Vaginal conjugated estrogens (Premarin) are a mixture of estrogen hormones used to treat the vaginal symptoms of menopause such as dryness, burning, irritation, and painful sexual intercourse. Along with other effects, estrogens help females develop sexually at puberty and regulate the menstrual cycle. Progestin lowers the effect of estrogen on the uterus and keeps estrogen-related problems from developing.
Estrogens are given to relieve the signs of menopause (vasomotor symptoms of menopause), such as hot flashes and unusual sweating, chills, faintness, or dizziness. Estrogens treat inflammation of the vagina (atrophic vaginitis) and of the genital area (atrophy of the vulva) by keeping these areas from becoming too dry, itchy, or painful. Estrogens also prevent the loss of bone that begins at the time of menopause. Keeping bones strong decreases the chance of developing weak bones that easily break (osteoporosis). Estrogen use is most effective when it is taken for more than 7 years while you are getting regular exercise and extra calcium. Protection from bone loss can then last for many years after you stop taking the medicine.
Users of conjugated estrogens may experience side effects such as lightheartedness, dizziness, headache, nausea, bloating, weight change, change in libido, and breast tenderness. Immediately consult a doctor or pharmacist in case any of these symptoms persist. Some of the unlikely but severe symptoms may also occur like changes in mood, breast lumps, swollen feet or hands, vaginal bleeding such as spotting and recurrent blooding, unusual discharge in the vagina, persistent nausea, vomiting, increased urination or thirst, worsening incidents of seizure, and dark urine. Conjugated estrogens can make a user dizzy, so women are advised not to drive, operate dangerous machinery, or perform activities requiring alertness.