What Are the Side Effects of Prempro?

What Are the Side Effects of Prempro?
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Prempro, which contains conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogeterone acetate, is a type of prescription hormone therapy used to manage moderate to severe menopause symptoms in women. This medication is administered orally once each day or as prescribed by a doctor. Questions regarding the potential side effects of Prempro should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist prior to beginning therapy.

Vaginal Bleeding

Treatment with Prempro can cause intermittent or unusual vaginal bleeding in certain women. These side effects may also occur in conjunction with vaginitis--a condition characterized by uncomfortable inflammation of the vagina. With continued use of this medication, side effects of vaginal bleeding will progressively subside. Persistent or severe vaginal bleeding should be immediately reported to a doctor.

Unusual Hair Growth

Certain women experience abnormal hair growth across the face or body as a side effect of treatment. These side effects are temporary and subside once treatment with Prempro ends. Talk with a doctor if unusual hair growth becomes bothersome or problematic.

Breast Discomfort or Swelling

More than 30 percent of women taking 0.625 mg Prempo during clinical trials reported experiencing breast pain as a side effect of treatment, explains the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Sensations of pain or tenderness within the breast tissue can also be accompanied by swelling or fullness. These side effects can persist for several months, but typically resolve with continued use of Prempro.

Mood Changes

Unusual mood changes, such as depression or memory loss, can occur in certain women as side effects of Prempro treatment, explains Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. Mood changes may lead to relationship difficulties with colleagues, family members or intimate partners and should be discussed with a doctor if they occur.

Stomach Upset

After taking a dose of Prempro, certain women may develop an upset stomach as a side effect of treatment. Stomach upset symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, cramping or bloating. Certain women may also experience weight-related changes while taking Prempro.

Dizziness or Headache

Women taking Prempro may experience episodes of dizziness or headache during treatment. Headache symptoms can be uncomfortable and may contribute to difficulty concentrating during daily activities. Sensations of dizziness can cause certain women to become unstable when standing or walking. Women who develop sudden, severe headache symptoms or faint while receiving treatment with Prempro should contact a physician immediately.

Fatigue or Sleeping Difficulties

Sleeping difficulties can arise in certain women as a side effect of Prempro. It may be difficult for women to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. Alternatively, some women may become unusually tired or fatigued while taking Prempro. These side effects can result in increased daytime fatigue, which may decrease a woman's productivity at work.

Leg Pain

Leg pain or cramping was reported by almost 10 percent of women taking 0.625 mg Prempro during clinical trials for this medication, explains the FDA. These painful leg sensations can be uncomfortable and may persist for the duration of treatment.

References

Article reviewed by Alva Dane Last updated on: May 5, 2010

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