Buy Provera
Provera

0.63
A progestogen medication used to treat various menstrual disorders and hormone imbalances.


Availability
In Stock
Delivery
Airmail (14-21 days) | EMS trackable (5-9 days)
Product is shipped in a fully discreet envelope with no content disclosure, including all required documentation inside

Product Sheet

Active Ingredient(s)
Medroxyprogesterone
Primary Category
Hormone Therapy
Therapeutic Class
Genito-Urinary System, Sex Hormones, Progestogens
Pharmacological Class
Progestogens
Indications
Endometriosis, Delayed or irregular periods, Heavy bleeding, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Contraindications
History of blood clots, History of breast cancer, Severe liver disease, Porphyria
Minor Side Effects
Nausea, Dizziness, Headache
Moderate Side Effects
Weight changes, Tiredness, Sleep disturbances, Breast tenderness
Serious Side Effects
Deep vein thrombosis, Stroke, Severe allergic reaction, Depression
Dosage Forms
Tablet
Administration Route
Oral
Mechanism of Action
Provera is a synthetic form of the female hormone progesterone. It works by altering the lining of the womb to stop it from growing too thick and by regulating the shedding of the lining, which helps to manage periods and treat conditions like endometriosis.
Prescription Status
Rx
Manufacturer
Pfizer
Patient Summary
A progestogen medication used to treat various menstrual disorders and hormone imbalances.
Onset Time
Starts working within a few hours
Duration
12-24 hours depending on dose
Storage Instructions
Store below 25°C in a dry place.
Drug Interactions
Aminoglutethimide, Rifampicin, Warfarin, Ciclosporin
Age Restrictions
Adult women
Pregnancy Use
Not recommended during pregnancy unless specific medical reasons apply.
Alternative Drugs
Utovlan, Norethisterone

What is Provera?

Provera is a brand name for tablets that contain medroxyprogesterone as the active ingredient. It belongs to the women’s health therapeutic category and is formulated as a pill available in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths. In Hong Kong the product is classified as a prescription-only medication and is regulated by the Department of Health. Provera is historically marketed by Pfizer and is prescribed for a range of menstrual and hormonal disorders.

How Provera Works in the Body

Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic analogue of the natural hormone progesterone. After oral ingestion, the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream and binds to progesterone receptors in the uterus, breast, and other target tissues.

  • Receptor activation leads to changes in the endometrial lining, promoting secretory transformation and stabilising the lining against estrogen-driven proliferation.
  • Inhibition of ovulation can occur at higher doses, contributing to its use in certain contraceptive protocols (off-label).
  • The onset of action typically begins within a few hours, with peak plasma concentrations reached in 2-4 hours. The drug’s half-life is approximately 12 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.

Conditions Treated by Provera

Provera is approved by regulatory agencies for several indications within women’s health:

  • Secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods despite normal hormonal function).
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding caused by hormonal imbalance.
  • Endometriosis - to reduce ectopic endometrial tissue activity.
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in postmenopausal women when combined with estrogen.

These uses are based on clinical data reviewed by the Hong Kong Department of Health and align with international labeling.

Evidence-Based Off-Label Uses

Off-Label Uses Supported by Clinical Evidence

  • Induction of withdrawal bleeding prior to intrauterine procedures or diagnostic hysteroscopy. Small clinical series have shown that a short course of medroxyprogesterone (10 mg daily for 10 days) reliably induces a withdrawal bleed.
  • Management of early pregnancy loss in certain protocols, used to facilitate uterine evacuation when surgical options are not preferred. This application is not approved by regulatory agencies and must be overseen by a qualified obstetrician.

Disclaimer: Off-label use requires individualized medical supervision and a risk-benefit assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Who Should (Not) Use Provera?

Absolute Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to medroxyprogesterone or any tablet excipient.
  • Active or history of thromboembolic disorders (deep-vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism).
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding of unknown cause.
  • Pregnancy - medroxyprogesterone is not indicated for termination or maintenance of pregnancy.

Relative Contraindications

  • Severe liver disease (elevated transaminases).
  • Uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes mellitus.
  • Current or recent (within 6 weeks) use of hormonal contraceptives containing estrogen.

Special Populations

  • Pregnancy & lactation: Use is contraindicated during pregnancy. Limited data exist for breastfeeding; the drug does pass into milk, so use is generally avoided.
  • Elderly: Dose adjustment may be required for reduced renal or hepatic function.
  • Adolescents: Use only when clearly indicated and after specialist review.

Safety Profile: Side Effects and Interactions

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea or abdominal discomfort - usually transient.
  • Weight gain or fluid retention - reported in up to a few percent of patients.
  • Mood changes such as mild depression or irritability.
  • Breast tenderness - often resolves with continued therapy.

Serious Adverse Events

  • Thromboembolic events (deep-vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism) - rare but potentially life-threatening.
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, angioedema, anaphylaxis).
  • Liver dysfunction - indicated by jaundice or markedly elevated liver enzymes. Immediate medical attention is required.

