Women who use Depo-Provera Contraceptive Injection (Depo-Provera CI) may lose significant bone mineral density. Bone loss is greater with increasing duration of use and may not be. Commonly referred to as the “birth control shot,” Depo-Provera® is an injectable form of birth control. It’s a shot of progestin that you get every three months, most commonly in your arm or butt. You don’t have to take a daily pill, and it’s very effective when you take it as scheduled. Depo-Provera is used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. It is also used to reduce pain cause by endometriosis. Learn about side effects, interactions and indications. Depo-Provera is an injection containing the synthetic hormone progestin which is called depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA). Depo-Provera is a hormonal method of contraception obtained by prescription. Depo-Provera helps to treat vasomotor symptoms, which occurs during menopause. They include hot flashes, night sweats, heart rate and mood changes, and difficulty sleeping. Depo-Provera Contraceptive Injection should not be used as a long-term birth control method (i.e., longer than 2 years) unless other birth control methods are considered inadequate. (5.1) Pfizer RxPathways connects eligible patients to a range of assistance programs that offer insurance support, co-pay help, and medicines for free or at a savings. Access information designed for healthcare professionals, including details about Pfizer medicines and patient support materials. Depo-Provera is a birth control method that you can get as a shot. Learn more about the benefits, how well it works, and its side effects. Depo-Provera is a drug, manufactured by The Upjohn Co., whose active ingredient is medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). FDA first approved the drug in 1959 to treat amenorrhea,5 irregular uterine bleeding, and threatened and habitual abortion. Depo-Provera is used to prevent pregnancy and manage medical conditions linked to the menstrual cycle. A healthcare professional might suggest Depo-Provera if: You don't want to take a birth control pill every day. You can't or don't want to use estrogen.