Provera (Medroxyprogesterone)

What is Provera?

Provera is a kind of female hormone (progestin) that is similar to the progesterone made by the body naturally. The medication is usually administered when the body does not make enough progesterone of its own.

What is Provera used for?

Provera is indicated for the treatment of conditions like irregular or no menstrual periods, or abnormal uterine bleeding. It is also used to lower the risk associated with endometrial hyperplasia (which may lead to uterine cancer).

The medicine can also help prevent overgrowth in the uterus lining of women who have achieved menopause and are receiving estrogen hormone replacement therapy.

How does Provera work?

Provera works by replacing the naturally produced hormone called progesterone in the body.

How to use Provera

Provera should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer period or in larger amount than recommended can cause some health problems.

The medication is usually taken once daily for the prescribed number of days each month. If you are taking it for abnormal vaginal bleeding or amenorrhea (stopped menstrual periods), take the medicine for 5- 10 days during the second half of the planned menstrual cycle.

Provera warnings and precautions

Do not use Provera if you are allergic to medroxyprogesterone or if you are suffering from liver disease, a history of blood clotting or stroke, abnormal and unchecked vaginal bleeding, or any type of breast, uterine or hormone-dependent cancer.

Prior to taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you have any of the following illnesses: high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, recent history of heart attack or stroke, heart disease, high cholesterol, kidney disease, low calcium levels in the blood, asthma, severe pelvic pain, recent abortion or miscarriage, migraine headache, lupus, diabetes, or epilepsy.You might need an adjustment in the dosage.

Avoid smoking while taking this medication as it can enhance the risk of developing blood clots.

If you get pregnant while you are under this medication, consult the doctor immediately to discuss the conditions. Pregnant women must not use Provera as it can cause birth defects. Nursing mothers also must not use Provera as it can pass through breast milk and could cause harm to an infant. It has also been noted to slow down the production of breast milk.

What do I do if I have missed a Provera dose?

If you have missed a dose of Provera, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.

What do I do if I have taken a Provera overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Provera, contact your doctor immediately.

Provera interactions

Before taking Provera, tell your doctor if you are taking St. John’s wort, azole antifungals, seizure medications, rifampin. These drugs can interact with Provera. Inform your doctor about all the prescription and non prescription drugs that you are already taking. Also, do not take any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Provera side effects

Contact your doctor if you experience side effects of Provera like hives, sudden headache, problems with speech, vision or balance; sudden numbness, confusion, chest pain, difficulty in breathing, cough, rapid breathing, wheezing, fast heart rate, breast lump, feeling that you might lose consciousness, vaginal bleeding, depression symptoms, jaundice, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, legs, or ankles.

Less serious side effects from Provera may include breakthrough bleeding, vaginal discharge or itching, changes in menstrual periods, breast tenderness or discharge, increased acne, loss of scalp hair, skin rash, mild itching, insomnia, changes in weight or appetite.