Prempro 0.625mg/5mg Tabs 28 (blue)

Manufacturer PFIZER Active Ingredient Estrogens (Conjugated/Equine) and Medroxyprogesterone(ES troe jenz KON joo gate ed/EE kwine & me DROKS ee proe JES te rone) Pronunciation ES troe jenz KON joo gate ed/EE kwine & me DROKS ee proe JES te rone
WARNING: Do not use this drug to prevent heart disease or dementia. A study of women taking an estrogen with a progestin showed a raised chance of heart attack, stroke, blood clot, breast cancer, and dementia. The chance of stroke, blood clot, and dementia was also raised when the estrogen was taken alone. Not all products and doses were studied. It is not known if the same effects may happen with this drug.The chance of endometrial cancer may be raised with the use of estrogen alone in patients with a uterus. Use of a progestin along with estrogen may lower the risk. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained or long-lasting vaginal bleeding.Use this drug for the shortest time needed at the lowest useful dose. Your doctor will talk with you on a regular basis to see if you need to keep taking this drug. @ COMMON USES: It is used to treat symptoms of low estrogen levels or prevent soft, brittle bones (osteoporosis) after menopause. If you have been given this drug for some other reason, talk with your doctor for more information.
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Drug Class
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
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Pharmacologic Class
Estrogen/Progestin Combination; Estrogen Receptor Agonist; Progestin
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Pregnancy Category
Category X
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FDA Approved
Jan 1999
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Prempro is a medication that contains two female hormones, estrogen and progestin. It is used to treat moderate to severe hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause, and to prevent osteoporosis (thinning of bones) in women who are at high risk. The progestin helps protect the uterus from certain risks associated with estrogen alone.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication Correctly

To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely. Take your medication at the same time every day to establish a routine. Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

Store your medication at room temperature in a dry location, avoiding the bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. You may also want to inquire about drug take-back programs in your area.

Missing a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Do not smoke, as smoking increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, especially when taking hormones.
  • Maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular weight-bearing exercise to support bone health.
  • Discuss any concerns about diet, exercise, or smoking cessation with your healthcare provider.
  • Limit alcohol intake.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: One 0.625 mg/5 mg tablet orally once daily
Dose Range: 0.3 - 0.625 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

menopausalSymptoms: Lowest effective dose for shortest duration consistent with treatment goals.
osteoporosisPrevention: Considered for women at significant risk of osteoporosis who are intolerant of, or contraindicated for, non-estrogen treatments.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment recommended
Moderate: No specific adjustment recommended
Severe: Use with caution; monitor for adverse effects
Dialysis: Not available

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: Use with caution; monitor for adverse effects
Moderate: Use with caution; monitor for adverse effects
Severe: Contraindicated in severe hepatic dysfunction or disease
Confidence: Medium

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Conjugated estrogens (CE) act as estrogen receptor agonists, binding to estrogen receptors in target tissues (e.g., reproductive organs, breast, bone, hypothalamus) to exert their effects. Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is a synthetic progestin that transforms the proliferative endometrium into a secretory endometrium. In combination with estrogen, MPA reduces the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma associated with unopposed estrogen therapy in women with an intact uterus.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Not precisely quantified for conjugated estrogens; MPA is well absorbed.
Tmax: CE: approximately 6-10 hours; MPA: approximately 2-4 hours
FoodEffect: Minimal or not clinically significant

Distribution:

Vd: Not available (highly protein bound)
ProteinBinding: CE: >90% (primarily to sex hormone-binding globulin and albumin); MPA: approximately 90% (primarily to albumin)
CnssPenetration: Limited for CE; MPA does penetrate the CNS

Elimination:

HalfLife: CE: variable, approximately 10-24 hours; MPA: approximately 17-24 hours
Clearance: Not available
ExcretionRoute: Primarily renal (as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates)
Unchanged: Minimal
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Symptomatic relief may take weeks; endometrial effects are more rapid.
PeakEffect: Not precisely defined for clinical effects; related to pharmacokinetic peak concentrations.
DurationOfAction: Related to half-life, requiring daily dosing.
Confidence: Medium

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

Estrogens and progestins should not be used for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or dementia. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study reported increased risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, invasive breast cancer, pulmonary emboli, and deep vein thrombosis in postmenopausal women (50-79 years of age) during 5.6 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg) combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate (2.5 mg) relative to placebo. The WHI Memory Study (WHIMS) reported an increased risk of probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years of age or older during 4 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg) combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate (2.5 mg) relative to placebo. Other doses of conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone acetate, and other combinations and dosage forms of estrogens and progestins, were not studied in the WHI and, in the absence of comparable data, these risks should be assumed to be similar. Estrogens with or without progestins should be prescribed at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:

Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Signs of liver problems: dark urine, tiredness, decreased appetite, upset stomach or stomach pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes.
Signs of high blood pressure: severe headache or dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision.
Signs of gallbladder problems: pain in the upper right belly area, right shoulder area, or between the shoulder blades; yellow skin or eyes; fever with chills; bloating; or severe upset stomach or vomiting.
Signs of pancreatitis (pancreas problem): severe stomach pain, severe back pain, or severe upset stomach or vomiting.
Weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or thinking, changes in balance, drooping on one side of the face, or blurred vision.
Changes in eyesight or loss of eyesight, bulging eyes, or changes in how contact lenses feel.
Breast lump, breast pain or soreness, or nipple discharge.
Pelvic pain.
Vaginal itching or discharge, or abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Depression or other mood changes.
Memory problems or loss.

This medication may cause fluid retention, leading to swelling or weight gain. If you experience swelling, weight gain, or trouble breathing, inform your doctor.

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice signs of a blood clot, such as:
Chest pain or pressure
Coughing up blood
Shortness of breath
Swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm
Trouble speaking or swallowing

In some people with cancer, high calcium levels have been reported with medications like this one. If you experience signs of high calcium levels, such as weakness, confusion, fatigue, headache, upset stomach or vomiting, constipation, or bone pain, contact your doctor right away.

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they persist, contact your doctor or seek medical help:
Feeling tired or weak
Back pain
Headache
Upset stomach or vomiting
Gas
Stomach pain or cramps
Bloating
Enlarged breasts
Tender breasts
* Hair loss

This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Sudden severe headache or migraines
  • Sudden vision changes (e.g., partial or complete loss of vision)
  • Numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Trouble speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood
  • Pain, swelling, or tenderness in one or both legs (especially calf)
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • New breast lump or nipple discharge
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting after menopause
  • Severe abdominal pain
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
A history of certain health conditions, such as:
+ Bleeding disorders
+ Blood clots or an increased risk of blood clots
+ Breast cancer
+ Liver problems or liver tumors
+ Heart attack
+ Stroke
+ Tumors that are sensitive to estrogen
Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
Pregnancy or potential pregnancy. Note: This medication should not be taken during pregnancy.

Additionally, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of:

All prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking
Natural products and vitamins you are using
Any existing health problems

This information will help your doctor determine whether it is safe for you to take this medication in conjunction with your other medications and health conditions. Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

Important Warnings and Cautions

When taking this medication, it is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, about your treatment. Your doctor may instruct you to stop taking this medication before certain surgical procedures, and will advise you on when to resume taking it after the surgery or procedure.

If you have diabetes, you will need to closely monitor your blood sugar levels. Additionally, be aware that this medication may cause high blood pressure, so it is crucial to have your blood pressure checked regularly as directed by your doctor.

High triglyceride levels have been associated with this medication, so if you have a history of elevated triglycerides, inform your doctor. Regular blood tests and bone density checks are also necessary, as directed by your doctor.

It is vital to maintain regular breast exams and gynecology check-ups, and to perform breast self-exams as instructed by your doctor. This medication may affect certain laboratory tests, so be sure to inform all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this medication.

To minimize potential risks, limit your alcohol consumption and avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of heart disease. Discuss your smoking habits with your doctor. If you consume grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit regularly, consult with your doctor about potential interactions.

If you will be immobile for extended periods, such as during long trips, bedrest after surgery, or illness, discuss the risks of blood clots with your doctor. This medication may cause dark skin patches on your face, so avoid sun exposure, sunlamps, and tanning beds, and use protective measures such as sunscreen, clothing, and eyewear.

The risk of certain side effects, including heart attack, stroke, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer, may vary depending on factors such as the duration of estrogen therapy, whether it is taken with or without a progestin, and other individual factors. Discuss the benefits and risks of this medication with your doctor.

If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects. If you are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor about potential risks to your baby.

