Medroxyprogesterone — what it does and how to use it safely

Medroxyprogesterone (often shortened to MPA) is a synthetic progestin doctors use for several hormone-related problems. You’ll most often hear it called Provera (oral) or Depo‑Provera (injectable). People take it for birth control, to manage menstrual issues, for hormone therapy, and sometimes as part of cancer treatment.

If you’re thinking about medroxyprogesterone, here’s the straight talk: know which form you’re using, how it might change your body, and what checks your doctor will want to run. That makes side effects easier to handle and keeps treatment working well.

Common uses and what to expect

As a contraceptive, the depo shot is given every 12–13 weeks and is very effective. Oral medroxyprogesterone treats irregular bleeding, protects the lining of the uterus during estrogen therapy, and can help with conditions like endometriosis. In some cancers, it’s used to slow growth of hormone-sensitive tumors.

Expect changes to your bleeding pattern. With injections, many people stop having periods after a few months. With pills, spotting or irregular bleeding is common at first. Mood changes, headaches, and weight shifts are also reported.

Safety, interactions and practical tips

Don’t use medroxyprogesterone if you’re pregnant. Tell your doctor about blood clot history, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Progestins are generally safer than estrogen for some risks, but they still need careful use in certain people.

Some drugs — especially liver enzyme inducers like certain anti-seizure medicines or rifampicin — can lower medroxyprogesterone levels. If you plan to get pregnant soon, know that fertility may return later after a depo shot; many people wait several months to a year after stopping injections to conceive.

Long-term injectable use can reduce bone density in some people. Your provider might suggest calcium, vitamin D, exercise, or bone checks if you use it for years. Regular follow-up lets your clinician catch mood shifts, weight gain, or other side effects early.

Practical tips: ask your clinician which form fits your goals, read the leaflet, and keep a simple calendar for injection dates or pill days. If you notice sudden shortness of breath, leg swelling, severe abdominal pain, or very heavy bleeding, seek medical help right away.

Medroxyprogesterone works well for many people when used with clear instructions and follow-up. Talk openly with your prescriber about risks, other medicines you take, and family plans so you can pick the safest, most effective option for you.