Medroxyprogesterone Acetate
Uses of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate is commonly used in the treatment of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding, Breast Cancer, Endometriosis and Post Menopausal Osteoporosis. It is also used to relieve heavy menstrual bleeding. Medroxyprogesterone Acetate is also used in hormone replacement therapy and contraception.
How Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Works
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate is a synthetic form of progesterone which converts the proliferative phase of the endometrium into secretory phase but without the presence of estrogenic activity and minimal androgenic effect. It also prevents follicular maturation and ovulation hence it’s used as contraception.
Side Effects of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (irregular menstrual cycle, spotting, ) Fatigue, Insomnia, Edema, Depression, Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Breast tenderness, Weight gain or loss, Pain at injection site
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Dose adjustment of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate is not needed since it is eliminated by hepatic metabolism.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Alcohol will be an added risk of low bone mineral density with simultaneous use of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate. Taking Medroxyprogesterone Acetate with alcohol may alaso interfere with the absorption and metabolism of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate.
Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate is contraindicated to use during pregnancy. Both animals and human studies have proven adverse effects on the fetus. The risks clearly outweigh the benefits of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate. Please consult your doctor if pregnancy occurs.
Driving Generally Safe
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Safe If Prescribed
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment. It should be used with caution in patients with any other liver disease. Dose adjustment of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Safe If Prescribed
Tablet: Medroxyprogesterone Acetate and its metabolites are can pass into breast milk but risk to baby is minimal. Please consult your doctor. Injection: No adverse effects have been noted to child exposed to Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, even though it can be secreted in breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
