$Unique_ID{BRK01950}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{ESTROGENS, CONJUGATED}
$Subject{conjugated estrogens (various manufacturers)
Premarin (Ayerst)}
$Volume{}
$Log{
Premarin 0.3*0195001.scf
Premarin 0.625*0195002.scf
Premarin 0.9*0195003.scf
Premarin 1.25*0195004.scf
Premarin 2.5*0195005.scf}

Copyright (C) 1991 Publications International, Ltd.


ESTROGENS, CONJUGATED
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BRAND NAMES (Manufacturers):
     conjugated estrogens (various manufacturers)
     Premarin (Ayerst)
TYPE OF DRUG:
     Estrogen
INGREDIENTS:
     conjugated estrogens
DOSAGE FORM:
     Tablets (0.3 mg, 0.625 mg, 0.9 mg, 1.25 mg, and 2.5 mg)
STORAGE:
     These tablets should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed
       container.

USES

     Conjugated estrogens are a group of estrogen-like products obtained from
natural sources (the urine of pregnant mares).  They are used to treat
menopausal symptoms, prostatic cancer, uterine bleeding, and some cases of
breast cancer.  They can also be used in replacement therapy for women who do
not produce enough estrogen of their own.

TREATMENT

     In order to avoid stomach irritation, you can take conjugated estrogens
with food or immediately after a meal.
     Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when you take this
medication.  Often, conjugated estrogens are prescribed to be taken for
three-week periods, with one week off (in order to reduce potential side
effects).
     If you miss a scheduled dose of this medication, take the missed dose as
soon as possible, unless it is almost time for the next dose.  In that case,
do not take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing
schedule.  Do not double the next dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Acne, bloating, change in sexual desire, depression, diarrhea, dizziness,
headache, loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting.  These side effects should
disappear as your body adjusts to the medication.
     This medication can increase your sensitivity to sunlight.  You should,
therefore, try to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and sunlamps.  Wear
protective clothing and sunglasses, and use an effective sunscreen.
     If you feel dizzy or light-headed, sit or lie down for a while; get up
slowly from a sitting or reclining position, and be careful on stairs.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about side effects that are persistent or particularly
bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about changes in
menstrual patterns; chest pain; difficulty in breathing; eye pain; loss of
coordination; lumps in the breast; painful urination; pain in the calves; skin
color changes; slurred speech; sudden, severe headache; swelling of the feet
or ankles; vision changes; weight gain or loss; or yellowing of eyes or skin.

INTERACTIONS

     Conjugated estrogens interact with several other drugs:
     1. Estrogens can decrease the effectiveness of oral anticoagulants (blood
thinners, such as warfarin).
     2. Carbamazepine, ampicillin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, and
rifampin can increase the elimination of estrogen from the body, thus
decreasing its effectiveness.
     3. Estrogens can increase the side effects, and decrease the
effectiveness, of the tricyclic antidepressants.
     Before starting to take conjugated estrogens, BE SURE TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR
about any medications you are currently taking, especially any of those listed
above.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
any medications, especially to conjugated estrogens, to oral contraceptives
(birth control pills), or to any other estrogen product.
     * Before starting to take this drug, tell your doctor if you have ever
had asthma, blood clot disorders, breast cancer, diabetes mellitus,
endometriosis, epilepsy, gallbladder disease, heart disease, high blood
pressure, hypercalcemia, kidney disease, liver disease, migraines, porphyria,
uterine fibroid tumors, vaginal bleeding, or depression.
     * Studies have shown that estrogens increase the risk of certain types of
cancer.  Ask your pharmacist for the brochure "Information for the Patient."
It is important that you understand the possible risks and benefits of this
medication.  If you have any questions, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Although it is not known if estrogens can increase the risk of breast cancer,
it is important that you examine your breasts regularly for lumps or
discharge.
     * If you notice tenderness, swelling, or bleeding of your gums, consult
your doctor or dentist.
     * Estrogens can cause a change in glucose tolerance in diabetic patients.
If you are diabetic, be sure to tell your doctor if you notice any
abnormalities in your urine or blood glucose levels.
     * Do not change your brand of medication without the consent of your
doctor.  If your refill does not look the same, consult your doctor or
pharmacist.
     * Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious side effects from
estrogens.  The risk increases with both age and the amount of smoking.
     * If this medication makes you dizzy or light-headed, do not take part in
any activity that requires alertness, such as driving a car or operating
potentially dangerous equipment.
     * Estrogens can change your blood's clotting ability, so be especially
careful to avoid injuries.
     * Before having surgery or any other medical or dental treatment, be sure
to tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication.
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  If you suspect you
are pregnant, discontinue use of this medication immediately.  Several studies
have shown that estrogens taken during pregnancy can cause birth defects.
Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant.  Estrogens pass
into breast milk.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
