Sedometril

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Sedometril

Property Description
Active Ingredient Medroxyprogesterone (MPA)
Forms Tablets (oral), Injectable suspension
Pharmacological Class Progestogen (Hormonal agent)
General Purpose Provides hormonal control
Origin Synthetic (Derivative of Progesterone)

1. What Type of Medicine is Sedometril (Medroxyprogesterone)?

Sedometril is a prescription-only pharmaceutical preparation containing the active ingredient Medroxyprogesterone, typically as Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). It is fundamentally categorized as a potent hormonal agent within the progestogen pharmacological class. Its primary purpose is to interact directly with the body's progesterone receptors. Sedometril is distinguished by being available not only as solid oral tablets but also in a long-acting injectable suspension, offering flexibility in the administration strategy needed for sustained therapeutic effect.

2. Is Medroxyprogesterone a Natural Hormone or a Synthetic Progestogen?

Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic steroidal compound, chemically manufactured as a specialized derivative of Progesterone. Unlike the natural hormone produced endogenously, this synthetic progestogen incorporates structural modifications recognized for conferring greater stability and sustained activity. This specific structure indicates it is a core, well-established pregnen-derivative progestogen used globally. The resulting single-ingredient product is engineered to provide reliable and targeted synthetic hormone activity.

3. What is the General Purpose of This Progestogen Therapy?

The core general purpose of therapy with this progestogen is to provide precise hormonal control and manage underlying hormonal imbalance. Clinical experience supports the utility of Medroxyprogesterone in modulating the function of the female reproductive system. For example, it is recognized for its ability to regulate the menstrual cycle by supporting key biological processes, making it critical for restoring and maintaining hormonal cyclicity and balance. This synthetic hormone activity allows it to effectively substitute for, or supplement, the body’s natural progesterone output.

Regulatory References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO)

What side effects are possible with Sedometril?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Sedometril (Medroxyprogesterone) is based on official government regulatory documents, which classify documented effects according to their frequency and the physiological systems affected.

Official Adverse Reaction Classifications

Side effects are categorized by frequency, where Very Common (ge 1/10) effects include irregular bleeding, spotting, and amenorrhea (absence of menstrual bleeding), particularly during the initial phase of treatment. Common (ge 1/100 to < 1/10) adverse reactions often involve the Nervous System (e.g., headache, dizziness, nervousness), Psychiatric changes (e.g., depression), and Metabolism (e.g., weight gain, nausea).

Documented Serious Safety Concerns

Regulatory labeling specifies clinically significant but Rare (ge 1/10,000 to < 1/1000) adverse events, notably Thromboembolic Events (such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism). Other documented concerns include severe hypersensitivity reactions and the potential for severe hepatic dysfunction.

Exposure- and Population-Related Safety Notes

Specific safety considerations are tied to the duration of use. The loss of Bone Mineral Density (BMD) is officially stated to increase with the prolonged duration of exposure, especially concerning in adolescents. Furthermore, the medicine is Contraindicated in individuals with a current or past history of thromboembolic disorders, severe active liver disease, or certain types of malignant neoplasms, reflecting the strict safety constraints defined by regulatory authorities.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Sedometril Overdose and When to Seek Help

Officially documented manifestations of Medroxyprogesterone overdose are generally limited to a predictable cluster of non-specific symptoms. The most frequently reported presentations found in regulatory records include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue. Clinical signs may also involve breast tenderness and the occurrence of withdrawal bleeding. Although exceptionally high doses (up to 3 grams daily) have been reported as being well tolerated, the management of overdosage is strictly structured around discontinuing the medication.

Regulatory guidance states that the treatment must consist exclusively of symptomatic and supportive care, as there is no specific antidote documented to reverse the effects of Medroxyprogesterone overexposure. The primary action required is to seek immediate medical attention if severe clinical signs are present. Urgent medical help must be obtained immediately if the person exhibits signs such as collapse, a seizure, trouble breathing, or if they are unable to be awakened. The regulatory profile further notes that the effect of pre-existing hepatic or renal impairment on the kinetics of Medroxyprogesterone in an overdose situation remains unknown.

