Side Effects of the Drug Prempro

Prempro is a vaginal cream that contains a combination of conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone. Drugs.com explains that it is often prescribed to treat the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness and vaginal burning or irritation and to prevent the thinning of the bones. Drugs.com explains that estrogen levels can be restored with the use of Prempro to help the body carry out usual processes. Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic form of progesterone that helps regulate ovulation and menstruation. As with any medication, Prempro has the potential for side effects.

Common Side Effects

EMedTV.com suggests the most common side effects with Prempro include breast pain in 38 percent of women, headaches in 36 percent, abdominal pain in up to 21 percent, back pain in 14 percent and nausea in up to 11 percent.

Less Common Side Effects

EMedTV.com notes effects that occur in fewer than 5 to 10 percent of users, including accidental injury, sinus infections, gas, menstrual cramps, weakness, coughing, yeast infections, diarrhea, leg cramps, vaginal discharge that is white, vaginal bleed or spotting, dizziness and/or breast enlargement. Drugs.com also suggests women are more likely to experience vaginal itching, discomfort, infection, changes in menstrual periods, changes in weight or appetite, acne, increased hair growth, loss of scalp hair, darkening of the skin, nausea, vomiting, bloating and/or a decrease in libido.

Serious Side Effects

Several serious side effects may occur with the use of Prempro. EMedTV.com suggests the following side effects to be rare but serious: breast cancer, ovarian cancer, stroke, heart attack, blood clots, dementia, anxiety, depression, gallbladder disease and/or allergic reaction. Other serious side effects that should be reported to a doctor, according to eMedTV.com, include vision or speech changes, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, severe headache, jaundice, darkened urine, pain in the upper-right section of the abdomen, migraines, breast lumps, pain in the calf, leg cramps, swelling of the foot or leg and/or heavy vaginal bleeding.

Allergic Reaction

Drugs.com suggests medical attention for individuals who experience an allergic reaction. Symptoms include hives, rash, itching, unusual swelling, wheezing and/or difficulty breathing or swallowing.

References

Article reviewed by Bridget Gregory Last updated on: Nov 30, 2009

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