Premarin – Conjugated Estrogen for Relief of the Symptoms of Menopause

Estrogen is a hormone produced by the ovaries.  When a woman nears or reaches menopause the ovaries produce less estrogen. For many women, menopause brings with it several uncomfortable symptoms such as weight gain, sleep problems, chills, mood changes, hot flashes, irregular periods, vaginal dryness and night sweats.  Not every woman will experience all of these symptoms, and for some, the symptoms do not last for very long.  Unfortunately, however, many women experience uncomfortable symptoms that can last for months or even years – and it is at this point that women turn to medications such as Premarin for symptom relief.

Premarin contains conjugated estrogens, which belong to the class of medications referred to as estrogen replacement therapy (ERT).  As an estrogen replacement hormone, conjugated estrogen helps women manage some of the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, chills, and abnormal uterine bleeding.  Another benefit of conjugated estrogen is the fact that it may help prevent osteoporosis which may occur due to estrogen deficiency.

Premarin Pills

• Adult dose: 0.3mg to 1.25mg daily

Many patients will begin taking 0.3mg of Premarin daily and, while being monitored, increase the dosage until menopause symptoms have been reduced.  Premarin is taken either daily or in a cycle of 25 days on and 5 days off.  The dose and timing of your Premarin prescribed depends on several factors such as your symptoms, body weight, other medications you are on and other medical conditions you might have. Your doctor will recommend the right dosage for you and monitor your results on a regular basis. Premarin must be taken as prescribed. If you have missed a dose do not double your next dose to make up for it. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor about what to do if you miss a dose or if you go off your regular dosage schedule.

Premarin Vaginal Cream

Premarin vaginal cream is a conjugated estrogen cream that is applied vaginally to provide local relief of menopausal symptoms such as burning, itching, and dryness in and around the vagina, and pain during sexual intercourse.

• Adult dose: 0.5g to 2g of cream daily

Premarin vaginal cream is applied either outside of the vagina and/or in the vagina with an applicator. The cream is used on a regular cycle of three weeks on and one week off.Premarin vaginal cream must be taken as prescribed. If you have missed a dose do not double your next dose to make up for it. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor about what to do if you miss a dose or if you go off your regular dosage schedule.

 

If you are taking Premarin pills you may need to have your dosage adjusted if you start using Premarin vaginal cream.

Women who have not had their uterus removed should speak to their doctor about also taking a progestin.

Who should not take Premarin?

Conjugated estrogen  is not for everyone, therefore it is important to discuss your medical history with your doctor before taking a prescription for Premarin.

• If you have had a stroke
• If you have had a heart attack or coronary heart disease
• If you have liver disease
• If you may be pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• If you are allergic to conjugated estrogens
• If you have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding
• If you have blood clotting disorders
• If you suffer from migraines
• If you have endometrial hyperplasia

Speak to your doctor about possible side effects and warnings associated with Premarin.

If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms that are causing you discomfort or disrupting your life, speak to your doctor.

Further information on Premarin can be found at the following link: Learn More

If you have questions about Premarin or any other medication questions, our discreet and caring team here at Canada Online Health will be happy to answer your questions.  Simply phone us Toll Free at 1-800-399-DRUG (3784).

This article contains medical information provided to help you better understand this particular medical condition or process, and may contain information about medication often used as part of a treatment plan prescribed by a doctor.  It is not intended to be used as either a diagnoses or recommendation for treatment of your particular medical situation.  If you are unwell, concerned about your physical or mental state, or are experiencing symptoms you should speak with your doctor or primary health care provider. If you are in medical distress please contact emergency services (such as 911).

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