Drug Uses
Premarin is a mixture of female estrogen hormones that is used to treat symptoms of advanced breast cancer in certain patients. It may also be prescribed to cure certain symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, vaginal dryness or itching), preventing osteoporosis and treating advanced prostate cancer in men.
How it is taken
Premarin must be taken by mouth with food. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.
If you have a surgery coming up, then please stop taking it at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of Premarin then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Storage
Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
Warnings/Precautions
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, if you have asthma (wheezing), a benign breast nodule, bone cancer, depression, diabetes, endometriosis or endometrial (uterine) cancer, epilepsy (seizures), gallbladder disease, heart problems, high blood pressure, kidney problems, liver problems or a history of yellowing of the skin or eyes, lupus, migraines, obesity, pancreatitis, uterine fibroids, thyroid problems or have high calcium levels in your blood, if you are using tobacco, you are going to have surgery, or you will be on bed rest, if you have a family history of high cholesterol, lipid, calcium, or triglyceride levels, or breast cancer, if you have abnormal mammogram.
You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or f you have known, suspected, or a history of breast cancer (unless directed by your doctor) or other cancers that are estrogen–dependent, have abnormal vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, have impaired liver disease, or the blood disease porphyria, had a stroke or heart attack within last year, have blood clots or circulation disorders.
If you are being treated for vaginal menopause symptoms, products applied locally such as vaginal creams, tablets, or rings should be considered before products taken by mouth or absorbed through the skin. If you have other medical conditions and are prescribed estrogens for more than one condition, consult your doctor about your treatment plan and its options.
If you see vaginal bleeding, then consult your doctor immediately because it may be a sign of cancer of the uterus.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Premarin and contact your doctor immediately.
It is unknown whether Premarin is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
Certain drugs can interact with Premarin and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.
Premarin may affect your blood sugar level and may cause dark patches on your face. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur.
should not be used in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.
Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Premarin before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.
Premarin may make you more sensitive to the sun so please avoid the sun, sunlamps or a tanning booth until you know how your body reacts to the drug. If you cannot avoid going out in the sun for a long while, then wear protective clothing or use a proper sunscreen.
Periodic lab tests including a lipmay be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.
It has been noted that elder patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of are abdominal/stomach pain, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, unusual tiredness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.
Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), increased heartbeat, lightheadedness and fainting.
You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.
