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Provera

Generic name: medroxyprogesterone (oral) [ me-DROX-ee-proe-JES-ter-one ]
Drug classes: Contraceptives, Hormones / antineoplastics, Progestins

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 15, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Provera?

Provera is a form of progesterone (a hormone) that is used to treat conditions such as absent or irregular menstrual periods, or abnormal uterine bleeding.

Provera is also used to decrease the risk of endometrial hyperplasia (a condition that may lead to uterine cancer) while taking estrogens.

Provera may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Provera side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Provera may cause serious side effects. Stop using Provera and call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of Provera may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Provera should not be used to prevent heart disease, stroke, or dementia. This medicine may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

Long-term use of medroxyprogesterone may increase your risk of cancer of the breast, uterus, or ovaries. Talk with your doctor about this risk.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Provera if you are allergic to Provera, or if you have:

May cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

Provera should not be used to prevent heart disease, stroke, or dementia. This medicine may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Using this medicine can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, if you are overweight, or if you smoke.

Long-term use of medroxyprogesterone may increase your risk of cancer of the breast, uterus, or ovaries. Talk with your doctor about this risk.

Do not breastfeed.

How should I take Provera?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Provera is usually given for only a few days in a row each month.

Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using Provera.

If you need major surgery or will be on long-term bed rest, you may need to stop using this medicine for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are using Provera.

This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Provera.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Provera?

Avoid smoking while you are taking Provera. Smoking greatly increases your risk of blood clots.

What other drugs will affect Provera?

Other drugs may affect Provera, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Frequently asked questions

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.