Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate

Generic Name: hydroxyprogesterone caproate

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate

DESCRIPTION Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate Injection, USP is a sterile, long-acting preparation of the caproate ester of the naturally- occurring progestational hormone, hydroxyprogesterone, in an oil solution for intramuscular use. The chemical name for hydroxyprogesterone caproate is pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione, 17[(1-oxohexyl)oxy]. It has a molecular formula of C 27 H 40 O 4 and a molecular weight of 428.60. Hydroxyprogesterone caproate exists as white or creamy white crystalline powder.

Overview

DESCRIPTION Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate Injection, USP is a sterile, long-acting preparation of the caproate ester of the naturally- occurring progestational hormone, hydroxyprogesterone, in an oil solution for intramuscular use. The chemical name for hydroxyprogesterone caproate is pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione, 17[(1-oxohexyl)oxy]. It has a molecular formula of C 27 H 40 O 4 and a molecular weight of 428.60. Hydroxyprogesterone caproate exists as white or creamy white crystalline powder.

Uses

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate Injection, USP is indicated in non-pregnant women: for the treatment of advanced adenocarcinoma of the uterine corpus (Stage III or IV); in the management of amenorrhea (primary and secondary) and abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance in the absence of organic pathology, such as submucous fibroids or uterine cancer; as a test for endogenous estrogen production and for the production of secretory endometrium and desquamation.

Dosage

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Suggested dosages are presented in the therapy guide. Because of the low viscosity of the vehicle, Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate Injection, USP may be administered with a small gauge needle. Care should be taken to inject the preparation deeply into the upper outer quadrant of the gluteal muscle following the usual precautions for intramuscular injection. Since the 250 mg potency provides a high concentration in a small volume, particular care should be observed to administer the full dose. Note: Use of a wet needle or syringe may cause the solution to become cloudy; however, this does not affect the potency of the material.

Side Effects

ADVERSE REACTIONS A. Serious arterial thrombotic and venous thromboembolic events, including cases of pulmonary emboli (some fatal), deep vein thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and strokes, have been reported in women using progestins. B. neuroocular lesions (e.g., retinal thrombosis and optic neuritis); nausea; vomiting; gastrointestinal symptoms (such as abdominal cramps or bloating); edema; breakthrough bleeding, spotting, or withdrawal bleeding; breast tenderness; changes in body weight (increase or decrease); headache; increase in cervical mucus; allergic rash; abscess; pain at the injection site; migraine headaches. C. chloasma or melasma, cholestatic jaundice, rise in blood pressure, mental depression, and amenorrhea during or after treatment. D.

Warnings

WARNINGS Thrombotic and Thromboembolic Events Discontinue the medication pending examination if there is a sudden partial or complete loss of vision or if there is a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine. Medication should be stopped if examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions. Allergic reactions Hypersensitivity reaction to progestins have been reported. Hydroxyprogesterone caproate is contraindicated in women with a history of hypersensitivity to a progestin. Glucose tolerance Progestins may decrease glucose tolerance and the blood glucose concentration should be monitored in diabetic users. CONTRAINDICATIONS Hydroxyprogesterone caproate is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected carcinoma of the breast, other hormone-sensitive cancer, or history of these conditions; undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding; liver dysfunction or disease; missed abortion, and in those with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug.

Storage

HOW SUPPLIED Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate Injection, USP is available in vials providing hydroxyprogesterone caproate with a potency of 250 mg per mL. The product is formulated in castor oil and 46% benzyl benzoate and containing 2% (v/v) benzyl alcohol as a preservative.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate used for?

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate Injection, USP is indicated in non-pregnant women: for the treatment of advanced adenocarcinoma of the uterine corpus (Stage III or IV); in the management of amenorrhea (primary and secondary) and abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal imbalance in the absence of organic pathology, such as submucous fibroids or uterine cancer; as a test for endogenous estrogen production and for the production of secretory endometrium and desquamation.

What are the side effects of Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

ADVERSE REACTIONS A. Serious arterial thrombotic and venous thromboembolic events, including cases of pulmonary emboli (some fatal), deep vein thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and strokes, have been reported in women using progestins. B. neuroocular lesions (e.g., retinal thrombosis and optic neuritis); nausea; vomiting; gastrointestinal symptoms (such as abdominal cramps or bloating); edema; breakthrough bleeding, spotting, or withdrawal bleeding; breast tenderness; changes in body weight (increase or decrease); headache; increase in cervical mucus; allergic rash; abscess; pain at the injection site; migraine headaches. C. chloasma or melasma, cholestatic jaundice, rise in blood pressure, mental depression, and amenorrhea during or after treatment. D.

What are the important warnings for Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate?

WARNINGS Thrombotic and Thromboembolic Events Discontinue the medication pending examination if there is a sudden partial or complete loss of vision or if there is a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine. Medication should be stopped if examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions. Allergic reactions Hypersensitivity reaction to progestins have been reported. Hydroxyprogesterone caproate is contraindicated in women with a history of hypersensitivity to a progestin. Glucose tolerance Progestins may decrease glucose tolerance and the blood glucose concentration should be monitored in diabetic users. CONTRAINDICATIONS Hydroxyprogesterone caproate is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected carcinoma of the breast, other hormone-sensitive cancer, or history of these conditions; undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding; liver dysfunction or disease; missed abortion, and in those with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.