Drug Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine) may lower medroxyprogesterone concentrations, reducing efficacy.
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) can increase drug levels, heightening side-effect risk.
  • Concomitant anticoagulants (warfarin) may have an additive effect on clotting risk; monitoring is advised.
  • Hormonal contraceptives containing estrogen may increase the risk of thrombosis when combined with medroxyprogesterone.

Food and Lifestyle Interactions

  • No specific food restrictions, but the tablet should be taken with a full glass of water.
  • Alcohol in excess may exacerbate liver stress; moderation is recommended.
  • Operating heavy machinery is generally safe, though dizziness can occur in a minority of patients.

If you are taking other medications, supplements, or herbal products, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting Provera.

How to Take Provera

  • Standard dosing depends on the indication:
  • For secondary amenorrhea or abnormal uterine bleeding, 5 mg to 10 mg daily for 10-14 days is common, followed by a drug-free interval.
  • For endometriosis, a typical regimen is 10 mg daily for 10 days each month, repeated for several cycles.
  • Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water; it may be taken with or without food.
  • Missed dose: Take the missed tablet as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time of the next dose-do not double-dose.
  • Overdose: Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, or menstrual irregularities. Seek immediate medical attention; supportive care is the mainstay of treatment.
  • Discontinuation: Some indications require a tapering schedule to avoid abrupt hormonal withdrawal; follow your prescriber’s instructions.

Note: The exact regimen must be individualized by a qualified healthcare professional based on your medical history and treatment goals.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Baseline assessment should include blood pressure, liver function tests, and, if indicated, coagulation profiles.
  • Follow-up visits after the first treatment cycle are recommended to assess therapeutic response and side-effects.
  • For long-term use, periodic evaluation of lipid profiles and glucose tolerance may be prudent, especially in patients with cardiovascular risk factors.

Storage and Handling

  • Store Provera tablets at room temperature (20-25 °C), away from excess moisture and direct sunlight.
  • Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children.
  • Do not use the medication after the printed expiry date. Dispose of unused tablets according to local pharmacy take-back programs or household waste guidelines.

Medication-Specific Glossary

Progesterone Receptor
A cellular protein that binds progesterone or its synthetic analogues, triggering downstream effects on the uterine lining and other target tissues.
Endometrial Decidualization
The transformation of the uterine lining under progesterone influence, preparing it for potential implantation.
Thromboembolism
The formation of a blood clot that can travel through the bloodstream and block a vessel, a serious risk associated with certain hormonal therapies.

Medical Disclaimer

This article provides educational information about Provera and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.

Provera FAQ

Can Provera be used as a contraceptive?

Medroxyprogesterone can suppress ovulation at higher doses, but the oral tablet formulation is not approved for routine contraception. Off-label contraceptive use is occasionally reported under specialist supervision, but reliable birth-control methods should be chosen from products that carry explicit contraceptive labeling.

What should I do if I experience heavy vaginal bleeding while taking Provera?

Heavy or prolonged bleeding may indicate a serious adverse event such as endometrial hyperplasia or a coagulation problem. Contact your healthcare provider promptly for assessment; emergency care is warranted if bleeding is rapid or accompanied by dizziness.

How long does it take for menstrual cycles to normalize after a Provera course?

Most patients notice cycle regulation within one to two menstrual cycles after completing a standard 10-day regimen. Individual response varies, and persistent irregularities should be evaluated by a clinician.

Is it safe to take Provera while on antihypertensive medication?

Provera does not directly affect blood pressure, but it can cause fluid retention in some individuals. Regular blood pressure monitoring is advisable, and any significant changes should be discussed with your prescriber.

Can I travel internationally with Provera tablets?

Yes, provided you carry the medication in its original packaging with the prescription label. Some countries may require a doctor’s note; verify travel regulations for Hong Kong residents before departure.

Will Provera affect the results of hormone-based medical tests?

Because medroxyprogesterone alters progesterone levels, it can interfere with assays that measure endogenous hormone concentrations. Inform the laboratory of your medication use to interpret results accurately.

What are the inactive ingredients in Provera tablets?

Common excipients include lactose, magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose. Patients with lactose intolerance or hypersensitivity to these components should discuss alternatives with their pharmacist.

Is Provera safe for women with a history of breast cancer?

Progesterone analogues may stimulate hormone-sensitive breast tissue. Women with a personal or family history of estrogen- or progesterone-receptor-positive breast cancer should avoid Provera unless a specialist explicitly recommends it.

How should I dispose of unused Provera tablets?

Do not flush tablets down the toilet. Return them to a pharmacy take-back program or follow Hong Kong’s household waste disposal guidelines for medicines, placing tablets in a sealed container before discarding.

Does Provera interact with herbal supplements such as St. John’s wort?

St. John’s wort induces CYP3A4 enzymes, potentially reducing medroxyprogesterone levels and diminishing therapeutic effect. Discuss any herbal or over-the-counter products with your healthcare provider before starting Provera.

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