Provera

Generic name: Medroxyprogesterone acetate

What is Provera?

Provera is used to treat menstrual periods that have stopped and abnormal uterine bleeding when these conditions are due to a hormone imbalance and not caused by fibroids or cancer. Provera is also used to reduce the risk of overgrowth of the lining of the uterus in women who are being treated with estrogen.

What is the most important information I should know about Provera?

Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus. Your doctor should check any unusual vaginal bleeding to find out the cause.

Do not use estrogens with progestins to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes. Using estrogens with or without progestins may increase your chance of getting heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, and blood clots.

Do not use estrogens with progestins to prevent dementia. Using estrogens with or without progestins may increase your risk of dementia.

You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with Provera.

Who should not take Provera?

Do not take Provera if you have liver disease; a history of known or suspected cancer of the breast or reproductive organs, or hormone-sensitive tumors; unusual vaginal bleeding; history of blood clots in the legs, lungs, eyes, brain, or elsewhere; history of stroke or heart attack; may be having a miscarriage; are allergic to progesterone or any of the ingredients in the tablets; or are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.

Do not use Provera as a test for pregnancy.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Provera?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Provera. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have asthma (wheezing), epilepsy (seizures), migraine headaches, endometriosis (severe pelvic pain), lupus, problems with your heart, liver, thyroid, or kidneys, or if you have low calcium levels in your blood. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you are going to have surgery or will be on bed rest.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

To Accompany Estrogen Replacement Therapy

Adults: The recommended regimen is 5 or 10 mg of Provera a day for 12 to 14 consecutive days each month, beginning on either Day 1 or Day 16 of your cycle.

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Due to Hormonal Imbalance

Adults: Beginning on the 16th or 21st day of your menstrual cycle, you will take 5 to 10 mg daily for 5 to 10 days. Make sure you discuss with your doctor what effect this will have on your menstrual cycle. You should have bleeding 3 to 7 days after you stop taking Provera.

To Restore Menstrual Periods

Adults: Provera Tablets are taken in dosages of 5 to 10 milligrams (mg) daily for 5 to 10 days. Make sure you discuss with your doctor what effect this will have on your menstrual cycle. You should have bleeding 3 to 7 days after you stop taking Provera.

The safety and effectiveness of Provera Tablets in children has not been established.

How should I take Provera?

Start at the lowest dose and talk to your healthcare provider about how well that dose is working for you. The lowest effective dose of Provera has not been determined. You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly (every 3-6 months) about your response to Provera and whether you still need treatment.

What should I avoid while taking Provera?

Avoid smoking while taking Provera. Smoking can increase the risk of developing a blood clot.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Provera?

If Provera is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking while on Provera.

What are the possible side effects of Provera?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: breast tenderness, breast milk secretion, breakthrough bleeding or spotting (minor vaginal bleeding), irregular periods, absence of menstrual periods, vaginal secretions, headache, nervousness, dizziness, depression, insomnia, sleepiness, fatigue, premenstrual syndrome-like symptoms, thrombophlebitis (inflammation cause by blood clots), itching, hives, skin rash, acne, hair loss, hair growth, abdominal discomfort, nausea, bloating, fever, increase in weight, swelling, changes in vision and sensitivity to contact lenses

These are not all the possible side effects of Provera. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Can I receive Provera if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not take Provera during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. There is an increased risk of minor birth defects in children whose mothers take this drug during the first 4 months of pregnancy.

Provera appears in breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Provera?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and resume your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Provera?

Store at room temperature.