Parenteral Manual

MedroxyPROGESTERone acetate

Disclaimer: Official controlled document is the CHEO online copy. It is the responsibility of user to ensure that any paper copy version is the same as the online version before use.

Alternate Name(s): 
DEPO-PROVERA®
Classification: 
Progestin
Original Date: 
August 2005
Indications: 
  • Endometriosis in non-pregnant women
  • Adjunctive and/or palliative treatment of recurrent and/or metastatic (advanced, inoperable) endometrial carcinoma
  • Secondary amenorrhea or abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance
Reconstitution and Stability: 
  • Store at room temperature
  • Shake vial well immediately before use
  • Protect from freezing
Compatibility: 
  • Solutions Compatible: no information
  • Additives/Above Cassette Compatible: no information
  • Y-site Compatible: no information

Incompatible: DO NOT MIX with other drugs

Administration: 

(For approved routes of administration by nursing personnel, refer to Policy for the Administration of Intravenous Medications.)

SC NO
IM YES, in upper arm or buttock
IV Direct NO
IV Intermittent Infusion NO
IV Continuous Infusion NO
Dosage: 

(For neonatal dosages, refer to Neonatal IV Drug Manual.)

Adolescent/Adult:
- Endometriosis:

  • 50 mg weekly or 100 mg  IM every two weeks for at least six months

- Endometrial carcinoma:

  • 400-1000 mg IM weekly initially
  • 400 mg IM per month if maintenance                                              
Potential hazards of parenteral administration: 
  • Anaphylaxis (rare), hypersensitivity reactions
  • Pain at site of injection, (rarely: residual lump, change in colour of skin, sterile abscess formation)
  • Thromboembolic phenomena:  thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, retinal thrombosis
  • Edema
  • Breakthrough bleeding, spotting, breast tenderness, amenorrhea, weight gain or loss
  • Decrease in glucose tolerance- observe diabetic patients closely
Notes: 
  • Contraindicated in cases of thromboembolic disorders, cerebral apoplexy, undiagnosed vaginal or urinary tract bleeding, liver disease, pregnancy
  • Exercise caution in patients with mental depression, epilepsy, migraine, asthma, cardiac or renal dysfunction
  • High doses used in treatment of carcinoma may produce cushingoid symptoms
  • Liver and endocrine function tests may be affected up to 4 months after discontinuation of drug 

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