I used Depo for about 3-1/2 years, and I was given my shot every 2-1/2 months instead of every 3 months, which is a higher dose than normally given. I gained 77 pounds, had problems with extremely low blood sugar and then extremely high blood sugar, I was unable to think of words sometimes, I fell all the time, had severe joint pain and swelling. These side effects were so debilitating that I was on the verge of losing my job. I finally got off Depo and ended up having a partial hysterectomy for adenomyosis (endometriosis INSIDE the uterus) and my uterus weighed almost three times its normal weight.

Not all women get the severe side effects but MOST get some side effects. Depo is a form of steroid, so if you have ever had problems with side effects from something like prednisone, you will most likely get side effects from Depo. Be aware of possible side effects before taking anything and be aware of your own body's response to other medications. If you normally get side effects from other medicines, you will probably get side effects from Depo. I still have not found a doctor who agrees that these medical problems were caused by side effects but I am a medical transcriptionist and have done research on my own. More than half the women I type medical records for who are on Depo have some form of side effects.

Please do not take this medication without being fully informed.