Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This medication is a combination of two hormones: an estrogen and a progestin. Some brands may contain progesterone instead of a progestin. Both progesterone and progestin function similarly to the natural hormones produced by the body.
Women use this medication to alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, which arise due to a decrease in estrogen production by the body. The inclusion of progestin or progesterone in this medication helps mitigate the risk of uterine cancer, which can be associated with the use of estrogen alone.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally, with or without food, as instructed by your doctor, typically once daily. To prevent stomach upset, you may take it with food or immediately after a meal.
The prescribed dosage is determined by your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment.
Consistently take this medication to derive the maximum benefit. To aid in remembering, take it at the same time each day, following your dosing schedule diligently. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or take this medication more frequently or for a longer duration than directed.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- bloating of the stomach
- change in appetite
- change in sexual desire
- cramps of the lower stomach
- diarrhea (mild)
- dizziness (mild)
- headaches (mild)
- nausea or vomiting
- problems in wearing contact lenses
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- breast lumps or discharge from breast
- breast pain
- changes in vaginal bleeding
- increased breast size or tenderness
- pains in stomach, side, or abdomen
- retention of extra fluid (edema)
- rapid weight gain
- swelling of feet and lower legs
- yellow eyes or skin
Caution
- Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, certain cancers, blood clots, stroke, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, family medical history, family or personal history of a certain swelling disorder (angioedema), blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, high blood cholesterol/triglyceride levels, obesity, lupus, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), mineral imbalance, a certain hormone problem (hypoparathyroidism), uterus problems, gallbladder disease, asthma, seizures, migraine headaches, a certain blood disorder (porphyria) or mental/mood disorders.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco, as estrogens combined with smoking further increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, especially in women older than 35.
- Notify your doctor if you have recently had or will be having surgery, or if you will be immobile for an extended period, such as during a long plane flight. These conditions heighten the risk of blood clots, especially when using an estrogen product. Your doctor may recommend stopping this medication for a period or taking special precautions.
- This medication may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma), which can be worsened by sunlight. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen while outdoors.
- If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, you may experience vision problems or difficulty wearing your contact lenses. Contact your eye doctor if these issues occur.
- This medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor immediately.
- This medication passes into breast milk, potentially reducing the quality and amount of breast milk produced. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Fem HRT is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Fem HRT tablet:
- 0.5 mg / 2.5 mcg
FAQ
Is Fem HRT used for birth control?
No, Fem HRT isn’t used for birth control. It’s used to relieve menopausal symptoms and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
How long should I take Fem HRT?
Fem HRT, like all estrogen replacement medications, raises your risk of some serious medical problems when used for long periods of time. The longer you’re using this medication, the higher your risk is. So it’s recommended to only use Fem HRT for the shortest amount of time necessary.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/femhrt/what-is#faqs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/femhrt#adverseeffects
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ethinyl-estradiol-and-norethindrone-oral-route/description/drg-20061319
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-94574/femhrt-low-dose-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/femhrt.html
