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Depo Medroxyprogesterone acetate
Depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a synthetic progestin that prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.
Depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a synthetic progestin that prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. Used for Contraception (prevention of pregnancy), Management of endometriosis-related pain.
At a glance
| Generic name | Depo Medroxyprogesterone acetate |
|---|---|
| Also known as | DMPA, Injectable contraception, Depo Provera |
| Sponsor | University of California, San Diego |
| Drug class | Progestin; Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) |
| Target | Progesterone receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Contraception; Reproductive Health |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
DMPA acts as a long-acting reversible contraceptive by binding to progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, inhibiting the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge required for ovulation. It also alters the endometrium and increases cervical mucus viscosity, creating a hostile environment for sperm. The intramuscular or subcutaneous formulation provides contraceptive efficacy for approximately 12-13 weeks per injection.
Approved indications
- Contraception (prevention of pregnancy)
- Management of endometriosis-related pain
Common side effects
- Irregular bleeding or amenorrhea
- Weight gain
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Delayed return to fertility
Key clinical trials
- Clinical and Biomarker Effects of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in Females With Sickle Cell Disease (PHASE4)
- Counseling Among Gender Diverse Adolescents Who Use Depot Medroxyprogesterone (PHASE4)
- Measuring Lactation Initiation After Early Postpartum Injectable Progestin (DMPA) Use Among Women in Dhanusha District of Nepal: A Pilot Study (PHASE4)
- Kuwa Free! - Live Free! (NA)
- Evaluation of Pharmacokinetic Drug-drug Interactions Between Hormonal Contraceptives and Doravirine-containing ART Among Women Living With HIV in South Africa (PHASE4)
- Endometrial Biopsy in Progestin Contraceptive Users (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Quick Start of Highly Effective Contraception
- Comparing the Safety and Efficacy in the Use of Hormonal Therapy on Endometriosis Patients After Conservative Surgery (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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