Title: Be prepared to counsel on use of DMPA and bone health issues.

POPLINE Document Number: 281904

Source citation:

Contraceptive Technology Update, 2005 Feb;26(2):[4] p..

Abstract:

It’s time to update your counseling on the injectable contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, Depo-Provera, Pfizer; New York City). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has added a “black box” warning to the drug’s labeling to highlight that prolonged use may result in the loss of bone mineral density (BMD). The new label states that bone loss in women who use Depo-Provera is greater with increased duration of use and may not be completely reversible. The injectable contraceptive should be used as a long-term birth control method (longer than two years) only if other birth control methods are inadequate, the label advises. Women who continue to use Depo-Provera past the two-year mark should have their BMD evaluated, according to the new labeling. Since Depo-Provera was approved for U.S. use in 1992, its prescribing information has included a warning that use of the product may be considered among the risk factors for development of osteoporosis. Two studies, one enrolling women ages 25-35 and the other aimed at adolescents, were begun in the mid-1990s to clarify the drug’s impact on BMD. Results from the studies, which have not yet been published, provide the background for the drug’s revised labeling. (excerpt)

Keywords:

United States
Recommendations
Women
Contraceptive Methods
Injectables
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate
Side Effects
Counseling
Risk Factors
Skeletal Effects
USFDA
North America
Americas
Developed Countries
Demographic Factors
Population
Contraception
Family Planning
Contraceptive Agents, Progestin
Contraceptive Agents, Female
Contraceptive Agents
Treatment
Clinic Activities
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration
Biology
Physiology
USPHS
Government Agencies
Organizations