Depo-Provera (generic: medroxyprogesterone) is a prescription medication used to prevent pregnancy.  This medication is also used reduce pain caused by endometriosis, as well as pain related to certain cancers. Depo-Provera belongs to a group of drugs called progestins, which prevent eggs from leaving the ovaries (ovulation). It also prevents the fertilized egg from attaching to the wall of the uterus.

This medication comes in injectable form. It is injected into the muscle of the buttocks or upper arm, once every 3 months, usually by a healthcare provider.

Common side effects of Depo-Provera include abnormal vaginal bleeding, weight gain, and headache.