Depo-Provera contains medroxyprogesterone acetate 150mg/ml, a synthetic progesterone used as a contraceptive, to treat endometriosis, various oestrogen-related cancers and to promote breast development in male to female transsexuals.
Presented as a single use, pre-filled disposable syringe, Depo-Provera provides contraceptive cover for up to three months. Injection doses may be repeated every three months to provide long term protection against pregnancy or may be used as a one-off short-term treatment.
Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring female hormone, progesterone, and acts in a similar fashion except that it is more potent. Depo-Provera works by suppressing ovulation, preventing the thinning of cervical mucus and by inhibiting the growth of the endometrium.