Provera contains medroxyprogesterone which is a female hormone that helps regulate menstrual periods and ovulation. Provera is used to treat absent or irregular menstrual periods or abnormal uterine bleeding. Medroxyprogesterone is similar to the progesterone which is naturally made by your body and is prescribed when your body does not make enough of it naturally.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Provera is typically only taken for a few successive days each month.
• Follow your doctor’s directions for when to begin taking this medication.
• While taking Provera, you should self-examine your breasts on a monthly basis and have regular physical exams.
• Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of liver disease, cancer, stroke, blood clots, abnormal vaginal bleeding, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, triglycerides, severe pelvic pain, epilepsy, asthma, migraines, kidney disorder, thyroid disorder, diabetes, lupus or low levels of calcium in your blood.
• If you have a recent abortion or miscarriage.
• If you are breast-feeding.

You should also know:

• Medroxyprogesterone may cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell all of your doctors that you take this medication.
• Do not smoke while taking this medication as combined with this medication it can further increase your risk of heart attacks, blood clots, high blood pressure or stroke.
• Provera should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.

Common side effects of Provera include but are not limited to:

• Changes in your menstrual periods.
• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding.
• Vaginal discharge or itching.
• Breast tenderness or discharge.
• Premenstrual symptoms including mood changes, bloating or fluid retention.
• Headaches, dizziness, depression or nervousness.
• Bruising or swelling of the veins.
• Stomach discomfort, nausea or bloating.
• Sleep problems.
• Itching, acne, rash, loss of scalp hair or hair growth.
• Vision changes or wearing contact lenses.
• Weight gain.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of medroxyprogesterone:

• Vaginal bleeding if you have already gone through menopause.
• Lightheadedness or the feeling that you might pass out.
• Breast lumps.
• Depression symptoms including mood changes, headache, sleep problems or dizziness.
• Swelling of your hands, feet or ankles.
• Stroke symptoms including slurred speech, sudden severe headache, balance problems, vision problems or a sudden numbness or weakness especially on one side of the body.
• Blood clot symptoms including chest pain, sudden cough, coughing up blood, wheezing, rapid breathing, pain, swelling, warmth or redness in one or both legs.
• Fever.
• Heart attack symptoms including nausea, sweating, chest pain or pressure or a pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder.
• Jaundice.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Provera?

If you miss a dose of Provera, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What is the generic alternative to Provera?

Generic Provera is known as medroxyprogesterone and is available in the same 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg strengths. Only brand name Provera is available in 100mg.