What is the Origin of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA)?

The name is descriptive: 'Depot' refers to the storage mechanism, 'Medroxyprogesterone' is the chemical compound, a derivative of the naturally occurring progesterone, and 'Acetate' is the ester form used to enhance absorption and prolong its action. It was developed as a convenient, highly effective, and reversible method of birth control, simplifying patient adherence to a hormonal regimen.

What is the Mechanism of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA)?

Following injection, the medroxyprogesterone acetate slowly hydrolyzes, releasing the active progestin into the circulation. This high, steady level of progestin exerts a negative feedback effect on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, inhibiting the pulsatile release of GnRH and subsequently suppressing the surge of LH necessary for ovulation. Clinically, this leads to an anovulatory state and endometrial atrophy, which can affect bone mineral density over time due to estrogen suppression.

Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA)

Meaning

Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, or DMPA, is a synthetic progestin administered via intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, designed to provide long-acting contraception. This formulation creates a depot, or reservoir, of the steroid in the muscle or fat tissue, allowing for a slow, sustained release of the hormone over several months. It is a potent contraceptive agent that primarily works by suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. Clinicians must monitor its use due to potential impacts on bone mineral density.