DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Hydroxyprogesterone caproate injection for pregnancy

September 05, 2018

Hydroxyprogesterone caproate injection for pregnancy

What is this medicine?

HYDROXYPROGESTERONE (hye drox ee proe JES ter one) is a female hormone. This medicine is used in women who are pregnant and who have delivered a baby too early (preterm) in the past. It helps lower the risk of having a preterm baby again.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a muscle or under the skin. You will receive an injection once every week (every 7 days) as directed during your pregnancy. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for pregnant women as young as 16 years, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • depressed mood

  • increase in blood pressure

  • increased hunger or thirst

  • increased urination

  • signs and symptoms of a blood clot such as breathing problems; changes in vision; chest pain; severe, sudden headache; pain, swelling, warmth in the leg; trouble speaking; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg

  • unusually weak or tired

  • unusual vaginal bleeding

  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • diarrhea

  • fluid retention and swelling

  • nausea

  • pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected

What may interact with this medicine?

Significant interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • breast, cervical, uterine, or vaginal cancer

  • depression

  • diabetes or prediabetes

  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • history of blood clots

  • kidney disease

  • liver disease

  • lung or breathing disease, like asthma

  • migraine headaches

  • seizures

  • vaginal bleeding

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to hydroxyprogesterone, other hormones, castor oil, benzyl alcohol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your pregnancy will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

Updated:  

September 05, 2018