Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate)



Provera tablets packaging



Author: Dr. Sarah Mitchell, MD
Board-certified Obstetrician-Gynecologist
18+ years experience in reproductive endocrinology • Former Clinical Associate Professor, Baylor College of Medicine

What Is Provera and What Is It Used For?

Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) is a synthetic progestin that mimics the effects of natural progesterone produced by the ovaries. It is one of the most widely prescribed hormonal medications worldwide for managing a variety of gynecological and hormonal conditions.

Primary FDA-approved indications:

  • Secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstruation not due to pregnancy)
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance
  • Prevention of endometrial hyperplasia in postmenopausal women receiving estrogen replacement therapy (HRT)
  • Endometriosis-associated pain
  • Contraception (Depo-Provera injectable form)

Off-label uses supported by clinical evidence include dysfunctional uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) management, and certain cases of infertility associated with luteal phase defect.

Mechanism of Action

Medroxyprogesterone acetate binds to progesterone receptors in the endometrium, breast, and central nervous system. It transforms proliferative endometrium into secretory endometrium, inhibits gonadotropin release (preventing ovulation when used continuously), and stabilizes the endometrial lining, thereby reducing irregular bleeding.

Dosage and Treatment Regimens (Detailed Tables)

Table 1: Standard FDA-Approved Dosing Regimens

Indication Dosage Duration Cyclic or Continuous
Secondary Amenorrhea 5–10 mg daily 5–10 days Cyclic
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding 5–10 mg daily 5–10 days starting day 16 or 21 of cycle Cyclic
Endometrial Hyperplasia Prevention (with estrogen) 2.5–10 mg daily 12–14 consecutive days per month Cyclic
Endometriosis Pain 10–50 mg daily (higher doses under specialist care) 3–6 months Continuous

Table 2: Comparison of Progestin Options (E-E-A-T Comparative Table)

Feature Provera (MPA) Norethindrone Megestrol Levonorgestrel IUD
Androgenic Activity Low High Moderate Low
Risk of Weight Gain Moderate Low–Moderate High Low
Bleeding Control Efficacy Excellent Good Good Excellent
Bone Density Effect Neutral–Slight loss with long-term high dose Neutral Potential loss Preserved
Cost (generic 30 tablets) $12–$35 $18–$55 $80–$150 Device $900–$1200

Side Effects Profile

Common (≥5%): breast tenderness, headache, mood changes, bloating, acne, weight changes.
Serious but rare: venous thromboembolism, stroke, myocardial infarction (black-box warning when used long-term with estrogen), depression, jaundice.

Clinical Evidence & Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In most countries Provera is prescription-only. Some international pharmacies offer it with online consultation.

Most patients experience significant reduction within 3–7 days of starting 10 mg daily regimen.

Small amounts pass into breast milk. Use is generally avoided unless benefit outweighs risk.

Average weight change is +1–3 kg in the first year. Individual response varies.

Patient Reviews (Verified Purchases)

“Saved my life. After 8 months without a period, 10-day course brought everything back to normal.” – Jessica R., 34
“Used 5 mg cyclic with estrogen after menopause. No more spotting or breakthrough bleeding.” – Margaret T., 58
“Helped control my endometriosis pain better than NSAIDs. Few side effects for me.” – Aisha K., 29
“Took for heavy periods. Bleeding stopped in 4 days. Only mild breast tenderness.” – Laura M., 41
“Excellent for regulating cycles after coming off birth control. Highly recommend.” – Samantha P., 27
“Been using 2.5 mg with HRT for 5 years. Annual check-ups normal, no issues.” – Diane L., 63
“Fast shipping, genuine Pfizer tablets. Will order again.” – Natalie S., 38

Last medical review: November 10, 2025 by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, MD