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Semin Reprod Med 2001; 19(4): 331-338
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-18641
Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Current Options for Injectable Contraception in the United States

Andrew M. Kaunitz
  • Professor and Assistant Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida Health Science Center/Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida
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Publication History

Publication Date:
29 November 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Two injectable forms of hormonal contraception, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, Depo-Provera) and medroxyprogesterone acetate/estradiol cypionate (MPA/E2C, Lunelle), are now available to American women. Both formulations have demonstrated high degrees of efficacy, safety, and ease of use in international and U.S. trials. Data on DMPA have shown a number of noncontraceptive and therapeutic benefits, the most prominent of which is an 80% reduction in the risk of endometrial cancer. Although such benefits are less documented for MPA/E2C, they are expected to be similar to those seen with DMPA and oral contraceptives. Minor side effects of both formulations include menstrual irregularities in the early months of treatment and amenorrhea with DMPA. Patient counseling about the potential for these side effects, as well as possible risks, is important to long-term successful use of these contraceptive methods.

KEYWORD

Injectable contraception - depot medroxyprogesterone acetate - Depo-Provera - medroxyprogesterone acetate - estradiol cypionate - Lunelle

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