Therapeutic Uses of Sedometril

What Sedometril Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Sedometril is a medication generally used in veterinary contexts to provide symptomatic support and is relevant for managing conditions driven by hormonal fluctuations. It may be applied in clinical settings marked by increased symptomatic distress related to reproductive or behavioral issues.

Therapeutic Focus and Key Benefits

The therapeutic focus of this medication is on helping manage symptoms associated with the female animal's reproductive cycle, pseudopregnancy (false pregnancy) manifestations, and hormone-driven behaviors or specific skin issues. Progestins like this are indicated for use in managing reproductive cycles and managing symptoms associated with reproductive timing.

It is commonly used to help manage the overall symptom load associated with these conditions, which include physical manifestations, behavioral unrest, and hormone-linked skin changes. The medication may assist with coping more steadily with difficult episodic manifestations, providing supportive relief that contributes to improved day-to-day comfort and supports functional stability.

“It may be part of symptomatic management applied when symptoms create noticeable physiological strain.”

Quick Fact: Support for Symptoms Related to Hormonal Cycles

The medication is commonly used when symptoms linked to hormonal cycles intensify, and is relevant for easing the overall symptom load.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Sedometril (Medroxyprogesterone) eligibility rules are strictly defined by regulatory authorities to identify populations that can safely use the medicine and those that must avoid it.

Populations for Whom Use is Prohibited (Contraindications)

Official labeling identifies several conditions that universally prohibit the use of this medicine:

  • Known or suspected pregnancy.
  • Active thrombophlebitis or a current or past history of thromboembolic disorders (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, cerebral vascular disease).
  • Known or suspected malignancy of the breast or other progesterone-dependent neoplasia.
  • Significant liver disease or acute liver dysfunction where function tests have not returned to normal.
  • Undiagnosed abnormal genital or vaginal bleeding.
  • Known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or other components.

Restrictions and Conditional Use

Population Official Regulatory Rule
Duration of Use Not recommended as a long-term method (e.g., longer than two years) unless other options are inadequate, due to the labeled risk of Bone Mineral Density (BMD) loss.
Age: Pediatric Not indicated before menarche (start of menstruation).
Age: Adolescents Use is permissible, but the potential for BMD loss during this critical period of bone accretion must be considered, especially for long-term use.
Age: Geriatric The product is not indicated and not studied for the contraceptive use in postmenopausal women.
Lactation Use is generally restricted, with recommended initiation no sooner than six weeks postpartum.
Organ Function Severe hepatic impairment is a contraindication. Caution is advised for patients with renal dysfunction due to the potential for fluid retention, though no formal dose adjustment is documented.

Patients with diabetes mellitus or a history of meningioma also require careful observation or discontinuation as dictated by the regulatory labeling.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Sedometril, which contains the hormonal agent Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (MPA), is involved in documented pharmacokinetic interaction patterns that modify its concentration in the body. These patterns are centered on the drug's metabolism by the CYP3A enzyme pathway, as described in official prescribing information.

Documented Exposure-Altering Interactions

Interactions are classified based on their effect on MPA exposure:

  • Decreased Exposure (Effect Diminished): Co-administration with medicines designated as strong CYP3A Inducers is expected to decrease Medroxyprogesterone Acetate concentrations. Specific medicines and substances documented to cause this outcome include Aminoglutethimide, Rifampin, Phenytoin, and the herbal product St. John's Wort.

  • Increased Exposure (Concentration Raised): Conversely, co-administration with strong CYP3A Inhibitors is expected to increase Medroxyprogesterone Acetate concentrations. Examples of such inhibitors include Ketoconazole and Ritonavir.

Interaction with Laboratory Tests

The use of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate may also interfere with the results of certain diagnostic laboratory tests. Officially documented interference may be observed in tests for coagulation factors, lipids, and glucose tolerance.

