Prempro is a type of hormone replacement therapy that contains two female sex hormones called estrogen and progestin. This prescription medication is indicated to treat symptoms associated with menopause, a normal part of a woman's life during which her body begins producing lower levels of estrogen. Women should discuss the potential dangers of Prempro with a medical professional before beginning hormone replacement therapy.
Cardiovascular Disorders
Women taking Prempro are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disorders, such a deep vein thrombosis, heart attack and stroke. These dangers of Prempro are more likely to affect women who smoke, are obese or have a personal or family history of these conditions, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reports. Warning signs of cardiovascular problems include chest or upper body pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, sudden facial or body numbness or difficulty speaking. Women who experience any of these symptoms while taking Prempro should seek immediate medical care.
Dementia
Treatment with Prempro may put women in danger of developing dementia, a condition characterized by a significant decline in cognitive or mental function. In clinical studies for estrogen plus progestin therapy treatments, such as Prempro, 40 women who used this type of hormone therapy for an average of four years were diagnosed with probable dementia, RxList reports. In contrast, only 21 women treated with placebo, a sugar pill, were diagnosed with probably dementia.
Uterine or Breast Cancer
Up to 1 percent of women treated with Prempro develop endometrial hyperplasia, a condition in which large numbers of unusual cells grow along the lining of the uterus, the FDA explains. This condition is a potential precursor of uterine or endometrial cancer. Additionally, women treated with estrogen and progestin hormone therapy are approximately 1.2 times more likely to develop invasive breast cancer than women who do not receive this type of therapy, according the FDA. Women who choose to use Prempro should receive regular screening for both uterine and breast cancer to ensure early cancer detection and treatment if such conditions arise.
Side Effects
Treatment with this form of hormone replacement therapy can cause side effects in women. These side effect dangers may include stomach upset, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, fluid retention, skin discoloration, menstrual cycle changes, breast pain or enlargement, sexual libido changes or headache, PubMed Health reports. With continued use of Prempro, these side effects progressively subside over time. Women who experience severe side effects, such as stool, urine or skin discoloration, double vision, depression, diminished appetite, fever or extreme fatigue, should seek care from a medical professional immediately.
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