Alterations in blood lipids and side effects induced by depo-provera in Nigerian women.

A fasting plasma lipid profile investigation was undertaken in 63 women who were on contraception with the 3-monthly intramuscular depo-provera injection for periods ranging from 3 to 30 months. Fifty nulliparous women, with no previous history of contraceptive therapy, matched for age, parity, height and socio-economic status, served as controls. History of clinico-physiological side effects was recorded. The results show reduced levels of fasting plasma cholesterol in patients on depo-provera compared to the control group but there was no significant change in fasting plasma phospholipid levels. Contrary to expectations, the patients on depo-provera had higher fasting plasma triglyceride levels than controls. Excessive weight gain and irregular heavy bleeding represent major reasons for withdrawal from depo-provera therapy. The findings suggest that the alterations in the plasma lipid profile, body weight and side effects experienced by women on depo-provera may be inversely related to the duration of effective therapy.