Effects of medroxyprogesterone acetate on carbohydrate metabolism.

Abstract

The effect of long-acting, injectable medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) on carbohydrate metabolism was studied. MPA was administered intramuscularly in 400 mg doses every 6 months to 18 women who had been taking the drug for an average period of 15.4 months. 1 women showed a "diabetic curve" in the glucose tolerance test, which was accompanied by excessive weight gain. 17 of the 18 subjects had abnormal serum insulin levels. The increase was significant at the fasting period (p less than .001) and at the 3-hour period (p less than .05). 11 of the 14 controls had a normal insulin response. Serum growth hormones tended to increase in both the treated and control groups, though the difference was only probably significant at the 2-hour period (p less than .05). There was no established effect of MPA on plasma free fatty acids or serum triglycerides. It was concluded that MPA is diabetogenic, and appropriate tests should be made prior to administering the drug.