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Medroxyprogesterone Coupon - Medroxyprogesterone 1ml of 150mg/ml syringe

medroxyprogesterone

Generic Depo-Provera
Used for Birth Control, Renal Cancer, Endometriosis, Irregular Menstruation
Used for Birth Control, Renal Cancer, Endometriosis, Irregular Menstruation

Medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera) is a progestin-only birth control. It's injected into the muscles or under the skin once every 3 months by a healthcare provider to prevent pregnancy. It's also used to treat pain related to endometriosis. Some of the more common side effects of medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) include changes in menstrual bleeding, headache, and weight gain. Because receiving this medication long-term can weaken your bones, you can only use it for a maximum of 2 years, unless otherwise directed by your provider.

Last reviewed on December 19, 2023
basics-icon

What is Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)?

What is Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) used for?

How Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) works

Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) is a progestin. It works to prevent pregnancy by stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg and by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in your uterus. Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) relieves pain related to endometriosis by thinning the lining of your uterus.

Are you looking for information on medroxyprogesterone (Provera) oral tablets instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsDepo-Provera, Depo-SubQ Provera 104
Drug ClassProgestin
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) essentials

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Avg retail price
$58.900
GoodRx discount
$58.90
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What are the side effects of Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Depo-Provera
  • No menstrual period (up to 68%)
  • Irregular periods (up to 57%)
  • Weight gain (38%)
  • Headache (17%)
  • Stomach pain or discomfort (11%)
  • Nervousness (11%)
  • Dizziness (6%)
  • Lowered sex drive (5%)
Depo-SubQ Provera
  • Irregular bleeding (18%)
  • Headache (9%)
  • Weight gain (7%)
  • No menstrual period (6%)
  • Injection site pain, skin changes (6%)

Other Side Effects

  • Acne
  • Nausea
  • Leg cramps
  • More vaginal discharge than usual
  • Breast pain
  • Bloating
  • Swelling
  • Backache
  • Mood changes

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious allergic reactions: trouble breathing, hives, itching, tightness in the throat, nausea, stomach pain
  • Heart attack: chest pain or tightness, pain that radiates up to your shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw
  • Stroke: sudden trouble talking, trouble walking, numbness on one side of your body or face, sudden, severe headaches
  • Blood clot in the lungs: trouble breathing, feeling light-headed, feeling faint, coughing up blood, racing heart
  • Blood clot in the leg: leg swelling, redness, pain, or warmth (typically in just one leg)
  • Ectopic pregnancy: severe, unexplainable pelvic pain along with unusual vaginal bleeding

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

menstrual changes

stopping of menstrual bleeding

Less common

Breast pain

cramps

heavy bleeding

increased clear or white vaginal discharge

itching of the vagina or genital area

pain during sexual intercourse

swelling

thick, white vaginal discharge with no odor or with a mild odor

Incidence not known

Anxiety

black, tarry stools

blood in the stools

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

changes in skin color

chest pain or tightness

chills

clay-colored stools

clear or bloody discharge from the nipple

cough

dark urine

decrease in height

difficult or labored breathing

difficulty with swallowing

dimpling of the breast skin

dizziness or lightheadedness

dull ache or feeling of pressure or heaviness in the legs

fainting

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

headache

hives, itching, or rash

increased thirst

inverted nipple

itching skin near damaged veins

loss of appetite

lump in the breast or under the arm

nausea

no sensation in the legs

noisy breathing

pain in the back, ribs, arms, or legs

pain, redness, tenderness, or swelling of the arm, foot, or leg

pale skin

persistent crusting or scaling of the nipple

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

redness or swelling of the breast

seizures

sore on the skin of the breast that does not heal

stomach pain

swelling

swollen feet and ankles

trouble breathing

unable to move the legs

unpleasant breath odor

unusual bruising or bleeding

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting of blood

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Decreased interest in sexual intercourse

inability to have or keep an erection

increased weight

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

nervousness

stomach discomfort

Less common

Backache

blemishes on the skin

bloating

depression

difficulty with moving

feeling of warmth

hair loss or thinning of the hair

lack or loss of strength

leg cramps

muscle pain or stiffness

pain in the joints

pimples

redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

sudden sweating

trouble sleeping

Incidence not known

Bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site

brown, blotchy spots on the exposed skin

changes in appetite

diarrhea

drowsiness

dry skin

hoarseness

increased hair growth, especially on the face

increased in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

increased interest in sexual intercourse

increased sweating and body odor

indigestion

loss of appetite

passing of gas

patchy brown or dark brown discoloration of the skin

stomach pain, fullness, or discomfort

swelling of the armpits

unexpected or excess milk flow from breasts

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)

thumbs-up

Pros

Very effective at preventing pregnancy

Only has to be injected once every 3 months

Many people experience lighter or no periods while using it

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause weight gain

Can cause bloating or fluid build-up

Not recommended for use longer than 2 years because of risk for weakened bones

Must be given by a healthcare provider

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)

pharmacist
  • In order for medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) to work well to prevent pregnancy, you must receive the shot on time every 3 months. Keep track of your appointments by writing the dates on a calendar. Or, you can try using an app on your smart phone.

