Estradiol cypionate/medroxyprogesterone acetate
Estradiol cypionate (top) and medroxy- progesterone acetate (bottom) | |
| Combination of | |
|---|---|
| Estradiol cypionate | Estrogen |
| Medroxyprogesterone acetate | Progestogen |
| Clinical data | |
| Trade names | Cyclofem, Lunelle, others |
| Other names | EC/MPA; Cyclo-Provera; HRP-112 |
| AHFS/Drugs.com | Micromedex Detailed Consumer Information |
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| Routes of administration | Intramuscular injection |
| ATC code | |
| Legal status | |
| Legal status |
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Estradiol cypionate/medroxyprogesterone acetate (EC/MPA), sold under the brand name Cyclofem among others, is a form of combined injectable birth control. It contains estradiol cypionate (EC), an estrogen, and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), a progestin. It is recommended for short-term use and is given once a month by injection into a muscle.
Common side effects of EC/MPA include irregular menstrual periods which typically improves with time. Other side effects include blood clots, headache, hair loss, depression, nausea, and breast pain. Use during pregnancy is not recommended. Use during breastfeeding is likely safe. It works mainly by preventing ovulation.
EC/MPA came into medical use in 1993 with approval in the United States in 2000. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. The medication is approved for use in 18 countries. It is used in Mexico, Thailand, and Indonesia, among other countries. It is no longer commercially available in the United States.