Provera dosage: what it is and common ways it's used

Provera is the brand name for medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progesterone used for several gynecologic issues. You’ll see it as oral tablets (2.5, 5, 10 mg) and as injections (Depo‑Provera IM or Depo‑SubQ). Dosage depends on why you’re taking it—bleeding control, missing periods, hormone therapy, or contraception.

Common oral regimens

For abnormal uterine bleeding or to induce a period, doctors commonly use 5–10 mg daily for 5–10 days. For secondary amenorrhea (missed periods), a similar 5–10 mg daily course for about a week is typical to trigger bleeding. When used with estrogen in menopausal hormone therapy, Provera is often given 5–10 mg daily for about 10–14 days each month to protect the lining of the uterus.

In conditions like endometrial hyperplasia or endometriosis, doses and schedules can vary more. Some prescribers use 10 mg daily for a set course or continuous lower doses across the month. Those situations need individual tailoring by your clinician.

Injection (Depo‑Provera) and practical notes

Depo‑Provera for contraception is a 150 mg intramuscular injection every 12 weeks. There’s also a subcutaneous option (104 mg) given about every 12–14 weeks. The injection prevents pregnancy differently than the pill, so you can’t swap one schedule for the other without medical advice.

Take oral Provera at about the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food. If you miss one tablet, take it as soon as you remember. If you miss more than one, or if you’re using it for contraception, call your provider for next steps—missed doses can change effectiveness depending on the reason you’re on the drug.

Common side effects include irregular spotting or bleeding, weight changes, mood swings, breast tenderness, and headaches. With Depo‑Provera injections, long‑term use may reduce bone mineral density; doctors often discuss duration and alternatives for younger patients.

Certain health conditions make Provera a poor choice. Tell your provider if you have a history of blood clots, stroke, active liver disease, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or hormone‑sensitive cancer. If you become pregnant, stop taking Provera and contact your clinician.

Drug interactions matter. Some enzyme‑inducing drugs (like certain anti-seizure meds or rifampin) can lower Provera levels and reduce effectiveness. Always list all medicines, herbal supplements, and recreational drugs when you talk to your prescriber.

Call your doctor or get urgent care if you have heavy unusual bleeding, signs of a blood clot (leg pain/swelling, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain), severe abdominal pain, jaundice, or big mood or vision changes. For exact dosing tied to your medical history, speak with your doctor or pharmacist—this page is a practical overview, not personal medical advice.