Osteoporosis

To maximize the effectiveness of this medication, it is essential to combine it with calcium and vitamin D supplements, as well as weight-bearing exercises like walking or physical therapy. Follow the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor to maintain strong bones and overall health.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Breast tenderness
  • Abdominal pain
  • Drowsiness/fatigue
  • Withdrawal bleeding (in females)

What to Do:

There is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical attention. Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison control assistance.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, St. John's Wort): May decrease estrogen and progestin concentrations, potentially reducing efficacy.
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir, grapefruit juice): May increase estrogen and progestin concentrations, potentially increasing adverse effects.
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Moderate Interactions

  • Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine): Estrogens can increase thyroid-binding globulin (TBG), potentially increasing thyroid hormone requirements.
  • Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone): Estrogens may decrease the clearance of corticosteroids, leading to increased pharmacologic effects.
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Estrogens may alter the effects of anticoagulants; monitor INR/PT.
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Minor Interactions

  • Not available

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Complete medical history and physical examination

Rationale: To identify contraindications, risk factors, and establish baseline health status.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy

Blood pressure

Rationale: Estrogens can affect blood pressure.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy

Breast examination and mammography

Rationale: To screen for breast cancer, as HRT may increase risk.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, as appropriate for age and risk factors

Pelvic examination and Pap test

Rationale: To screen for gynecological conditions, including endometrial or cervical cancer.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, as appropriate for age and risk factors

Lipid profile

Rationale: Estrogens can affect lipid metabolism.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy

Liver function tests

Rationale: To assess hepatic function, as the drug is metabolized in the liver.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, if clinically indicated

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Routine Monitoring

Annual physical examination

Frequency: Annually

Target: Normal

Action Threshold: Any significant changes or new symptoms

Blood pressure

Frequency: Annually or as clinically indicated

Target: Normal

Action Threshold: Sustained elevation

Breast examination and mammography

Frequency: Annually (breast exam); mammography per national guidelines

Target: Normal

Action Threshold: New lumps, pain, or abnormal findings

Pelvic examination and Pap test

Frequency: Annually or as clinically indicated

Target: Normal

Action Threshold: Abnormal bleeding, pain, or abnormal findings

Assessment of symptoms and treatment goals

Frequency: Annually

Target: Symptom control with lowest effective dose

Action Threshold: Persistent symptoms, new adverse effects, or desire to discontinue

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • New breast lumps or changes
  • Leg pain, swelling, or tenderness (signs of DVT)
  • Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood (signs of PE)
  • Sudden severe headache, vision changes, slurred speech, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg (signs of stroke)
  • Chest pain or discomfort, pain radiating to arm, back, neck, jaw, or stomach (signs of MI)
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Memory loss or cognitive decline

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Contraindicated in pregnancy. There is no indication for Prempro in pregnancy, and there is evidence of fetal harm.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Potential for adverse effects on fetal development, including genital abnormalities in female fetuses.
Second Trimester: Not applicable, as use is contraindicated.
Third Trimester: Not applicable, as use is contraindicated.
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Lactation

Not recommended during lactation. Estrogens and progestins are excreted in breast milk and may reduce the quantity and quality of breast milk. Potential adverse effects on the nursing infant are possible.

Infant Risk: L3 (Moderately safe; possible risk to infant; weigh benefits vs. risks). May cause decreased milk production and potential hormonal effects on the infant.
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Pediatric Use

Not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

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Geriatric Use

Increased risk of stroke, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and probable dementia in women 65 years of age or older. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals. Careful risk-benefit assessment is crucial.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Prempro is a combination hormone therapy, meaning it contains both estrogen and progestin. The progestin component is crucial for women with an intact uterus to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer associated with unopposed estrogen.
  • This medication is not for the prevention of heart disease, stroke, or dementia. The risks of these serious conditions may outweigh the benefits for some women, especially older women.
  • Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to manage menopausal symptoms.
  • Regular follow-up appointments, including annual physical exams, breast exams, and mammograms, are essential while on HRT.
  • Report any unusual vaginal bleeding, breast lumps, or symptoms of blood clots (e.g., leg pain, chest pain, shortness of breath) immediately to your healthcare provider.
  • Consider non-hormonal alternatives for menopausal symptoms or osteoporosis prevention if risks of HRT outweigh benefits for the individual patient.
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Alternative Therapies

  • For vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes): SSRIs/SNRIs (e.g., paroxetine, venlafaxine), gabapentin, clonidine, fezolinetant (Veozah).
  • For vaginal atrophy: Local vaginal estrogen products (creams, rings, tablets).
  • For osteoporosis prevention: Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate, risedronate), Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) (e.g., raloxifene), denosumab, teriparatide, abaloparatide, romosozumab, calcium and vitamin D supplementation.
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Varies widely, typically $150-$300+ per 30 tablets
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or Tier 3 (for brand); Tier 1 (for generic)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.