Skip to Main Content

Medroxyprogesterone Oral Tablet (MEDROXYPROGESTERONE – ORAL)

Medroxyprogesterone Oral Tablet (MEDROXYPROGESTERONE - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • endometriosis
  • menopausal symptoms
  • menstrual problem

Brand Name(s): Provera

Generic Name: Medroxyprogesterone

Instructions

Take the medicine with 250 mL (1 cup) of water.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

You may have mild vaginal bleeding or spotting while on this medicine. Do not stop taking the medicine if this happens. Contact your doctor if bleeding is heavy or lasts more than a few days.

This medicine may cause dark patches to appear on your face. Avoid sunlight and use sunscreen lotion to minimize further darkening of these skin patches.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of some types of cancer in women. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting. Do not stand or sit up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Talk to your doctor about getting a complete physical exam every year while on this medicine.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • acne
  • bloating
  • breast pain or swelling
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • headaches
  • nausea
  • vaginal dryness or irritation
  • vaginal itching or discharge
  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • breast lump or discharge
  • chest pain
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • depression or feeling sad
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fainting
  • severe or persistent headache
  • sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • dark patches on skin or face
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • cramping of the uterus or bleeding from the vagina
  • vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • severe or persistent vomiting
  • sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.