How do medroxyprogesterone tablets work?
Medroxyprogesterone works in the same way as the hormone progesterone that's made naturally in the body, but has a stronger effect.
If you take it for conditions such as period problems, it makes the lining of the womb thinner and controls the timing of your monthly cycle. This can delay bleeding until after you stop taking the tablets. It can make periods lighter and shorter. It may also help with premenstrual symptoms.
When taken as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), it works by replacing the hormone levels that fall during and after the menopause, which helps to improve menopause symptoms.
Some treatments for prostate cancer can cause hot flushes because they reduce the amount of some hormones made by your body. Medroxyprogesterone tablets can help with hot flushes by increasing other hormone levels.
When will I feel better?
Medroxyprogesterone tablets start working straight away. You should find that your symptoms improve in the first month that you take it, but it can take 2 or 3 months to work fully.
What will happen when I stop taking medroxyprogesterone tablets?
If you're taking medroxyprogesterone for heavy periods, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or symptoms of the menopause, when you stop taking it each month, or at the end of your course of treatment, you'll usually have a period. If you do not have a period, talk to your doctor in case you might be pregnant.
If you're taking it for hot flushes caused by prostate cancer treatment, this side effect often improves after a few months. You may be able to stop taking medroxyprogesterone once your symptoms have improved, or you may need to take it for as long as you're having treatment.
Will I gain or lose weight?
Some people put on weight while taking medroxyprogesterone tablets. But as they're usually used for short courses of up to 3 months at a time, you're unlikely to gain more than a small amount of weight.
Eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercise can help you keep to a healthy weight.
Are there similar medicines to medroxyprogesterone tablets?
There are other types of progestogen tablets that are used in a similar way to medroxyprogesterone, such as norethisterone.
There are also non-hormonal treatments for heavy periods, such as tranexamic acid.
Speak to your doctor about what treatment is best for you.
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Will it affect my contraception?
Taking medroxyprogesterone tablets will affect your choice of contraceptive.
Although the tablets reduce your fertility, they're not fully effective as contraception and you could still get pregnant. You'll need to use a non-hormonal method of contraception such as condoms.
If you prefer to have a hormonal contraceptive pill, talk to your doctor, as it may be better to switch to a contraceptive pill instead of medroxyprogesterone.
Some contraceptive pills are also used to help with irregular periods and other period problems.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Medroxyprogesterone tablets can make some people feel dizzy or tired. If this happens to you, do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery until you feel better.
It's an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It's your responsibility to decide if it's safe to drive. If you're in any doubt, do not drive.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's safe for you to drive while taking medroxyprogesterone. GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.
Can I drink alcohol while taking medroxyprogesterone?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking medroxyprogesterone tablets.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking medroxyprogesterone tablets.