MPA GYN (medroxyprogesterone acetate)

MPA GYN contains the active ingredient medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), a synthetic progestogen used to postpone menstruation and to treat various menstrual cycle disorders. It can delay the period, e.g., for a vacation, sporting events, or other occasions.

Medroxyprogesterone acetate has been established in gynecology for decades and is also used for endometriosis, dysfunctional bleeding, and as a component of hormone replacement therapy.

Mechanism of action:

• MPA is a synthetic progestogen (a progesterone derivative)
• Stabilizes the lining of the uterus (endometrium)
• Prevents the drop in progesterone that triggers menstruation
• As long as MPA is taken, the lining remains stable

For postponing the period:

• Start 3 days before the expected start of the period
• As long as MPA is taken, bleeding does not occur
• Bleeding begins 2–3 days after stopping

Other effects:

• Inhibits endometrial growth
• No inhibition of ovulation at low doses
• At higher doses: contraceptive effect

MPA GYN is suitable for:

• Women who want to postpone their menstruation for a short time
• Menstrual cycle disorders (dysfunctional bleeding)
• Secondary amenorrhea (test/therapy)
• Endometriosis (long-term therapy)

Not suitable:

• Pregnancy
• Severe liver disease
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Breast cancer (hormone-dependent)
• Deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism (current or in the past)

Postponing the period:

• 5–10 mg daily
• Start 3 days before the expected start of the period
• Take for as long as desired (maximum recommended: 10–14 days)
• Bleeding begins 2–3 days after stopping

Dysfunctional bleeding:

• 5–10 mg daily for 5–10 days to stop the bleeding
• After the following withdrawal bleed, for 2–3 cycles, 10 mg daily for 10 days, each time starting on day 16 of the cycle

Secondary amenorrhea:

• After pregnancy has been ruled out, 5–10 mg daily for 5–10 days starting on day 16–21 of the cycle

Available strength:

• 5 mg tablets

Taking it to postpone the period:

• Start taking it 3 days before the expected period
• Once daily, always at the same time
• Swallow with water
• After stopping: bleeding after 2–3 days

Important notes:

• No contraceptive protection at low doses!
• Make sure to use contraception separately
• Not intended as long-term medication to suppress periods
• Maximum duration of postponement: approx. 2 weeks recommended
• If bleeding starts early: increase the dose if necessary (after consulting a doctor)

MPA GYN must not be taken in case of:

• Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Severe liver disease
• Breast cancer or other hormone-dependent tumors
• Active or previous venous thromboembolism
• History of stroke

Use with caution in case of:

• Migraine
• Epilepsy
• Asthma
• Heart or kidney function disorders
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Risk factors for thrombosis

Common (1–10%):

• Headache
• Nausea
• Feeling of tension in the breasts
• Mood swings
• Spotting

Uncommon (0.1–1%):

• Weight gain
• Acne
• Fatigue
• Bloating
• Changes in libido

Rare:

• Venous thromboembolism
• Allergic reactions
• Depressed mood

Note: With short-term use to postpone the period (7–14 days), side effects are usually minimal. The risk of thrombosis with short-term use is very low.