Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate

WHAT IS IT?

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a progesterone medication that works to inhibit the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone from eh hypothalamus, and suppress ovulation.

WHEN DO WE USE IT?

Birth control: this medication can be used to prevent pregnancy. It is often used right after a patient delivers a child as a means of birth control.

WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?
HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?

Intramuscular injection every 3 months

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?

Menstrual irregularities: 

  • Prolonged vaginal bleeding/spotting
  • Amenorrhea (common after 1 year of usage)

Side effects mimicking pregnancy: weigh gain, nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness.

ANYTHING ELSE TO KEEP IN MIND?
FURTHER READING

DynaMed

UpToDate

 

Page Updated: 10.10.2016