors, however. The injectable form of medroxyprogesterone, Depo-Provera, is used to prevent pregnancy and in the treatment of some cancers.
DOSING: Medroxyprogesterone is usually given daily for several consecutive days.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: There are no known interactions with oral medroxyprogesterone. Aminoglutethimide interacts with injectable medroxyprogesterone, resulting in lower blood levels and possibly loss of effectiveness.
PREGNANCY: Progestins should not be taken during the first four months of pregnancy. The incidence of certain malformations in the developing male penis (hypospadias) appears to be increased by progestins.
NURSING MOTHERS: There have not been ill-effects in infants nursed by mothers who have been receiving medroxyprogesterone.
SIDE EFFECTS: Breast tenderness and milk leakage from the breast can occur rarely. Various skin reactions, including hives , acne , hair growth and hair loss , have also been reported occasionally. Break-through bleeding (menstrual-like bleeding in the middle of the menstrual cycle), spotting, changes in menstrual flow, increased or decreased weight, nausea, fever, insomnia, and jaundice have all been reported.
Blood clots are an occasional, serious adverse reaction to progestin therapy, and cigarette smokers may be at higher risk. Therefore, patients requiring progestin therapy are strongly encouraged to quit smoking .
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