depo-Provera
depo-Provera is the trade name for the medication whose chemical name is medroxyprogesterone acetate. depo-Provera is a female hormone which, when given to a man, inhibits the production of testosterone, thus reducing sexual drive. When taking depo-Provera, men are still able to engage in sexual relations, but they do not think about sex as often and their sexual thoughts are not as strong as before. Hence, there is less risk that a man will act out sexual impulses in ways that might get him into trouble.

Side Effects
The most common side effects of depo-Provera are an increase in weight (usually less than five pounds) and a slight feeling of tiredness. These effects are temporary. Infrequent side effects include headaches, upset stomach, leg cramps, and blood clots; these are rare and can be detected and treated by a physician.

Benefits
The principle benefit of taking depo-Provera is that a man may not think about sex as often and will not feel compelled to act on sexual thoughts as he has in the past. Freedom from intrusive, compulsive, or deviant sexual thoughts allows an individual to develop behavioral self-management techniques and to work more effectively on other issues. Furthermore, a reduction in deviant sexual urges allows men to acquire other outlets for their sexual drive and develop nonsexual ways of relating to others. Again, there is less risk that an individual will act out sexually if he is taking depo-Provera.

Evaluation for depo-Provera and other Medications
A staff physician, will obtain a medical and sexual history and then make a determination about whether depo-Provera or another medication is appropriate. This evaluation might include the results of other testing, such as a plethysmograph assessment. If depo-Provera is appropriate for the patient, the physician will review an extensive fact sheet and consent form before prescribing the medication.

Time Course of Treatment
depo-Provera is given by intramuscular injection, usually twice monthly. The amount of medication in the body is monitored from time to time by a blood test to determine the amount of testosterone in the blood stream. Since each person is unique, the duration of treatment varies. Some men may receive depo-Provera for six to eight months while others may receive it for several years or more.

Additional Treatment
depo-Provera (or any other medication) is not a cure for sexual problems. Medication is simply a temporary means to make a person safer to be at large in the community. Therefore, offenders are expected to participate in cognitive-behavioral treatment programs to learn behavioral self-management. These programs might include educational groups, individual counseling, arousal reconditioning sessions, group therapy, or couples counseling.

Other Medications
Certain antidepressants can also be prescribed to reduce sexual drive. These medications are usually less effective than depo-Provera in reducing sexual arousal. When individuals present with a combination of sexual problems and depression, however, an antidepressant may be appropriate.

For further information on this program, please contact The Sexual Abuse Clinic at (503) 238-5580.