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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
Page Updated: 10.10.2016