The use of medroxyprogesterone acetate for relief of climacteric symptoms
Morrison, J.C.; Martin, D.C.; Blair, R.A.; Anderson, G.D.; Kincheloe, B.W.; Bates, G.W.; Hendrix, J.W.; Rivlin, M.E.; Forman, E.K.; Propst, M.G.; Needham, R.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 138(1): 99-104
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9378 PMID: 7416212 DOI: 10.1016/0002-9378(80)90017-4Document Number: 495962
Climacteric symptoms in the menopausal woman are perplexing to the physician. Recent literature concerning the relationship of estrogen to carcinogenesis has caused many women to discontinue this medication; thus, there is a need for an alternative therapy for the relief of these symptoms. The drug medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo-Provera) was assessed in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involving 48 subjects. Only one of the placebo-treated patients claimed any relief from climacteric symptoms while only two of the patients who received the study drug noted little or no relief (P < 0.0001). Relief from climacteric symptoms began at 4 to 7 days after entry into the study and extended for 8 to 20 weeks. The only side effects were withdrawal bleeding and a slight, transient weight gain. Depo-Provera appears to be a reliable substitute for estrogen in the treatment of climacteric symptoms. Further investigations with this medication seem indicated.