Premarin is prescribed to treat women with menopausal symptoms or who don’t produce enough hormones. This mixture of estrogen hormones can treat symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and irritation, and prevent osteoporosis.

Premarin can increase your risk of developing heart disease or dementia and should be avoided if you already have these conditions.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and use Premarin exactly as prescribed.

• Premarin is usually taken on a daily basis in cycles, such as 3 weeks on follow by 1 week off.
• Regular physical exams, self-examination for breast lumps, and blood tests are important during Premarin therapy.
• Do not split Premarin tablets.

Premarin may increase chances of developing endometrial problems that can lead to uterine cancer. To reduce this risk, your doctor might prescribe a progestin drug to take along with Premarin.

Before taking Premarin, inform your doctor if you have:

• Previously taken Premarin
• Hysterectomy
• Seizures
• Family history of heart attack, stroke, breast cancer, osteoporosis
• Kidney disease
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Migraines
• Thyroid problems
• Lupus
• High cholesterol
• Porphyria

Common side effects of Premarin include:

• Diarrhea, nausea, constipation
• Acne or skin rash
• Weight gain and increased appetite
• Headache
• Leg and back pain

More serious side effects include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Severe allergic reaction
• Jaundice
• Weakness or numbness
• Breast lumps
• Swelling in hands or feet

How long do I need to take Premarin for?

Your doctor will determine how long you should take Premarin based on your symptoms, age, and other factors.

Can I stop taking Premarin?

Your doctor may want to taper you off Premarin to avoid unwanted side effects. Talk to your doctor before stopping Premarin on your own.

How is Premarin different from other estrogen therapies?

Premarin contains a mixture of several types of estrogens. It may work better or worse for you than other hormone replacement therapies.