Provera (Medroxyprogesterone)

Description

Provera is a medication commonly used among women to treat various menstrual problems such as lack of menstruation and abnormal bleeding. Provera is also useful in reducing the risk of uterine cancer among women.

 

 

 

How It Works

 

Provera is a progestin hormone. Therefore, the drug works by changing the lining of the uterus. Provera is used as a substitute when your body does not produce sufficient levels of progesterone. Although it is not as effective as the real hormone, the medication is useful in treating various menstrual problems among women.

 

Uses

 

Provera is primarily used to treat menstrual difficulties experienced by women. Females who are not pregnant and those who are not going through menopause can also experience abnormal bleeding during their menstrual period.

 

This drug is consumed to stop this abnormal bleeding and to restore the period into a normal level. It is also helpful to influence a normal menstrual pattern among women who have not had their periods in months. When used with a combination of other drugs, this drug is also useful in treating menopause symptoms such as hot flashes.

 

Dosage

 

Your dose will be determined by your physician. He or she will consider your current health condition and response to the treatment in order to prescribe a suitable dosage. This drug is usually consumed once a day in a daily pattern.

 

This dose schedule will be determined according to your menstrual cycle. So, make sure to clearly inform your physician about your pattern.

 

Increasing your dosage or taking the medication more times than necessary will not improve its beneficial effects.

 

Doing so can only lead to adverse side effects and a deteriorated health condition. Therefore, it is best to consult your physician before you make any alterations to the schedule. Even the slightest of changes must be clarified with the physician in order to avoid any unnecessary complications.

 

Side Effects

 

Listed below are some side effects of this drug that you need to look out for.

 

 Acne
 Breast pain
 Bulging eyes
 Lumps
 Abnormal vaginal bleeding
 Sudden loss of coordination
 Shortness of breath
 Severe stomach pain
 Persistent headaches

 

In the event of these side effects, do not hesitate to inform your physician.

 

Precautions

 

Follow the safety regulations given below in order to protect yourself from the above side effects of this drug.

 

 If you are a senior citizen, use Provera with caution since you are more sensitive to the side effects of this medication.

 

 Examine your breasts on a monthly basis to identify any developments of lumps.

 

 The effectiveness of this medication on children has not been confirmed. Thus, use this medication with extreme caution among children.

 

 Provera can influence your blood sugar level. If you are diabetic patient, follow your blood sugar level closely.

 

 Do not consume this medication during the period of pregnancy or breastfeeding.

 

Self-Care

 

The use of Provera can result in extreme dizziness and drowsiness. These effect can worsen under the influence of alcohol. Thus, abstain from alcohol use during the treatment period. You must not operate any machinery or drive on your own either.

 

Consumption of Provera can create dark patches on your skin. Exposure to the sun can make these skin patches darker. Thus, it is best to stay indoors during the treatment period.