Injectable Birth Control

Another way to reversibly control reproduction for the long term is to use chemical injections.

In 1993 a drug, Depo-Provera, was approved as a contraceptive. This drug had been around since the early 1960s as a means to treat endometrial cancer. An injection of this drug can provide protection for approximately 90 days. Conduct a literature search on Depo-Provera with these questions in mind:

• What is the mode of action of Depo-Provera?
• What is the overall effectiveness of Depo-Provera in terms of percent of women experiencing an accidental pregnancy?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of Depo-Provera compared other chemical contraceptives?
• Prior to being approved in the United States, Depo-Provera was already being used in approximately 90 other countries. Why did it take so long to get this drug approved in the United States?