Prempro contains a combination of conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone.These hormones treat certain symptoms of menopause. Prempro can also help prevent osteoporosis, or thinning bones, in postmenopausal women. Drugs.com advises against the use of Prempro therapy in women who have a history of heart attack, stroke, blood clots, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease or any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer.
Breast Cancer
According to Wyeth.com, Prempro therapy increases the risk of developing invasive breast cancer. Conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone together in any form can increase the risk of breast cancer. Therefore, the doctor may prescribe Prempro at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration of time possible. Drugs.com recommends performing breast self-examinations on a monthly basis while using Prempro.
Endometrial Hyperplasia
Prempro increases the risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer, reports Drugs.com. Progestin reduces the risk of endometrial hyperplasia when it's taken with Prempro. Post-menopausal women who experience persistent or recurring abnormal vaginal bleeding while taking Prempro need to have a sample taken of their endometrial tissue to rule out endometrial hyperplasia or cancer, according to Wyeth.com.
Blood Clots
Drugs.com notes that long-term treatment with Prempro increases the risk of developing blood clots. Wyeth.com warns that some women should not use Prempro, including those who have an active deep vein thrombosis, or blood clot in the lower legs; those with a pulmonary embolism; those who have an arterial thromboembolic disease; or those with a history of these conditions. Women further increase their risk of developing blood clots if they smoke or are overweight.
Stroke and Heart Attack
According to Drugs.com, Prempro doesn't prevent cardiovascular problems, and it can actually increase the risk of developing one. Patients who do develop blood clots can also then have a stroke or heart attack. Symptoms of a stroke include a sudden, severe headache; a sudden partial or complete loss of vision; speech problems; dizziness or faintness; and weakness or numbness of an arm or a leg. Symptoms of a heart attack include crushing chest pain or chest heaviness; sudden, severe vomiting; and a sudden shortness of breath.
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