Premarin

Uses
Premarin (Conjugated Oestrogens) tablets contain a mixture of female hormones (oestrogen hormones). Women are prescribed this medicine to treat and relieve symptoms caused by the menopause, and in some cases, it may be used as a second line treatment to help prevent osteoporosis in women who have already gone through the menopause. Ocassionally, this product may be prescribed to pre-menopausal women whose ovaries do not produce sufficient oestrogen, and it may also be given to men and women to treat the symptoms of certain cancers.

The ovaries cease oestrogen production when a woman is aged between 45 and 55 years of age. Some women may experience uncomfortable and unpleasant symptoms as a result of decreased oestrogen levels. These symptoms include sudden waves of body heat and sweating, dryness of the vagina, vaginal itching and other symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy with this medicine treats these symptoms by replacing the decreased oestrogen levels.

Dosage and Administration
Premarin (Conjugated Oestrogens) comes as tablets. In most cases, you will be told by your doctor to take one tablet each day. It is best if you take each dose at the same time. Remember that if you miss any doses, you should take it as soon as you possibly can. However, if your next dose is due to be taken soon, you should skip the dose that you missed, and return to your normal dosage schedule. You must not take 2 doses together. Doctors generally prescribe the lowest effective dose possible, to be used for the shortest period of time. Regular medical appointments will be scheduled to determine whether or not you should continue treatment.

Side effects
Patients who are being treated with Premarin (Conjugated Oestrogens) may experience side effects, such as:

• Migraine
• Hair loss
• Changes in body weight
• Spotting or vaginal bleeding
• A yeast infection affecting the vagina

While this medication is being taken, you are advised to tell your doctor about any side effects you notice. Some reactions are serious, and require immediate medical attention. Examples of this include peripheral oedema, blood clots, severe headaches, liver problems and lumps on the breast. Other examples which have not been listed here may also occur.

Precautions
Your doctor may direct you to have a breast check as well as a pelvic exam and a mammogram during the course of treatment.

Patients affected by hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, or those who are overweight or smoke are at an increased risk of heart disease while taking this medicine.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Premarin (Conjugated Oestrogens) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.