Depo-Provera

While it is an excellent birth control method, Depo-Provera does not protect you against AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases. If you are concerned about AIDS or other STDs, be sure your partner uses a condom during intercourse (or, for absolute safety, abstain from sex).

Before you start using Depo-Provera, be sure to tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has ever had breast cancer; if you have ever had any problems with your breasts; if your menstrual periods have ever been irregular or spotty; if you have kidney disease, high blood pressure, migraine headaches, asthma, epilepsy, or a history of depression; if you or anyone in your family has or has had diabetes; or if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter drugs.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Depo-Provera

All women using Depo-Provera should be sure to get adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D.

If Depo-Provera is taken with aminoglutethimide, a drug used to treat a disorder of the adrenal glands called Cushing's syndrome, it could make the Depo-Provera less potent, which could lead to unexpected pregnancy. Check with your doctor before taking aminoglutethimide if you are on Depo-Provera.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Depo-Provera is not given to pregnant women. If an unexpected pregnancy occurs 1 to 2 months after a Depo-Provera injection, the baby is more likely to have a low birth weight or other health problems; birth defects are possible if you use the drug during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Children born to women who were taking Depo-Provera show no signs of poor health or development. Because Depo-Provera does not prevent the breasts from producing milk, it can be used by women who are breastfeeding. However, to minimize the amount of Depo-Provera that is passed to the infant during the first weeks of life, the drug is not given until 6 weeks after childbirth. Studies show Depo-Provera is not harmful to the infant then or later in life.

Recommended dosage for Depo-Provera

Depo-Provera is given as a single 150-milligram injection every 3 months (13 weeks).

Overdosage

An overdose of Depo-Provera is highly unlikely, since it is given as a single injection by your doctor. However, if you suspect you have received an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.