Drug Description:
Premarin (conjugated estrogen) is a medication used by women to address symptoms of menopause, such as dyspareunia and vulvar or vaginal atrophy. It is also indicated to treat female hypogonadism, osteoporosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, and primary ovarian failure.
This female hormone medication regulates the pituitary secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and gonadotropins through a negative feedback mechanism. It acts by reducing the elevated levels of gonadotropins particularly in menopausal women.
Directions
Before using Premarin, read the medication or prescription guide that comes with it. Follow the directions as instructed by your physician or pharmacist. This medication is available in two forms: Premarin vaginal cream and Premarin tablets.
If you are using Premarin cream, wash and dry your hands thoroughly before application. Fill the applicator with cream. Then, insert the applicator right into the vagina and push the plunger to release the cream. Clean the plunger with warm and gentle soapy water, and rinse well.
For Premarin tablets, take it orally with or without food. However, if you want to prevent an upset stomach, take it with food or after a meal. Swallow the whole tablet. Do not cut, crush, chew or dissolve the extended-release tablets.
Take this medication regularly to achieve full benefits. Do not increase or decrease your dose unless advised by your physician. To avoid missing a dose, administer this medication at the same time of the day each day.
Side effects
Some of the common Premarin side effects are:
-headache
-nausea
-dizziness
-abdominal cramps
-bloating
-breast tenderness
-weight changes
-increased hair growth
-vaginal itching or discharge
-fatigue
Side effects of this medication are usually mild and do not require medical intervention. On the other hand, some severe adverse reactions to look out for are vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, unusual vaginal discharge, breast lumps, mood changes, persistent vomiting, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and increased urination. If you begin to experience these serious side effects, call your doctor right away.
Precautions
Avoid using Premarin if you have a known allergy to estrone, equilin sulfate, estradiol, or any inactive ingredients this medication may have. Seek emergency help right away if you manifest an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergy are skin rashes, skin hives, severe dizziness, and breathing difficulty.
Talk to your physician about your entire medical history, especially cancer, blood clots, stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, hypertension, diabetes, uterus problem, hormonal imbalance, or seizure. Some medical conditions may affect how your body responds to this drug.
Do not use tobacco or other similar substances while on Premarin. Tobacco may further increase the risk of developing blood clots, stroke, high blood pressure, and heart attack, especially for women 35 and above.
This medication may cause dark spots or freckles on the face. To avoid this, limit your sun exposure and avoid indoor tanning. You may also apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing when going outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Premarin?
Premarin is a medication used mainly by women to reduce symptoms of menopause.
Which is better, Premarin vaginal cream or Premarin tablet?
Both Premarin forms are safe and effective. However, vaginal cream is usually prescribed to address localized symptoms, while tablets could relieve other symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats.
What do I need to do if I miss a dose of Premarin?
Administer Premarin as soon as you remember, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next one.
How long does Premarin take to work?
Usually, you will notice the effects of Premarin after 4 weeks of regular use.
Could Premarin be prescribed to pregnant or breastfeeding women?
No. This medication is not safe, especially for pregnant women.
