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Medroxyprogesterone acetate, MPA, is long acting synthetic
progesterone. It is commonly used in women as an injectable contraceptive. Oral
MPA is used in women to treat bleeding disturbances associated with the menstrual
cycle. MPA blocks the secretion of pituitary hormones, and has a marked effect on
ACTH and cortisol release. MPA also has an anti-insulin effect, and decreases
testosterone in male humans and male dogs.
MPA has historically been used for estrus suppression in the female, for behavioral management of intact male dogs and cats, and for the management of feline psychogenic dermatitis and alopecia. There are many side effects associated with MPA use in dogs and cats and recent literature has focused on the use of alternative drugs. All use of MPA in dogs and cats is extra-label, and it should only be used when other treatment options have been tried and found unsuccessful.
MPA is used for estrus suppression in performance horse mares, and to diminish inappropriate sexual behavior in "studish" geldings. There is also some thought that progestins such as MPA may calm the behavior of "hot" horses. This is an extrapolation based on work done with progestins in other species.
Although the published studies on its use do not show any effect on estrus suppression, there are many practitioners who feel that they have seen a positive response. Anecdotally, there are some mares who respond well to MPA and others that do not seem to respond at all. The gold standard drug for estrus suppression in the mare is altrenogest.
• Dogs and cats: Permanent local alopecia from SC injection.
Increased appetite or thirst, obesity, lethargy, personality changes. Uterine pathology,
cystic hyperplasia, pyometra. Mammary development, lactation and neoplasia. Adrenocortical
suppression. Diabetes mellitus. Acromegaly has been reported in dogs.
• Horses: There is very little literature regarding the use of
MPA in the horse. No reports of side effects have been found.
MPA should not be used in dogs or cats under the following conditions;
prior to puberty, during pregnancy, during a pseudo-pregnancy, during diestrus, in the presences
of uterine bleeding, during a prolonged heat, and in animals with diabetes.
MPA can suppress adrenal function. The use of exogenous corticosteroids
may be necessary in conditions of abnormal stress.
• Rifampin may decrease the activity of progestins. The clinical
significance of this possible interaction is unknown.
• No information regarding overdose has been found.
Dr.
Barbara Forney is a veterinary practitioner in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
She has a master's degree in animal science from the University of Delaware
and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
in 1982.
She began to develop her interest in client education and medical writing 1997. Recent publications include portions of The Pill Book Guide to Medication for Your Dog and Cat, and most recently Understanding Equine Medications published by the Bloodhorse.
Dr. Forney is an FEI veterinarian and an active member of the AAEP, AVMA, and AMWA.
You can purchase books by Dr. Forney at www.exclusivelyequine.com
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The information contained on this site
is general in nature and is intended for use as an informational aid. It does
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risks and benefits of using a particular product. You should consult your doctor
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nor has the FDA approved the products to diagnose, cure or prevent disease.
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