Mechanism of Action

Modulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis

Sedometril, containing medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), functions as a synthetic progestin and exerts anti-gonadotropic effects. It acts by engaging mechanisms that modulate the secretion of pituitary gonadotropins, specifically Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This modification of the signaling sequence helps suppress the pulsatile release of these hormones, which in turn leads to the inhibition of follicular development and ovulation.


Direct Progestational Activity on Target Cells

The compound acts within domains involving receptor-mediated signaling by binding to and activating progesterone receptors in responsive tissues. This molecular interaction initiates signaling sequences that result in downstream transcriptional effects. This process modifies gene expression to induce characteristic endometrial changes, such as suppressing the proliferation normally driven by estrogen, and induces feedback mechanisms that modulate cellular pathway output.


Secondary Receptor Modulation

MPA engages mechanisms that influence processes mediated by other steroid hormones. It exerts modulatory effects on estrogen-induced phenomena, including suppression of estrogen receptor synthesis in certain tissues. Furthermore, it exhibits anti-androgenic activity, modifying molecular steps that interfere with androgen receptor responses.

Dosage and Administration Information

Sedometril (hydroxyprogesterone caproate) is a progestin administered via injection to reduce the risk of recurrent spontaneous preterm birth in women with a singleton pregnancy who have a history of a previous spontaneous preterm birth. This medication is exclusively administered by a healthcare provider in a clinic or hospital setting.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dose is typically 250 mg (1 mL) once weekly (every seven days). Treatment is started in the second trimester of pregnancy, specifically between 16 weeks, 0 days and 20 weeks, 6 days of gestation. Administration continues weekly until the 37th week of gestation (through 36 weeks, 6 days) or until delivery, whichever occurs first.

Administration Route Standard Dosage Injection Site
Intramuscular (IM) Injection 250 mg (1 mL) once weekly Upper outer quadrant of the Gluteus Maximus (buttock)
Subcutaneous (SC) Injection 275 mg (1.1 mL) once weekly Back of the upper arm

For IM injection, the solution is administered slowly over one minute or longer, and the injection site should be rotated weekly to the alternate side to minimize bruising and swelling. The solution must be clear at the time of use; visible particles or crystals indicate the product should not be used. It is crucial to adhere strictly to the weekly dosing schedule and not miss a dose.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Sedometril

Research for Sedometril (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) has included controlled clinical trials and observational studies conducted by veterinary researchers. Research provides context regarding how animal outcomes were documented.

Evidence for Reproductive Cycle Management Studies

Research explored how this medication affects the reproductive cycle, an application relevant in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns in intact female dogs and cats. Studies focused on outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, with research exploring measurements such as the duration for which the estrous cycle (heat) was delayed or suppressed. Findings described patterns observed in the studies, including measurements related to different doses and routes of administration and the subsequent duration of cycle postponement.

Research indicates that evidence consistency remains limited across all breeds and populations. Follow-up durations were limited in many studies, and long-term effects are not fully established regarding the medication's influence on the reproductive system after treatment has stopped. Evidence quality varies across studies, with some older reports lacking the stringent randomization of modern clinical trials.

Evidence for Symptom Management of Hormonal Conditions

Research examined the use of Sedometril in populations with conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, such as symptoms of pseudopregnancy (false pregnancy) and specific hormonal skin issues. This evidence is limited and mainly consists of descriptive clinical case series and observational reports used in observational settings evaluating daily-life functioning.

Studies monitored data related to physical discomfort and behavioral indicators. Clinical reports described patterns observed in studies, where the measured symptoms changed during the study period for some animals. Comparative evidence is lacking for many of these applications, and the evidence derived from non-comparative settings provides limited insight into the condition's progression.

What Remains Uncertain in the Research Record

The scientific literature highlights several areas where the available evidence is limited. Long-term effects are not fully established, and subgroup findings are uncertain, as the majority of research does not fully characterize differences across all breeds, ages, or comorbid groups. Additionally, comparative evidence is lacking for many behavioral endpoints. Research is ongoing to further understand the role of this medication in various hormonal contexts.

