Indications 

Provera is a prescription medication containing the active ingredient medroxyprogesterone acetate, which is similar to the natural hormone progesterone found in females. Your doctor may prescribe Provera for various reasons. 

Provera tablets are available in 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg strengths and are indicated for the treatment of menstrual problems, such as heavy, painful, irregular or frequent periods, and to restore menstrual periods that have ceased. This medication is used to treat endometriosis. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using this medication, carefully read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist, and follow the instructions given each time you refill your prescription. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. 

This medication is taken orally, in accordance with the dosing schedule provided by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment, so ensure to follow the dosing instructions carefully. 

If prescribed as part of a combination hormone replacement therapy with estrogens, this medication should be taken once daily for the prescribed number of days each month, as directed by your doctor. 

To treat menstrual cycle disorders such as amenorrhea or abnormal bleeding from the uterus, this medication is usually taken once daily for 5-10 days during the second half of the planned menstrual cycle or as prescribed by your doctor. Withdrawal bleeding typically occurs 3-7 days after you stop taking the medication. 

Side Effects 

Before using this medication, carefully read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Allergic Reactions

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as:

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat

Severe Side Effects

Serious side effects may occur while taking this medicine. If you experience any of the following, stop using the medicine immediately and contact your doctor: 

• Signs of a stroke, including:
  • Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body
  • Severe headache
  • Slurred speech
  • Problems with vision or balance 
• Signs of a blood clot, such as:
  • Sudden vision loss
  • Stabbing chest pain
  • Feeling short of breath
  • Coughing up blood
  • Pain or warmth in one or both legs 
• Heart attack symptoms, including:
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Pain spreading to the jaw or shoulder
  • Nausea
  • Sweating 
• Liver problems, such as:
  • Loss of appetite
  • Upper stomach pain
  • Tiredness
  • Fever
  • Dark urine
  • Clay-colored stools
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Unusual vaginal bleeding 
• Confusion or memory problems 
• A breast lump 
• Symptoms of depression, including sleep problems, weakness, tired feeling, and mood changes 

Common Side Effects  

• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding 
• Changes in menstrual periods 
• Vaginal itching or discharge 
• Headache, dizziness, or feeling nervous or depressed 
• Breast tenderness or discharge 
• Stomach discomfort, bloating, nausea, or vomiting 
• Itching, rash, acne, hair growth, or hair loss 
• Premenstrual-type symptoms (bloating, fluid retention, mood changes) 
• Weight gain 
• Bruising or swelling of veins 
• Tiredness or trouble sleeping 
• Vision changes and difficulty wearing contact lenses 

Caution 

Prior to taking medroxyprogesterone, kindly inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, including allergies to inactive ingredients present in some Canadian brands of this product, such as soybean, which may cause allergic reactions or other complications. If you are allergic to peanuts, there is a possibility that you may be allergic to soy. Consult your pharmacist for additional information. 

Inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have a history of blood clots, bleeding in the brain, liver disease, cancer of the breast or other female organs, vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, missed abortion, family history of breast lumps and cancer, kidney disease, obesity, heart disease (such as past heart attacks, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure), high blood pressure, seizures, migraine headaches, asthma, high blood levels of cholesterol/fats, depression, diabetes, or strokes. 

This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Using alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can intensify these symptoms. Do not to operate machinery, drive, or perform any activity that requires alertness until you can do it safely. Limit your alcohol consumption and discuss with your doctor if you use marijuana (cannabis). 

If you are planning to have surgery or anticipate prolonged periods of sitting or lying down (such as on a long plane flight), inform your doctor in advance. You may need to discontinue the medication temporarily or take special precautions due to the increased risk of blood clots. Ask your doctor for further information. 

Do not smoke while using this medication, as smoking coupled with this medication elevates your risk for strokes, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attacks. 

This medication may cause the development of blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma). Sunlight exposure can worsen this effect. Limit your sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing when outside. 

This medication is contraindicated in pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.