Premarin is prescribed to help alleviate some of the problems that come with the onset of menopause as women age. It comes in two forms – Premarin Vaginal Cream is a cream containing conjugated estrogens that can be used to alleviate discomfort in the skin around and inside the vagina, as well as loss of bone density (osteoporosis). Premarin oral medication is a tablet containing conjugated estrogens that boost the body’s estrogen levels. It is prescribed to treat menopausal symptoms such as sudden sensations of increased heat over the face, neck, and chest (hot flashes) and osteoporosis.
What causes the conditions for which Premarin is used?
As women mature and pass through their breeding years and into menopause, usually around their mid-forties, estrogen levels in their bodies decrease steadily. This may lead to a sensation of increased heat over the face, neck, and chest (hot flashes) and a gradual loss of bone density.
Due to lower estrogen levels, there may be changes inside the vagina and on the labia. The condition can cause sensations of dryness, itching or burning. It can also cause discomfort during sexual intercourse. Lower bone density means that a person is more prone to breakages in case of a fall or sudden impact.
The usual treatment is known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It works to boost estrogen hormone levels in both in menopausal women and in women who have had their uterus removed (because the uterus is the source of natural estrogen).
How does Premarin work?
Premarin belongs to the class of drugs known as estrogen derivatives. It contains conjugated estrogens and provides the hormone boosts needed in HRT. It works by supplying the estrogen hormones that have been reduced in menopausal women.
Premarin tablet form, will reduce the incidence and degree of discomfort coming from hot flashes and slow down the rate of osteoporosis. There is also evidence that the drug provides protection against heart disease.
Premarin vaginal cream works to directly deliver estrogen into the skin surrounding and inside the vagina. Due to lower estrogen levels during menopause, the skin can become dry, causing the sensations of itching and burning. The dryness can also cause discomfort during sexual intercourse. Premarin vaginal cream will reduce the irritation directly. It will soothe the affected areas around the vagina that have become irritated, dry or inflamed due to the fall in estrogen levels. It also boosts estrogen levels in the skin where it is lacking, so that the symptoms are lessened.
How to use Premarin Vaginal Cream
Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the cream and after use. Clean and dry the vagina and surrounding area, and then apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area. Do not apply Premarin to any open wounds or broken skin.
How to use Premarin Oral Medication
Premarin oral tablets come in three strengths – 0.3mg, 0.625mg and 1.25mg. Doctors normally start off by prescribing lower dosages for a while and may gradually increase until a satisfactory result is seen.
If you have forgotten to take a daily tablet, it should be taken as soon as you remember, but if more than one day’s dose has been forgotten, only take the most recent tablet – do not double-dose to make up for other missed pills.
Don’t divide, crush, or chew tablets – take them whole.
Side effects of Premarin
Premarin is a very safe and thoroughly tested medication. There are very few long-lasting or severe side effects. However, if you experience any side effects for more than a few days, or they worsen, you should consult with your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.
Some common side effects of Premarin Vaginal Cream may include:
- Flushing around the affected areas (redness, warmth, or tingly feeling)
- Vaginal itching or discharge
- Breast pain
- Changes in the menstrual cycle
- Breakthrough bleeding
- Nausea
- Excess gas with stomach pain
- Headache
- Pelvic pain or back pain
- Depression, insomnia or sleep problems
The more severe side effects are very rare, but if you notice any of the following symptoms, discontinue the medicine immediately and go at once to your doctor:
- Breast lumps
- Unusual and persistent vaginal bleeding
- Changes in vision or speech
- Sudden onset of severe headaches
- Severe pains in the chest or legs, which may be accompanied by shortness of breath, weakness and fatigue
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or face
