Medroxyprogesterone Acetate
Also known as: Provera, Depo-Provera, depo-subQ provera 104
> **Important:** This medication carries significant risks and is typically only used when safer alternative treatments have failed. * **Monitor closely** for increased thirst, increased urination, or increased appetite. These can be early signs of **diabetes mellitus**, a serious potential side effect. * Watch for any changes in the mammary glands, such as swelling, lumps, or milk production. * In intact (unspayed) females, monitor for signs of a severe uterine infection (**pyometra**), which may include lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite, or vaginal discharge. Seek veterinary care immediately if these occur. * If given by injection under the skin, it may cause permanent hair loss, skin thinning, or color changes at the injection site. * Your pet may experience personality changes, lethargy, or weight gain while on this medication.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Behavioral disorders (reduce marking in neutered males)
- Feline psychogenic alopecia and dermatitis
- Progestagen-responsive dermatitis
- Recurrent abortion secondary to progesterone-deficiency
- Long-term reproductive control
- Long-term reproductive control
- Management of spring transition, prevention of estrus behavior, induction of estrous cycle synchrony, pregnancy maintenance, modification of stallion behavior
- Antipruritic and to suppress ovulation
- Apparent luteal insufficiency in bitches
- Long-term reproductive control
- Adjunctive treatment of aggressive behaviors
- Young German shepherd dwarfs
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Increased thirst (polydipsia) and urination (polyuria)
- Increased appetite (polyphagia) and weight gain
- Depression, lethargy, and personality changes
- Adrenocortical depression (HPA axis suppression)
- Mammary changes (enlargement, milk production, neoplasia)
- Diabetes mellitus
- Pyometra / Cystic endometrial hyperplasia
- Temporary inhibition of spermatogenesis
- Permanent local alopecia, skin atrophy, and depigmentation (with SC injection)
- Acromegaly (in dogs)
Cautions & contraindications
- Pre-pubescent cats or dogs
- Diabetes mellitus
- Pseudopregnant bitches
- Females in diestrus or with prolonged heat
- Uterine hemorrhage or discharge
- Pregnancy (unless specifically treating hypoluteoidism)
- Progestagen therapy can cause serious adverse effects; safer alternative treatments should be considered first. Do not use prior to puberty as severe mammary hypertrophy or subclinical uterine/endocrine conditions may result. Because this drug can suppress adrenal function, exogenous steroids may be needed during times of stress (e.g., surgery, trauma). Prior to reproductive use, perform a thorough history, physical exam, mammary palpation, and vaginal smear to rule out diestrus, estrus, or mammary nodules.
Drug interactions
- Aminoglutethimide: May decrease medroxyprogesterone effects
- Felbamate: May increase medroxyprogesterone metabolism
- Rifampin: May decrease progestin activity due to microsomal enzyme induction and increased progestin metabolism
Frequently asked questions
What is Medroxyprogesterone Acetate used for in pets?
> **Important:** This medication carries significant risks and is typically only used when safer alternative treatments have failed. * **Monitor closely** for increased thirst, increased urination, or increased appetite. These can be early signs of **diabetes mellitus**, a serious potential side effect. * Watch for any changes in the mammary glands, such as swelling, lumps, or milk production. * In intact (unspayed) females, monitor for signs of a severe uterine infection (**pyometra**), which may include lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite, or vaginal discharge. Seek veterinary care immediately if these occur. * If given by injection under the skin, it may cause permanent hair loss, skin thinning, or color changes at the injection site. * Your pet may experience personality changes, lethargy, or weight gain while on this medication.
Is Medroxyprogesterone Acetate safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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