Bottles of Depo-Provera, two of three, prepared by Upjohn Ltd., Crawley, Sussex, by Gillette, British, 1979-1981

Depo-Provera is the brand name of medroxyprogesterone acetate. This slow-release contraceptive is seen on the bottom left of the image. Depo-Provera is administered by injection. It is a short-term anti-fertility agent and also treats endometriosis. This is a condition where cells such as the ones in the lining of the womb grow elsewhere in the body causing pain and inflammation. Women use it when other contraceptives are inappropriate. It is also used when a woman has been sterilised but wants a short-term contraceptive until the results of the operation are assured. The bottles were prepared by Upjohn Limited in England.