Key Studies & References

  1. Progestin-Based Non-Surgical Contraception in dogs and cats: A National Survey of Practices among Thai Veterinarians
  2. SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS Promone E 50 mg/ml Suspension for injection (Regulatory Document, UK VMD)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Sedometril (FAQ)


Q: Why is Sedometril used by people who don't have [main condition]? (Clarification)

The official product information indicates that Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, the active ingredient in Sedometril, has multiple authorized uses beyond a single specific condition. These uses can include treatment for secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods) and managing certain types of abnormal uterine bleeding. Its primary general purpose is described as providing hormonal control.


Q: What happens if I miss a day of Sedometril?

Official patient instructions provide specific steps to follow if a scheduled dose of Sedometril is missed. The exact guidance on how to proceed typically depends on the drug's formulation (tablet versus injection) and how much time has passed since the scheduled administration. The official label highlights the importance of adhering to the scheduled dosing.


Q: How long does Sedometril stay in your system after stopping?

Regulatory documents contain data on the drug's half-life. This is a scientific measurement that helps estimate the time required for the body to eliminate approximately half of the administered dose. This figure is used to calculate how long the medicine's presence remains detectable in the system after stopping use.


Q: Is Sedometril known to affect sleep patterns?

Official regulatory documents list side effects that involve the central nervous system ( CNS). These can include dizziness, nervousness, and sometimes somnolence (drowsiness) or insomnia. While not every patient experiences these, such effects may indirectly influence sleep patterns.


Q: What is the list of ingredients in Sedometril besides the active compound?

Official drug labels list all components of the medication, including the inactive ingredients (often called excipients). These ingredients are necessary for the product's formulation, such as the color or structure of the tablet, but do not provide the main therapeutic effect.


Q: Why does the official leaflet mention caution with [specific medical condition]? (Eligibility)

Official labeling advises caution for certain pre-existing conditions because the medicine may influence or exacerbate them. For example, caution is mentioned for patients with renal dysfunction or diabetes mellitus due to the potential for the drug to affect fluid balance or metabolism, respectively.


Q: Can women use Sedometril if they are planning to conceive?

Official information discusses the expected timeline for fertility (the return to ovulation) to resume after a patient stops using the drug, as the medicine's primary effect is to modulate hormonal activity. Official information provides the context for consideration regarding fertility and pregnancy planning.


Q: What should be done if an official side effect occurs?

Regulatory documents emphasize the importance of patient reporting and counsel users on the steps to take if an official side effect occurs. Regulatory documents state that users are generally directed to contact a healthcare provider immediately for serious events.


Q: Is Sedometril habit-forming or associated with dependence?

Official labeling includes a section that addresses the drug's potential for abuse or dependence. This information, based on regulatory evaluation, provides context on whether Sedometril is classified as a substance associated with habit-forming risks.


Q: Do any official warnings exist about using Sedometril before driving?

The official side effect profile includes common effects such as dizziness or drowsiness ( somnolence). Regulatory guidance describes a general precaution associated with the potential for central nervous system effects.


Q: Are there known issues with mixing Sedometril and alcohol?

Official prescribing information addresses the co-administration of the medicine with alcohol. Regulatory documents either explicitly state a warning regarding interaction, or no specific regulatory restriction is listed. This information is based on formal interaction studies.


Q: What is the purpose of the [inactive ingredient] found in Sedometril tablets?

The inactive ingredients (excipients) listed in the official tablets serve functional purposes rather than therapeutic ones. These components are included to ensure the product has the correct stability, structure, color, or to assist with the drug's proper absorption in the body.


Q: What are the published results of the phase 3 clinical trials for Sedometril?

Official regulatory submissions, detailed in the clinical studies section of the labeling, contain summaries of the key findings and efficacy results that supported the drug's approval. These summaries provide descriptive data on the observed outcomes of the trials.


Q: If I have a history of [general allergy/sensitivity], can I use Sedometril?