    • If you miss your medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) appointment by a week or more (or 2 weeks or more for Depo-SubQ Provera), you'll need to use a back up birth control method, such as condoms, until you can get your dose and for a week after that. Call your clinic right away to reschedule if you didn't make it to your appointment and ask for further instructions.

      • It's very likely you'll have a change to your periods once you start medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). Most people experience light or no periods, but heavier periods and breakthrough bleeding are also possible. It can take several months for your periods to become more stable after starting this medication. Let your provider know if this side effect is bothersome or concerning.

        • Weight gain is a common side effect of medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). To minimize weight gain, talk to your provider or dietician about how to eat a balanced diet. Also, try your best to schedule in at least 30 minutes of low or moderate-intensity exercise daily.

          • Some people reported higher blood sugar levels after starting medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). If you have diabetes or are already taking blood sugar medications, your provider might ask you to check your blood sugar levels more often after you begin medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). If needed, they might make changes to your blood sugar medications.

            • Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) can cause inaccurate results for some blood tests, such as tests for clotting factors or lipids. Before you get any blood tests done, let your provider know you're receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera).

              • Let your provider know if you experience unusual vaginal bleeding, lumps in your breast, changes to your vision, or severe headaches after starting medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). These aren't typical side effects and could be signs of more serious problems that need medical attention.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)

                Is medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) birth control?
                Yes, medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) is a progestin-only birth control. It's also FDA-approved to ease pain related to endometriosis.
                How long does it take for medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) to work?
                If you're starting medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for the first time to prevent pregnancy and receive the shot within 5 days of your menstrual period, it should start working right away. But if you receive the shot outside of this time frame, you'll need to use non-hormonal back-up birth controls, such as condoms, for a week to protect against pregnancy. If you're taking medroxyprogesterone (Depo-SubQ Provera) for pain from endometriosis, you can expect your symptoms to improve in about 6 months. Talk with your provider if you have more questions about how long it takes for medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) to work.
                Can you get pregnant while taking medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)?
                Though unlikely, it's still possible to get pregnant while receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). When you get the shot on time every 3 months, it'll protect against pregnancy 99% of the time. But if you miss a dose or are late in getting a dose, the risk of getting pregnant is higher. And if that's the case or if you think you might be pregnant, take a pregnancy test. If it's positive, let your provider know because they'll want to check on the health of you and your baby. In particular, your provider will want to see if you have an ectopic pregnancy, which can be dangerous.
                Does medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) cause weight gain?
                Yes, weight gain is one of the more common side effects of medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). In comparison, the under-the-skin injection (Depo-SubQ Provera) isn't as likely to cause this side effect. On average, people gain between 5 and 6 pounds after using medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for a year. The longer you're using this medication, the more likely it is that you'll gain more weight. If you're concerned about weight gain, you can track your weight over time and share the results with your provider; they can let you know if you're gaining too much weight too fast.
                Why am I still bleeding while taking medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)?
                If you have regular periods before taking medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), you'll likely continue to have periods when you first start medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). But you can expect changes to your bleeding over time. For example, many people experience irregular bleeding or spotting within the first year of treatment. But after receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for about a year or longer, more people report their periods stopping completely.
                Does medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) stop periods?
                Yes, receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) can stop your period. This is more likely to happen after you've been taking medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for a year or longer. For example, clinical study showed that 55% of the people who received medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) stopped having periods after a year of treatment; and 68% of the people experienced this after 2 years of treatment.
                How long after stopping medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) can I get pregnant?
                After you stop medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), you'll likely experience a delay before you become pregnant. Research shows it took people on average 10 months to conceive after stopping medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), though some people became pregnant as early as 4 months. If you're concerned about medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) and fertility, talk with your provider.
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                What are the risks and warnings for Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)?

                Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Weakened bones

                • Risk factors: Using medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for more than 2 years | Family history of osteoporosis | Taking corticosteroids long-term | Long-term alcohol use | Smoking | History of anorexia nervosa (eating disorder)

                  People who use medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) are more likely to experience calcium loss in their bones. This can lead to broken bones and osteoporosis. While there are several conditions that can raise your risk of this problem, using medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for too long is the biggest risk factor. If you're receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for more than 2 years, your provider might order tests to make sure your bones are still healthy.

                  risk-warning

                  Blood clots

                  • Risk factors: Personal history of blood clots

                    People who received medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) have developed blood clots. But it's unclear whether the clots were caused by this medication or other factors. If you develop a blood clot, your provider will likely ask you to stop medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). If you have ever had blood clots in the past, this might not be the best option for you. Be sure to discuss all your past and present medical conditions with your provider before starting medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). Call 911 or get medical attention right away if you have pain in your legs or arms, chest pain, sudden severe headaches, trouble breathing, or sudden changes in your speech or vision.

                    risk-warning

                    Possible risk of breast cancer

                    • Risk factors: Personal or family history of breast cancer | Using medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) for more than one year

