Premarin (Conjugated Estrogen)

Description

Indications

Conjugated estrogen contains female hormones and is prescribed to women to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Menopausal symptoms are typically the result of decreased estrogen production in the body. Certain estrogen products may also be prescribed to postmenopausal women to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis).

Uses and Dosage

Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication orally, with or without food.

To prevent stomach upset, taking it with food or directly after a meal may be recommended.

Extended-release tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved, as this can cause the entire dose to be released at once, increasing the risk of side effects. The tablets should be swallowed whole.

The appropriate dosage of this medication will be determined by your medical condition and how you respond to treatment.

Take this medication consistently to receive the maximum benefit. To assist with remembering, take it at the same time(s) every day as prescribed. Follow the dosing schedule carefully, and do not exceed the recommended dose or take it more frequently or for longer than advised.

Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens while taking this medication.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• breast pain or tenderness
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• heartburn
• constipation
• diarrhea
• gas
• weight gain or loss
• leg cramps
• nervousness
• depression
• dizziness
• burning or tingling in the arms or legs
• tight muscles
• hair loss
• unwanted hair growth
• spotty darkening of the skin on the face
• difficulty wearing contact lenses
• swelling, redness, burning, itching, or irritation of the vagina
• vaginal discharge
• change in sexual desire
• cold symptoms

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• bulging eyes
• pain, swelling, or tenderness in the stomach
• loss of appetite
• weakness
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• joint pain
• movements that are difficult to control
• rash or blisters
• hives
• itching
• swelling of the eyes, face, tongue, throat, hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• hoarseness
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

Caution

Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you may have, including allergies to inactive ingredients that may be present in the product.

Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have had vaginal bleeding of unknown origin, certain cancers (such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer), blood clots, stroke, heart disease, liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, obesity, lupus, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), mineral imbalances, a specific hormone problem (hypoparathyroidism), uterus issues, gallbladder disease, asthma, seizures, migraine headaches, a blood disorder (porphyria), or a mental or mood disorder (like dementia or depression).

Smoking or using tobacco products should be avoided while taking this medication. The combination of estrogen and smoking increases the risk of blood clots, high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke, particularly in women older than 35.

Inform your doctor if you have recently undergone surgery or will be immobilized for an extended period. Such circumstances increase the risk of blood clots, particularly if you are taking an estrogen product. You may need to discontinue using this medication temporarily or take additional precautions.

This medication may cause discoloration, or melasma, on your face and skin. Sun exposure can exacerbate this effect. Limit your exposure to the sun, avoid tanning beds and lamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.

If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, this medication may cause vision problems or difficulty wearing your lenses. Contact your eye doctor if you experience any issues.

Children may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication. It may affect their growth and development. Discuss with your doctor the possible consequences of this medication, and periodically monitor your child’s growth.

This medication is not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or think you might be, contact your doctor immediately.

This medication is excreted in breast milk and may diminish the quality and quantity of milk produced. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Premarin is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Premarin tablet:
  • 0.3mg
  • 0.45mg
  • 0.625mg
  • 0.9mg
  • 1.25mg

FAQ

How long does it take Premarin to start working?

You may get relief as soon as 4 weeks.

Will taking Premarin reduce belly fat?

Recent studies show that menopausal women on hormone therapy tend to have less body fat, especially visceral belly fat. Because estrogen affects how your body distributes fat, low estrogen levels can contribute to gaining fat in your belly area.

Resources

1. https://www.premarin.com/about-premarin#:~:text=You%20may%20get%20relief%20as,menopause%2C%20as%20compared%20to%20placebo
2. https://herkare.com/blog/belly-fat-reduction-estrogen-replacement-therapy/#:~:text=How%20Estrogen%20Replacement%20Therapy%20Can,fat%20in%20your%20belly%20area
3. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/premarin
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-76336/premarin-oral/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682922.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/premarin.html