Medroxyprogesterone

See also Hormone Replacement

Generic and Trade Names:

Medroxyprogesterone Acetate

Amen, Cycrin, Provera

Description:

Medroxyprogesterone is a form of progestin which provides contraceptive (see also oral contraceptives) and antineoplastic benefits. It is also used for secondary amenorrhea or abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance. (Facts and Comparisons 1999)

Nutritional Considerations:

Vitamin A and D levels increased when progesterone alone is used. (Bikle 1992)

Monitor glucose, especially with diabetics because sugar imbalances are possible. (Facts and Comparisons 1999)

Oral contraceptives may lower the levels of several vitamins or minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, B12, folic acid, riboflavin, ascorbic acid and zinc. (Webb 1980)

Herbal Considerations:

Herbs such as black cohosh, dong quai, ginseng, gotu kola, motherwort are often used to treat hot flashes, they might theoretically interact with medroxyprogesterone. (Blumenthal 1998)

References

Bikle DD, Halloran BP, Harris ST, Portale AA. Progestin antagonism of estrogen stimulated 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1992;75:519-23.

Blumenthal, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council. Austin, TX. 1998.

Facts and Comparisons, Clinisphere 2.0, A Wolters Kluwer Company, 1999.

Herzberg M, Lusky A, Blonder J, Frenkel. The effect of estrogen replacement therapy on zinc in serum and urine. Obstet Gynecol 1996;87:1035-40.

Joshi UM, Virkar KD, Amatayakul K, et al. Impact of hormonal contraceptives vis-a-vis non-hormonal factors on the vitamin status of malnourished women in India and Thailand. World Health Organization: Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction. Task Force on Oral Contraceptives. Hum Nutr Clin Nutr 1986;40:205-20.

Webb, JL, "Nutritional Effects of Oral Contraceptive Use: A Review" J Reprod Med, 1980, 25(4):150-6.