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intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate
Medroxyprogesterone acetate is a synthetic progestin that suppresses gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and inhibits ovulation, providing long-acting contraception.
Medroxyprogesterone acetate is a synthetic progestin that suppresses gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and inhibits ovulation, providing long-acting contraception. Used for Contraception (prevention of pregnancy), Management of endometriosis-related pain.
At a glance
| Generic name | intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Depo Provera |
| Sponsor | Prince of Songkla University |
| Drug class | Progestin; hormonal contraceptive |
| Target | Progesterone receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Contraception; Reproductive Health |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
As a progestin, medroxyprogesterone acetate acts on progesterone receptors in the hypothalamus and pituitary to suppress GnRH secretion, which prevents the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge necessary for ovulation. The intramuscular depot formulation provides sustained release over 12 weeks, maintaining contraceptive efficacy through both ovulation suppression and cervical mucus thickening.
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)
- Continuation of Subcutaneous and Intramuscular Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in Post-abortion Patients (PHASE4)
- Contraceptive Hormones, Immunity, and Microbiome Evaluation
- Postpartum Family Planning (PHASE4)
- Tranexamic Acid and Depot-Medroxyprogesterone Acetate for Perimenopausal Irregular Uterine Bleeding (NA)
- Vascular Mechanisms for the Effects of Loss of Ovarian Hormone Function on Cognition in Women (NA)
- Quantification of Immune Cells in Women Using Contraception (CHIC II)
- Pilot Study of Femring Estrogen Supplementation During Depo-Provera Initiation (NA)
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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