Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on January 3rd, 2026.
Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, widely prescribed for a range of medical purposes. Whether used for contraception, managing menstrual disorders, or hormone replacement therapy, understanding the correct dosage is crucial for safety and effectiveness.
This guide breaks down the typical dosages by form, condition, and patient group. It also covers what to do if you miss a dose, how to adjust doses for certain health conditions, and tips for safe use. For personalized advice, telehealth platforms like Doctronic.ai offer quick access to licensed doctors who can tailor recommendations to your unique health profile.
Form |
Strength |
Typical Adult Dose |
Typical Children’s Dose |
Frequency |
Route |
Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tablet |
2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg |
5-10 mg daily |
Not typically used in children |
Once daily |
Oral |
20 mg/day |
Injection (Depo-Provera) |
150 mg/mL |
150 mg every 3 months |
Not typically used in children |
Every 12 weeks |
Intramuscular |
150 mg per injection |
For birth control, medroxyprogesterone is commonly given as a 150 mg intramuscular injection every 12 weeks. This form, known as Depo-Provera, provides long-lasting contraception without daily pills. It’s highly effective but requires adherence to the injection schedule to maintain protection.
When used to treat irregular menstruation or abnormal uterine bleeding, oral tablets are typically prescribed at 5 to 10 mg daily for 5 to 10 days each month. This helps regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce symptoms.
In cases of endometriosis or as part of hormone replacement therapy, doses can vary widely. Oral doses range from 5 mg to 20 mg daily, while injectable forms might be used less frequently depending on the treatment plan.
Adults receive medroxyprogesterone in either oral or injectable forms, with the dosage tailored to the condition being treated. For contraception, the 150 mg injection every 3 months is standard. For other conditions, oral doses of 5 to 10 mg daily are standard, sometimes adjusted up to 20 mg daily depending on response and side effects.
It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely and not to change doses without consultation.
Medroxyprogesterone is rarely prescribed for children. When used, it is typically under strict medical supervision for specific conditions, and doses are carefully calculated based on the child’s weight and medical needs. Always consult a pediatric specialist or your doctor before administering this medication to children.
If you miss a dose of oral medroxyprogesterone, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up doses to catch up. For injectable forms, if you miss the scheduled injection, contact your healthcare provider immediately to reschedule. Delaying injections can reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
Patients with liver disease may require dose adjustments or alternative therapies since the liver metabolizes medroxyprogesterone. Your doctor will monitor liver function and adjust the dose accordingly.
While kidney impairment does not usually require dose changes, close monitoring is recommended to detect any unusual side effects or accumulation of the drug.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and breast tenderness. In case of suspected overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Medroxyprogesterone should be used cautiously in patients with a history of blood clots, stroke, or hormone-sensitive cancers.
Always inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history and any other medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
Take oral tablets at the same time each day to maintain steady hormone levels.
Do not stop or change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
Keep all scheduled injection appointments if using the injectable form.
Report any unusual side effects such as severe headaches, vision changes, or leg swelling immediately.
Use telehealth services like Doctronic.ai for quick access to medical advice and personalized dosage guidance.
Understanding the correct dosage of medroxyprogesterone can be complex because it depends on your health condition, age, and treatment goals. Doctronic.ai offers free AI-powered doctor visits that provide instant, research-backed answers tailored to your needs. You can also connect with licensed doctors for convenient telehealth video visits anytime, anywhere in the U.S. This personalized approach helps ensure you take the correct dose safely and effectively.
Yes, but this should be done under medical supervision to ensure proper timing and dosing and to avoid gaps in treatment or contraceptive coverage.
The injection typically lasts about 12 weeks (3 months), after which another dose is needed to maintain effectiveness.
Medroxyprogesterone is generally not recommended during pregnancy. If you suspect you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking it, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Report any side effects to your doctor. Mild side effects may resolve over time, but severe symptoms require prompt medical attention.
Yes, it can cause changes such as irregular bleeding, spotting, or missed periods, especially when starting treatment.
Doctronic.ai provides AI-powered and doctor-led consultations to help tailor dosage and treatment to your individual needs.
Medroxyprogesterone is a powerful medication with diverse uses and dosing schedules. Correct dosage and adherence are vital for achieving the desired outcomes and minimizing risks. If you have questions about your dose or experience side effects, reach out to a healthcare professional promptly. Doctronic.ai makes it easier than ever to get expert guidance without leaving home.
Understanding Medroxyprogesterone Uses and DosagesMedroxyprogesterone is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, widely prescribed for a range of medical purposes. [...]
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