Medroxyprogesterone

About medroxyprogesterone

Medroxyprogesterone is a progestogen which is a female hormone. It works by replacing or supplementing naturally produced progesterone. At higher doses it can be used to help treat breast or endometrial cancer in women, and kidney cancer in both men and women.

Before taking medroxyprogesterone

Before taking medroxyprogesterone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from breast or endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the womb).
• If you suffer from liver, kidney or heart problems.
• If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder) or migraine.
• If you suffer from depression or thrombosis, or have a history of these conditions.
• If you suffer from diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) or have a family history of this condition.
• If you suffer with asthma, epilepsy or high blood pressure.
• If you suffered during pregnancy from pruritus (severe itching), pemphigoid gestationis (a rare blistering disease) or jaundice.
• If you suffer from vaginal bleeding other than your normal monthly period.
• If you have had a blood clot of an artery (e.g. stroke or heart attack).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take medroxyprogesterone

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Your dose will depend on what you are being treated for. You may only need to take it for certain days of your menstrual cycle. Ask your doctor if you are not sure about when to take it.
• Try to take medroxyprogesterone at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is time for your next dose in which case miss out the forgotten dose. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before buying any medicines check with your pharmacist which are safe for you to take alongside medroxyprogesterone.
• If you have diabetes you should test for sugar in the blood or urine regularly to check that your diabetes is being well controlled. If there are any extreme changes talk to your doctor.
• These tablets are not for preventing pregnancy. If you need contraception you should discuss this with your doctor who may suggest a combined oral contraceptive pill.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking medroxyprogesterone.
• It is best to avoid smoking and drinking too much alcohol while taking medroxyprogesterone. If you are a smoker, ask your pharmacist for advice on stopping.
• Remember to keep your regular doctor's appointments, breast screening and cervical smear tests.

Can medroxyprogesterone cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store medroxyprogesterone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines