Description

Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate Injection IP is a long-acting synthetic progesterone used mainly in obstetrics.

What it is
A progestin hormone injection (often called 17-OHPC)
“IP” means it follows Indian Pharmacopoeia standards
Common uses
Primarily used to reduce the risk of preterm birth in pregnant women who have had a previous spontaneous preterm delivery
Sometimes prescribed for certain hormonal support situations (less common)
How it’s given
Injected intramuscularly (usually in the hip/buttock)
Typically administered once weekly
Treatment often starts between 16–20 weeks of pregnancy and continues until about 36–37 weeks
Important safety note (very important)
There has been significant debate and regulatory change:

The brand Makena was withdrawn in the U.S. (2023) because studies did not clearly confirm benefit
However, in some countries (including parts of India), it may still be prescribed selectively
Possible side effects
Injection site pain or swelling
Nausea
Headache
Rare: blood clots, allergic reactions
Who should not use it
History of blood clots
Certain liver diseases
Hormone-sensitive cancers (like breast cancer)
Bottom line
This injection is not a routine pregnancy medicine—it’s used only in specific high-risk cases and should be taken only under a gynecologist’s supervision.

If you’re asking because it was prescribed to you, I can help you understand whether it makes sense in your situation—just share a bit more context.