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Medroxyprogesterone

Brand names: Depo-Provera (shot), Depo-SubQ Provera 104, Provera (pills)

Medroxyprogesterone is a progestin hormone. The shot (Depo-Provera) prevents pregnancy for 3 months; the pills treat abnormal periods.

Brand namesDepo-Provera (shot), Depo-SubQ Provera 104, Provera (pills)
Type of medicineProgestin hormone
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

The shot is given every 13 weeks. The pills are used with estrogen after menopause to protect the uterus.

What it's used for

  • Birth control (shot)
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding and missed periods (pills)
  • Protecting the uterus during estrogen therapy (pills)
  • Endometriosis pain (subQ shot)

How to take it

  • Shot: get it every 13 weeks; mark the next date.
  • Pills: take as prescribed for the days your provider sets.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Irregular bleeding or spotting
  • Periods stopping (with the shot)
  • Weight gain
  • Headache
  • Mood changes
Call 911Chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, or signs of a stroke
Call your provider todayPain or swelling in one leg
Call your provider todayVery heavy bleeding
Call your provider todaySevere depression

Warnings

  • Boxed warning (shot): bone thinning with long-term use. Get calcium and vitamin D. Use for more than 2 years only if other methods aren't right.
  • Fertility can take months to return after stopping the shot.
  • It doesn't protect against STIs.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Some seizure medicines may lower its effect (pills).

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used during pregnancy. The shot is fine while breastfeeding.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Shot: if you're more than 2 weeks late (more than 15 weeks since your last shot), you may need a pregnancy test before the next shot, and you should use backup birth control. Pills: take it when you remember unless it's almost time for the next dose.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.