Medroxyprogesterone (Intramuscular Route)

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Proper Use

To make using hormonal contraceptives as safe and reliable as possible, you should understand how and when to use them and what effects may be expected.

This medicine comes with patient information insert. Read them carefully and make sure you understand them before receiving this medicine. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.

A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine in a hospital or clinic. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles (usually in the buttocks or upper arm).

Your doctor must make sure you are not pregnant before you start treatment with this medicine. For most women, this means you must receive your first shot during the first 5 days of a normal menstrual period. You will need to receive this medicine every 3 months (12 to 14 weeks). Be sure to keep all appointments with your doctor to receive your injections.

If you plan to start this medicine after having a baby, you should receive your first shot within 5 days after your baby is born. If you plan to breastfeed your new baby, talk to your doctor about when to get your first shot. Some doctors may suggest waiting 6 weeks before getting your first shot, but others may suggest getting the shot sooner after the baby is born. If you wait 6 weeks, talk to your doctor about using an alternative form of birth control.

If you are switching from another method of birth control, carefully follow your doctor’s instructions about when to have your first injection of this medicine.

You need to have enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. Your doctor might suggest that you take supplements.

Missed Dose

Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

You must have this shot every 12 to 14 weeks to prevent pregnancy. If you do not get another shot after 14 weeks, talk with your doctor. You may need to use another form of birth control and wait until your next menstrual period before starting the shots again.

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