Medroxyprogesterone (also known as medroxyprogesterone acetate) is a type of medicine called a progestogen. Progestogens are similar to a natural hormone made in the body called progesterone.
Medroxyprogesterone works in the same way as natural progesterone, but has stronger effects.
It's used for hormonal conditions, including heavy periods, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and symptoms of the menopause. It's also sometimes used for hot flushes caused by treatments for prostate cancer.
Medroxyprogesterone tablets are only available on prescription.
Other types of medroxyprogesterone
Medroxyprogesterone also comes as an injection that's used as contraception.
It also comes mixed with another hormone called oestrogen. This is used as a type of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), for menopause symptoms.
High dose medroxyprogesterone tablets (100mg, 200mg and 400mg) are used to treat some types of cancer.
Read about medroxyprogesterone for treating cancer from Macmillan
Key facts
- Medroxyprogesterone tablets start working straight away, but they can take 2 or 3 months to work fully.
- How long you take medroxyprogesterone tablets for depends on why you're taking them. They're often used for short courses over 2 or 3 months.
- Common side effects include headaches, feeling sick (nausea) and changes to your periods.
- Medroxyprogesterone tablets do not work as contraception and you could get pregnant while taking them. It's important to use another method of contraception such as condoms.
- If medroxyprogesterone tablets make you feel dizzy or tired, do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery until you feel better.