Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) is a prescription progestin medication widely utilized in gynecological and endocrine practice for its targeted action on the female reproductive system. As a synthetic derivative of the natural hormone progesterone, it provides predictable, controlled hormonal regulation, making it a cornerstone therapy for managing conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, secondary amenorrhea, and as part of hormone replacement regimens. Its well-established efficacy and extensive clinical history offer healthcare providers a reliable option for restoring hormonal balance and addressing specific menstrual disorders. This product card provides a comprehensive, evidence-based overview for medical professionals and informed patients.

Features

• Active ingredient: Medroxyprogesterone Acetate
• Available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg oral tablets
• Synthetic progestin with high bioavailability
• Standardized manufacturing under strict pharmaceutical controls
• Prescription-only medication requiring medical supervision

Benefits

• Effectively manages abnormal uterine bleeding by stabilizing the endometrial lining
• Induces predictable withdrawal bleeding in cases of secondary amenorrhea with estrogen-primed endometrium
• Provides endometrial protection in menopausal women undergoing estrogen-based hormone replacement therapy
• Offers a well-tolerated option for hormonal regulation with a established safety profile
• Enables tailored dosing based on individual patient needs and clinical indication

Common use

Provera is primarily indicated for the treatment of secondary amenorrhea and abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance in the absence of organic pathology. It is commonly prescribed to promote regular menstrual cycles in women with anovulatory disorders and to provide endometrial protection in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women receiving estrogen therapy. Off-label uses may include management of endometriosis-associated pain and as part of certain fertility treatment protocols, though these applications require careful medical consideration and monitoring.

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on the specific medical condition being treated. For secondary amenorrhea: 5-10 mg daily for 5-10 days, with withdrawal bleeding typically occurring within 3-7 days after completion. For abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance: 5-10 mg daily for 5-10 days beginning on day 16 of cycle, with bleeding usually occurring within 3-7 days after discontinuing therapy. For endometrial protection with estrogen in menopausal women: 2.5-10 mg daily for 12-14 consecutive days per month. Tablets should be taken at the same time each day with water, with or without food consistently.

Precautions

Patients should undergo thorough medical evaluation before initiation, including assessment of cardiovascular risk factors, liver function, and bone density when appropriate. Use with caution in patients with history of depression, epilepsy, migraine, asthma, or cardiac dysfunction. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, weight, and clinical response is recommended. Patients should be advised that this medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness affecting ability to drive or operate machinery. Long-term use requires periodic reevaluation of risk-benefit ratio, particularly regarding bone mineral density.

Contraindications

Provera is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to medroxyprogesterone acetate or any component of the formulation; known or suspected pregnancy; undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding; known or suspected breast carcinoma; active or history of thromboembolic disorders; severe hepatic dysfunction or disease; and missed abortion. It should not be used as a pregnancy test or for any indication during pregnancy due to potential risk to the fetus.

Possible side effect

Common side effects (≥1%) include nausea, bloating, breast tenderness, headache, dizziness, weight changes, and irregular bleeding patterns. Less frequently reported effects include mood changes, insomnia, fatigue, acne, hirsutism, alopecia, and changes in libido. Serious but rare adverse reactions may include thromboembolic events, retinal thrombosis, optic neuritis, anaphylactic reactions, and depression. Most side effects are dose-dependent and often diminish with continued therapy or dosage adjustment.

Drug interaction

Provera may interact with medications that induce hepatic enzymes, including rifampin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and carbamazepine, potentially reducing its efficacy. Concurrent use with aminoglutethimide may accelerate metabolism of medroxyprogesterone. It may interfere with laboratory tests including endocrine function tests, coagulation parameters, and metyrapone tests. Caution is advised when coadministering with other CNS depressants due to potential additive effects.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling doses to make up for a missed dose is not recommended. Consistently missed doses may result in breakthrough bleeding or reduced efficacy. Patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance if multiple doses are missed or if breakthrough bleeding occurs.

Overdose

Acute overdose with medroxyprogesterone acetate is unlikely to produce life-threatening symptoms. Possible manifestations may include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and dizziness. There is no specific antidote; treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion was recent. Medical attention should be sought for evaluation, particularly in cases of large ingestion or concerning symptoms.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in the original container with lid tightly closed. Protect from light, moisture, and excessive heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication according to local regulations, avoiding flushing or pouring into drainage systems.

Disclaimer

This information is provided 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 response to therapy may vary, and proper medical evaluation is necessary before initiation. The prescriber should be familiar with the complete prescribing information and latest clinical guidelines. Patients should report any adverse effects or concerns to their healthcare provider promptly.

Reviews

Clinical studies and decades of therapeutic use demonstrate Provera’s efficacy in managing hormonal disorders, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in menstrual regularity and bleeding patterns. Healthcare providers appreciate its predictable action and flexible dosing options. Some patients report satisfaction with symptom control, though individual experiences with side effects vary. Ongoing research continues to refine understanding of its risk-benefit profile in various patient populations.