PROVERA (MEDROXYPROGESTERONE)

Provera Description

If you have been diagnosed with secondary amenorrhea, the absence of menstruation, your doctor may prescribe a man-made form of progesterone called Provera. Hormonal imbalance is the most common reason for this condition and could be a result of pituitary gland tumors, overactive thyroid, low estrogen levels; even certain medications can cause secondary amenorrhea.

How Provera Helps with Menstruation Problems

Provera contains a man-made form of progesterone, a female sex hormone that can help with various menstrual conditions. By mimicking the actions of your own progesterone, Provera or generic Medroxyprogesterone can help restore your natural hormone levels which could straighten out irregular, or help you with endometriosis. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Provera

Endometriosis occurs when tissue that resembles the lining of your womb begins growing abnormally around your ovaries, womb, and bladder. The same hormones that control your menstrual cycle also control this tissue that will thicken and shed the same way as your normal womb lining would.

Taking Provera will help reduce the amount of endometrial tissue or it may shrink to nothing altogether. Many women do not experience pain with endometriosis, but some may have pain during sex, going to the bathroom, or ongoing pelvic and lower back pain.

Before You Take Provera

Smoking while using Provera is not recommended as this can cause an increased risk of serious problems, including blood clots, strokes and heart attacks that may occur if you smoke while taking this medication. Discuss your medical history with your doctor so it can be determined if Provera is the best drug for your situation.

Important Information About Provera

Be certain that you are not pregnant before starting on Provera. Tell your doctor about all OTC and Rx medicine you currently take or use and include herbal preparations and dietary or vitamin supplements. Other medications could interact negatively with Provera or generic Medroxyprogesterone and cause unintended side effects or change their efficacy.

Possible Side Effects of Provera

• Menstrual changes
• Abdominal or stomach discomfort
• Breast pain
• Changes in weight
• Bloating
• Sleep problems