Medroxyprogesterone is the generic name of the brand name contraceptive Depo-Provera in the United States. It is an injectable medication that requires you to visit your physician for a shot every 12 weeks, the Mayo Clinic states. Medroxyprogesterone functions by preventing ovulation or the release of eggs from your ovaries. While it works to prevent you from conceiving a child, it does not stop the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
Bone Density Loss
Taking the medroxyprogesterone injection can make you lose bone mineral density. This can make your bones weaker and more susceptible to breakage. The Mayo Clinic reports this may be temporary, but the more time you use the contraceptive, the more likely it is to become permanent. RxList.com states this type of contraceptive should only be used for less than two years unless other forms of birth control such as oral contraception do not work. Medroxyprogesterone also can put you at greater risk for osteoporosis, a degenerative bone disease.
Abdominal and Weight Side Effects
Most women who were given medroxyprogesterone in clinical studies who experienced side effects complained of discomfort and pain in the abdominal region, RxList.com states. Another common side effect of the drug is gaining weight, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Menstrual Side Effects
Medroxyprogesterone can cause problems in your menstrual cycle. It can interrupt menstruation or make your periods become irregular. You also may experience vaginal bleeding between periods.
Mental Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic reports as common side effects problems with your mental state when taking medroxyprogesterone. The drug may, for example, cause you to become depressed, meaning you may experience the symptoms of this mental illness. These symptoms may include an empty or sad feeling, hopelessness, discouragement and crying. Medroxyprogesterone also may make you nervous without apparent cause.
Body Side Effects
Taking this contraceptive may have some other side effects in your body. It can, for example, cause you to experience headaches and pain in your breasts. It can cause you to become dizzy and unbalanced. General body fatigue and weakness are also common side effects as well as having acne breakouts.
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