Description
PREMARIN (Conjugated Estrogens) is a medication prescribed to treat a variety of conditions. The approved PREMARIN tablet uses include:
- Prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis for women at significant risk of osteoporosis
- Palliative treatment of androgen-dependent carcinoma of the prostate in men
- Palliative treatment of metastatic breast cancer in certain women
- Treatment of low estrogen due to hypogonadism, castration, or ovarian failure
- Treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy caused by menopause
- Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (night sweats, flushes, and hot flashes)
PREMARIN works by regulating levels of several hormones, including estrogen, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C18H19NaO5S |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
Variable |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Conjugated estrogens |
Elimination half-life |
26.7 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
0.3mg, 0.45mg, 0.625mg, 0.9mg, 1.25mg |
Pregnancy |
Not Recommended |
Brands |
Premarin |
Protein binding |
High |
PubChem CID |
656613 |
MedlinePlus |
a682922 |
ChEBI |
- |
ATC code |
G03CA57 |
DrugBank |
DB00286 |
KEGG |
D04070 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth (Tablets) |
Directions
The dosage of PREMARIN is dependent on what condition is being treated. Take PREMARIN exactly as prescribed by your dose. PREMARIN may be dosed every day or can be dosed in regular cycles.
Take PREMARIN by mouth with or without food.
Ingredients
The active ingredients in PREMARIN are a mixture of conjugated estrogens obtained from pregnant mares' urine. The tablet contains a mixture of sodium estrone sulfate and sodium equilin sulfate.
Cautions
Taking estrogen by itself without concurrent progesterone therapy may increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
Estrogen by itself without concurrent progesterone therapy may increase the risk of stroke and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in women who have gone through menopause.
Estrogen therapy may increase the risk of dementia in postmenopausal women.
Estrogen plus progesterone hormone-replacement therapy may increase the risk of breast cancer.
Side Effects
The most common PREMARIN pill side effects may include:
- Abdominal Pain
- Breast Pain
- Flatulence
- Leg Cramps
- Leukorrhea
- Pruritis
- Vaginal Bleeding
- Vaginal Moniliasis
- Vaginitis
The above side effects were the most common experienced by patients participating in the original clinical trials. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for a full list of side effects.
References
- Premarin [package insert]. Philadelphia, PA: Pfizer; 2011.
Frequently Asked Questions about Premarin (Conjugated Estrogens)
What is Premarin used for?
Premarin tablets have estrogen hormones. They help with menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal changes. They also prevent bone loss in menopausal women and replace estrogen in women with conditions causing low natural estrogen.
How long does Premarin stay in your system?
The duration of Premarin in your system can vary. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized information.
Does Premarin cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a common side effect of Premarin.
How long should a woman be on Premarin?
Estrogens should be used at the lowest effective dose and only for as long as needed. Regularly discuss with your healthcare provider whether you still need treatment.
Is Premarin just estrogen?
Yes, Premarin contains a combination of conjugated estrogens, which are forms of estrogen.
Is it safe to take Premarin long term?
Long-term use of estrogens should be discussed with your healthcare provider. They will consider the risks and benefits.
What to avoid when taking Premarin?
Don't use estrogen for heart disease, stroke, or dementia prevention. Don't use Premarin if you have certain conditions like undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, liver disease, bleeding disorder, history of heart attack, stroke, blood clot, or cancer.
Who should not use Premarin?
Premarin should not be used if you have: undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, liver disease, bleeding disorder, history of heart attack, stroke, blood clot, or cancer of the breast, uterus/cervix, or vagina. Do not use if you are pregnant.
When should Premarin be stopped?
Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on when to stop Premarin based on your individual needs.
When is the best time of day to take Premarin?
Premarin (conjugated estrogens) can be taken in the morning or at night, as long as it is taken at the same time every day.
What are the side effects of Premarin estrogen pills?
Common side effects of Premarin include: Stomach upset or cramps, Nausea, Vomiting, Bloating, Breast tenderness or swelling.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 1733