Premarin increases the risk of developing a condition (endometrial hyperplasia) that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus. Taking progestin, another hormone drug, with Premarin lowers the risk of developing this condition. Therefore, if your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take together with the estrogen. Visit your doctor regularly and report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away.

Estrogen is a female sex hormone necessary for many processes in the body

Premarin is used to treat symptoms of menopause; deficiency in ovary function (including underdevelopment of female sexual characteristics and some types of infertility); some types of breast cancer in men and in postmenopausal women; degeneration of the vagina; and urethra and prostate cancer. In addition, conjugated estrogens are used to prevent osteoporosis.

Special precautions

Do not take conjugated estrogens without first talking to your doctor if you have

• a circulation, bleeding, or blood-clotting disorder;
• undiagnosed, abnormal vaginal bleeding;
• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer

Taking conjugated estrogens may be dangerous in some cases if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Before taking conjugated estrogens, tell your doctor if you have

• high blood pressure, angina, or heart disease;
• high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in the blood;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• asthma
• epilepsy
• migraines
• diabetes
• depression
• gallbladder disease
• uterine fibroids;
• or had a hysterectomy (uterus removed).

You may not be able to take Premarin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Premarin is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that Premarin is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

Premarin may decrease milk flow and have other effects on milk composition. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Side effects

Premarin increase the risk of developing a condition (endometrial hyperplasia) that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus. Taking progestins, another hormone drug, with Premarin lowers the risk of developing this condition. Therefore, if your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take together with the estrogen. Visit your doctor regularly and report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Premarin and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• shortness or breath or pain in the chest
• a painful, red, or swollen leg
• abnormal vaginal bleeding
• pain, swelling, or tenderness in the abdomen
• severe headache or vomiting, dizziness, faintness or changes in vision or speech
• yellowing of the skin or eyes; o a lump in a breast

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Premarin and talk to your doctor if you experience

• decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting
• swollen or tender breasts;
• acne or skin color changes
• decreased sex drive
• migraine headaches or dizziness
• water retention (swollen hands, feet, or ankles)
• problems with wearing contact lenses;
• depression; or
• Changes in menstrual cycle or breakthrough bleeding

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to diltiazem.

Do not let anyone else take your medicines.