Provera (medroxyprogesterone) — what it does and how to use it

Provera is a type of progestin (medroxyprogesterone) doctors use for several menstrual and hormone issues. You’ll see it prescribed for abnormal uterine bleeding, to trigger a period in cases of missed cycles, as part of some hormone therapy plans, and sometimes to help with endometriosis symptoms. There’s also a long-acting injectable form (Depo‑Provera) for contraception — that’s a different product but the same active hormone family.

If you’re reading about Provera because of a symptom or a prescription, this quick guide gives the basics: common doses, what to expect, key risks, and practical tips for safe use.

Typical doses and how it’s taken

Oral Provera usually comes in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg tablets. Common patterns include:

• To induce a period (secondary amenorrhea): often 10 mg once daily for 5–10 days.
• For abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance: 5–10 mg daily for 5–10 days, depending on the doctor’s plan.
• For endometriosis or other long-term uses: dosing varies — follow your clinician’s instructions closely.

Side effects, warnings and monitoring

Common side effects are spotting or irregular bleeding, mood changes, headaches, breast tenderness, and weight changes. If you get the injection long term, bone mineral density can decrease — doctors usually recommend limiting long-term use or watching bone health.

Pay attention to these warnings: Provera can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart problems, especially if you smoke and are over 35 or have a history of clotting disorders. It’s not the right choice if you have active liver disease or known hormone-sensitive cancer. If you’re pregnant or suspect pregnancy, don’t take Provera until a clinician confirms it’s safe.

Tell your doctor about other medicines you take. Some drugs that speed up liver enzymes (rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and herbal remedies like St. John’s wort) can lower Provera’s effect. Your clinician may change the dose or suggest a different option.

Before and during treatment your doctor may check blood pressure, discuss smoking cessation if needed, and consider bone health monitoring for long-term injectable use. Report sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, severe leg pain, or unusual vaginal bleeding right away.

If you’re exploring alternatives, options include other progestins, a levonorgestrel IUD (Mirena), combined oral contraceptives, or non-hormonal approaches depending on the problem being treated. Talk to your clinician for a plan that fits your goals and health history.

Buying Provera: get it from a licensed pharmacy with a prescription. Avoid sites that sell without prescription or offer suspiciously low prices. Look for a real pharmacist contact, secure checkout, and pharmacy licensing information. If you’re unsure, ask your prescriber where to fill the script safely.

Questions for your clinician: Why am I being prescribed Provera? What exact dose and schedule should I follow? What side effects should I expect and when should I call? These three questions will keep the conversation practical and safe.