Depo-Provera, also known as medroxyprogesterone, is a contraceptive injection used to prevent pregnancy and treat the pain of women suffering with metastatic uterine (womb) or kidney cancer, according to Drugs.com. It works to change cervical mucus and thin the uterine lining to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. Depo-Provera is usually injected into a woman's muscles once a week or once every three months.
Severe Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Depo-Provera's severe side effects include trouble sleeping, mood changes, fever, sudden headache and swelling in the ankles, hands or feet. Users may also experience sudden weakness or numbness, visual problems, confusion and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Women should seek immediate medical help if they have any of these symptoms.
Rare Side Effects
According to RxList.com, adverse reactions were present in less than 1 percent of women taking Depo-Provera. These rare side effects include unexpected pregnancy, galactorrhea (spontaneous milk flow from breasts), melasma (darkening of the skin), convulsions, breast cancer and paralysis. Users may also experience rectal bleeding, changes in breast size, hirsutism (abnormal hair growth), osteoporosis (brittle bones) and deep vein thrombosis.
Less Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com states that Depo-Provera injections can lead to less serious side effects, including breast tenderness, headache, nervousness, skin rash and pelvic pain. Decreased libido (sex drive), acne, hair loss, vaginal itching and changes in menstrual period, weight or appetite are other less serious side effects of Depo-Provera.
