DEPO-PROVERA®

DEPO-PROVERA® is a long-acting injectable contraceptive containing medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the natural hormone progesterone. It is primarily used for birth control, but also indicated for endometriosis management and as part of the treatment of certain cancers, including breast, kidney, and endometrial cancers. DEPO-PROVERA works by suppressing ovulation and altering the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy. For cancer and endometriosis, it helps inhibit the growth of hormone-responsive cells. It is administered via deep intramuscular injection and provides contraceptive protection for up to three months per dose. DEPO-PROVERA is a prescription-only medicine.

DEPO-PROVERA is administered as an intramuscular injection, typically into the gluteal muscle, by a healthcare professional.

Key Features:

• Long-acting injectable contraceptive
  
• Also used in hormone-sensitive cancers and endometriosis
  

Protocols:

• Contraception: 150 mg every 3 months
  
  • First injection: within 5 days of menstruation or post-birth guidelines
    
• Endometriosis: 50 mg weekly or 100 mg every 2 weeks
  
• Breast cancer: 500 mg daily for 4 weeks, then 500–1000 mg weekly
  
• Other cancers: Initial 600–1200 mg weekly, then 450–600 mg every 1–4 weeks

Indications:

• Contraception
  
• Endometriosis
  
• Hormone-responsive cancers (breast, kidney, endometrial)
  

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy
  
• Known/suspected breast cancer
  
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
  
• Severe liver disease
  
• Stroke or thromboembolic disorders
  
• Known allergy to medroxyprogesterone acetate or excipients
  

Cautions:

• May reduce bone mineral density with prolonged use
  
• Slightly increased breast cancer risk in women under 35
  
• Does not protect against STIs, including HIV

Active ingredient:

• Medroxyprogesterone acetate 150 mg/mL
  

Excipients:

• Macrogol 3350
  
• Polysorbate 80
  
• Sodium chloride
  
• Methyl hydroxybenzoate
  
• Propyl hydroxybenzoate
  
• Water for Injections

Package Contents:

• Vial containing 1 mL of a white, cloudy suspension
  
• Australian Register Number: AUST R 12300
  
• Supplied in single-dose vials

DEPO-PROVERA is generally well tolerated but may cause local or systemic side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Menstrual irregularities: spotting, heavy or no periods
  
• Weight changes
  
• Headache, dizziness, fatigue
  
• Mood changes, depression
  
• Breast tenderness
  
• Nausea, bloating
  
• Decreased libido
  
• Hair loss or excessive hair growth
  

Serious Side Effects (Seek medical attention):

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, shortness of breath)
  
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  
• Severe abdominal pain
  
• Sudden vision changes or migraine
  
• Signs of blood clots: calf pain, numbness, swelling

Storage Conditions:

• Store below 30°C
  
• Keep in a cool, dry place
  
• Do not freeze
  
• Keep away from children
  
• Discard if past expiry date