Premia Continuous

Uses
Premia Continuous (Conjugated Oestrogens/Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) is used for hormone replacement therapy and is made from combining 2 different active ingredients. It works by acting in the same way as the hormones that the female body would normally produce prior to the menopause. The conjugated oestrogens contained in this medicine consist of naturally occurring oestrogens combined with other substances. Oestrogen is a female hormone which plays an important role in the urogenital system of women.

However, as a direct result of the menopause, the amount of oestrogen that the ovaries produce decreases. This in turn can produce symptoms such as perspiration, hot flushes, and vaginal dryness. In order to relieve or slow down the progress of these symptoms, your doctor may recommend HRT (hormone replacement therapy). Women with a uterus will need to take a progesterone alongside oestrogen, so as to prevent endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. For this reason, medroxyprogesterone is added to help prevent the occurrence of this. Doctors have also used tablets to prevent osteoporosis in high risk female patients.

Dosage and Administration
Treatment with Premia Continuous (Conjugated Oestrogens/Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) generally occurs as a 28 day cycle in which one blue tablet is taken daily. Patients who are not currently undergoing HRT may be directed by their doctor to commence treatment on a day that is best suited to them. Patients who do not have periods regularly might be directed to begin taking the medicine on a Monday. Always follow the instructions provided by the doctor during treatment, and remember that you may be instructed to take a lower strength tablet by your doctor at some point in the future, depending on your response to treatment.

Side effects
Women taking Premia Continuous (Conjugated Oestrogens/Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) should note that side effects are possible, including:

• Spotting
• Tiredness
• Digestive upset
• Cramps in the legs
• Sore or enlarged breasts

Report all reactions to your doctor. The list of side effects given here is not complete, and patients need to be aware of the fact that other reactions are possible. Have a full and frank discussion with your doctor so that you can be aware of all the possible side effects. Go to the hospital straight away if any serious side effects occur.

Precautions
Regular checkups will be ordered by your doctor. These include breast checks, pap smear tests and blood pressure monitoring. Do not miss any medical appointments that your doctor schedules for you.

Should hospitalisation occur, it is important to notify any doctor who treats you that you are currently taking this medicine, as it may put you at an increased risk of blood clots if you are undergoing a surgical procedure or bedbound for an extended period of time.

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 Premia Continuous (Conjugated Oestrogens/Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) 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.