Official regulatory documents state that the drug is contraindicated (prohibited) if a person has a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the active ingredient or any of the inactive ingredients. The regulatory document provides the context for a discussion with a healthcare provider regarding general allergy history.


Q: Do any foods need to be avoided while taking Sedometril?

Official regulatory documentation includes specific warnings regarding whether certain foods or food components may interfere with the drug's metabolism or effectiveness. This is based on scientific data regarding known pharmacokinetic interactions and is detailed in the labeling.


Q: Does Sedometril have a 'black box' warning from the FDA or equivalent agency?

Official FDA labeling will display a Boxed Warning (commonly known as a Black Box Warning) if the drug is associated with serious safety risks that may outweigh the benefits in certain situations. This is included to call the user's attention to defined safety risks.


Q: Can Sedometril be crushed or split if swallowing is difficult?

Official labeling specifies whether the tablets are designed to be split or crushed without affecting the medicine's function or delivery. The official label provides the necessary information for proper administration.


Q: Is there a generic version of Sedometril available?

Government-run pharmaceutical databases, such as the FDA's Orange Book, maintain records indicating whether an equivalent generic version of the drug has been reviewed and approved for marketing. This is a public health registration detail.


Q: Is Sedometril effective for all patients who have [main condition]?

Regulatory documents detail the response rate observed in clinical studies rather than guaranteeing universal effectiveness. The official labeling describes the efficacy percentage achieved in the study populations, reflecting the expected outcomes under trial conditions.


Q: What should be done if I feel like Sedometril is not working?

Official patient counseling information describes the necessity of contacting a healthcare provider if the drug's effect is perceived as inadequate. This allows the provider to evaluate potential factors, which may include adherence, duration of use, or other clinical considerations.


Q: Does grapefruit juice interact with Sedometril?

Official drug interaction lists for Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, which involves the CYP3A4 metabolic pathway, typically contain specific warnings concerning the consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice. This is based on known effects on the drug's concentration in the body.


Q: Are the side effects of Sedometril dose-dependent?

Clinical summaries and regulatory documents often describe the relationship between dose and side effects. This information indicates whether the frequency or severity of adverse reactions was observed to increase when higher doses or longer durations of use were employed in studies.


Q: Is it okay to store Sedometril in the bathroom cabinet?

Official storage rules require the medicine to be stored at a Controlled Room Temperature and protected from moisture. Because a bathroom cabinet often experiences high humidity and temperature fluctuations, it may not meet the official environment requirements necessary to maintain drug quality and stability.


Q: Can Sedometril be taken while breastfeeding?

Official labeling addresses the transfer of the drug into breast milk and whether adverse effects in the infant or an impact on milk supply are expected. The regulatory information provides the basis for guidance on its use during the lactation period.


Q: Is there a summary of the long-term studies on Sedometril?

The regulatory record contains summaries of all long-term data collected during the drug's development. These summaries, which cover extended periods of patient use, are often consolidated within the clinical studies section of the official documents available to providers.


Q: Are pediatric uses for Sedometril authorized in official documents?

Regulatory documents explicitly state that the product is not indicated for use in children before menarche (the start of menstruation). Specific safety concerns related to bone health and use during adolescence are also described in the official labeling.


Q: Can Sedometril cause light sensitivity or vision changes?

Official warnings specify conditions under which the medication's use is recommended to be stopped pending further medical evaluation if a patient experiences sudden loss of vision or other ocular changes like diplopia (double vision). This caution is tied to the potential for rare, serious ocular disorders.

How should Sedometril be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Regulatory documents specify that this medicine must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, which is typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), while protecting it from both excessive heat and freezing. For stability, the medication must be stored in the original container and kept tightly closed.

Specific environmental protections require that the product be shielded from light and moisture. As a mandatory safety requirement, the medicine must be stored strictly out of the sight and reach of children.

For disposal, the official instruction is to utilize authorized medicine take-back programs or designated collection sites. The product must not be disposed of by flushing it down the toilet or throwing it into household waste, preventing environmental contamination.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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