Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (IARC Summary & Evaluation, Volume 21, 1979)

International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations

MEDROXYPROGESTERONE ACETATE

VOL.: 21 (1979) (p. 417)

5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation

(N.B. - This section should be read in conjunction with the General Remarks on Sex Hormones and with the General Conclusions on Sex Hormones.)

5.1 Experimental data

Medroxyprogesterone acetate was tested in mice and dogs by intramuscular administration. It produced mammary tumours in dogs.

Medroxyprogesterone acetate was reported to have teratogenic effects in some species.

5.2 Human data

One epidemiological study concerning the development of breast nodules and two studies concerning the development of dysplasias and carcinoma in situ of the uterine cervix have been reported. The results of these studies were conflicting and difficult to interpret because of methodological problems. Epidemiological studies on steroid hormones used in oestrogen-progestin oral contraceptive preparations have been summarized in the section, 'Oestrogens and Progestins in Relation to Human Cancer'.

5.3 Evaluation

There is limited evidence for the carcinogenicity of medroxyprogesterone acetate in dogs. Epidemiological studies on medroxyprogesterone acetate are inadequate for an evaluation of the carcinogenicity of this compound in humans.

For definition of the italicized terms, see Preamble Evaluation.

Previous evaluation: Vol. 6 (1974)

Subsequent evaluation: Suppl. 7 (1987) (Medroxprogesterone acetate; progestins)

Last updated: 7 April 1998





























    See Also:
       Toxicological Abbreviations
       Medroxyprogesterone acetate  (IARC Summary & Evaluation, Supplement7, 1987)
       Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (IARC Summary & Evaluation, Volume 6, 1974)