                      People who have ever had breast cancer or have a strong family history of breast cancer shouldn't use medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) or other hormonal birth controls. This is because there's a chance that the cancer might be sensitive to hormones, and receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) can cause it to grow. If you're concerned about your risk for cancer, talk to your provider. You're recommended to perform monthly breast self-exams and tell your provider about any changes you notice.

                      risk-warning

                      Ectopic pregnancy

                      Ectopic pregnancies happen when a fertilized egg implants somewhere other than your uterus. They are very rare, but can be life-threatening and sometimes need to be treated with surgery. While medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) is highly effective at preventing pregnancy overall, progestin-only contraception (including medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)) can raise your risk of ectopic pregnancies. If you experience unexplained or severe pelvic pain along with unusual vaginal bleeding, let your provider know. If you do become pregnant within 3 months of your last dose of medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), contact your provider right away so they can check to make sure it is not an ectopic pregnancy.

                      risk-warning

                      Irregular periods

                      Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) often causes irregular menstrual periods. Most people who experience this will have very light or no periods, but some will have heavy periods. If you are having very heavy bleeding or longer periods than normal, talk to your provider. If you have not gotten a period between doses, your provider will have you do a pregnancy test before you receive your next injection.

                      risk-warning

                      Serious allergic and injection-site reactions

                      Severe allergic reactions to medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) are possible, including life-threatening problems like anaphylaxis (closing of the throat). Call 911 if this happens. If you notice hives, a rash, swelling of the lips or tongue, or difficulty breathing after receiving your dose of medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), call your healthcare provider right away.

                      Injection-site reactions, such as skin changes, lump under the skin, or pain, are also possible. These reactions should get better after 1 to 2 days. But if they get worse or don't improve, talk with your provider.

                      risk-warning

                      Bloating and weight gain

                      People who received medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) reported weight gain. On average, they gained about 5 pounds after receiving this medication for a year, and close to 17 pounds after 6 years. If you're concerned about weight gain from medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), talk with your provider.

                      People who received medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) also reported bloating from fluids, which might contribute to weight gain. Talk with your provider if you've a condition that might worsen from fluid build-up, such as heart failure or kidney problems.

                      risk-warning

                      Slower return to fertility (after stopping medication)

                      If you want to become pregnant and choose to stop medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), it might take a while for your fertility to return. Research shows that while many people became pregnant within the first year of stopping medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera), it took 2 years or longer for others to conceive. If you're concerned about fertility issues, talk with your provider before starting medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera).

                      risk-warning

                      Risk of seizures

                      Some people have developed seizures while receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). It's unclear whether the seizures were caused by medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) or other conditions. If you've experienced seizures in the past, talk with your provider before starting medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera).

                      risk-warning

                      Liver problems

                      Let your provider know right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems while receiving medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). These can include stomach pain, tiredness, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, and clay-colored stool. They'll likely ask you to stop medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) treatment and check your liver labs through blood tests. You might be able to restart medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) if your provider confirms your labs are back within a safe range and the liver problems aren't caused by this medication.

                      dosage

                      Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) dosage forms

                      The average cost for 1 syringe of 1ml of 150mg/ml of Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) is $62.90 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 67.37% off the average retail price of $192.77.
                      syringe
                      Syringe
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      1ml of 150mg/ml1 syringe$62.90$62.90
                      vial
                      Vial
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      1ml of 150mg/ml1 vial$60.56$60.56
                      2.5ml of 400mg/ml1 vial$618.08$618.08

                      Typical dosing for Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)

                      Medroxyprogesterone must be injected by a healthcare provider, typically in a clinic setting.

                      Depo-Provera vial and pre-filled syringe

                      • To prevent pregnancy: The typical dose is to inject 150 mg into the muscle (intramuscularly) once every 3 months (13 weeks).

                      Depo-SubQ Provera 104 pre-filled syringe

                      • To prevent pregnancy and pain from endometriosis: The typical dose is 104 mg injected under the skin (subcutaneously) once every 12 to 14 weeks.

                      interactions

                      Interactions between Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) and other drugs

                      Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                      Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are receiving this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      drug-cost

                      How much does Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) cost?

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                      Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) (generic)
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                      contraindications-icon

                      Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) contraindications

                      Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) will not be safe for you to take.
                      • Currently pregnant (or suspected pregnancy)

                      • History of blood clots or conditions related to clots, such as stroke, heart attack, etc.

                      • Known or suspected breast cancer

                      • Serious liver problems

                      • Vaginal bleeding where the cause hasn't yet been diagnosed

                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)
                      Used for:
                      $58.90 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Used for:
                      • To prevent pregnancy

                      Used for:
                      latest news

                      What is the latest news about Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)?

                      images

                      Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) images

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                      This medicine is White Syringe.white - Medroxyprogesterone Acetate 150mg / mL Suspension for Injection
                      white - Medroxyprogesterone Acetate 150mg / mL Suspension for Injection
                      This medicine is White Syringe.white - Medroxyprogesterone Acetate 150mg / mL Suspension for Injection
                      This medicine is Colorless Syringe.

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                      References

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