Popular Birth Control Shot Weakens Bones And Increases Risk Of Fractures And Osteoporosis

Prolonged use of the injectable contraceptive, Depo-Provera®, may result in the loss of bone density, according to information provided to the FDA by the drug’s manufacturer Pfizer.

Based on the data provided, the FDA is adding a "black box" warning to Depo-Provera stating that prolonged use of the drug may weaken the bones and increase the risk of fracture.

It may also increase the risk of osteoporosis.  This type of warning is the strongest warning the FDA issues on drugs. The label also states that bone loss is greater the longer the drug is used. Officials further note that loss of bone density may not be completely reversible once women stop taking the drug.

Pfizer also plans to send a letter to healthcare providers explaining the long-term effects of Depo-Provera and will include information on this specific risk in the patient information pamphlet that is distributed with the drug.

SOURCE: FDA News Release; Web MD Health, www.my.webmd.com, November 18, 2004.