Panic attacks following Depo-Provera birth control shot

@chrisie23 - According to this, Depo-Provera does not cause panic attacks, but if you are taking anything for anxiety even over the counter you should let your doctor know.

Was it your choice to take this injection, or did your doctor encourage you to do so? It seems it’s very new and it’s effectiveness is not proven although it seems to be a convenient alternative to the pill form.

I have never had panic attacks, till this. So no I was not taking anything for axiety or stress. Depo-provera does cause axiety which can lead to panic attacks from the research I have been doing. What is odd is that I had an echo cardiac panic attack within 2.5h of taking the second shot.

Hello @chrisie23 and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. The timing and onset of the panic attacks does warrant concern so it is good you are researching and advocating for yourself until you are able to find a reasonable explanation.

You will notice I edited your post title slightly to bring in additional members to share their experience and also added this to the Women's Health Group for additional exposure.

Did you know of the potential for panic attacks prior to taking your first shot or did you come across that information after the onset of your first attack?

Can you post the link to the information you found about Depo Provera and panic attacks? My daughter is on this medication and is starting to have panic attacks. She asked her doctor to go off the shot and also told them about the panic attacks. They prescribed anxiety medication and told her to stay on the shot so she isn't having too many two prescription changes at once.

I know this thread is old but I could really use some help. I got the depo shot almost 4 weeks ago because my pre-menstrual and menstrual symptoms were getting out of hand. I decided that depo would be a good option because I wouldn't have to take a pill every day and it would resolve my period issues. However, since then I have turned into a completely different person. I have been in a happy, stable, trusting relationship for 14 years and I have suddenly become EXTREMELY anxious, suspicious, and paranoid about him and everything he does. Even though he's doing nothing differently. I am not a crier but I have cried every day for the last 2 weeks.
I went to the emergency room 2 nights ago because my heart rate was 170, sustained. About a week and a half to two weeks after gwtting it, my heart rate began to elevate to about 110, 120 all day long, until it ended up at 170 and landed me in the hospital. My blood pressure has been spiking.
I followed up with my pcp and they gave me propranolol to help with my heart rate.
I NEVER ever had these issues until this shot. I have never been an emotional wreck, I have never been suspicious of my fiance, I feel insane.
I just needed somewhere to vent. I feel like this was the worst decision I have ever made. I can't believe I have 2 more months of feeling like this. I haven't felt this out of control, sad, alone and unsure since I was a teenager. This is a nightmare.

Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Hopefully there will be responses from folks with similar experiences who are willing to share.

@ml2409, this sounds scary and very unsettling. Some people have reported mood changes, depression, and anxiety while using Depo-Provera, but the evidence that the shot causes these side effects is inconsistent.

You have found a place to vent when these moods strike, and panic or paranoia sets in. Writing it down can help not let it gain control. Has the propranolol helped with the heart rate? Have you found any breathing exercises or calming strategies to help you when you feel the panic coming on?

I had my first and only shot in January and I can relate to most of the things in your post. I’ve recently noticed my heart rate going up to 118. And I’m dealing with anxiety lately. I had a lot of intrusive thoughts. Also not a crier but was crying a lot which led to me canceling my next shot. I was not told of all the side effects. I did read up on it but superficially. I wish I never got the shot.