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Conjugated estrogens

Brand names: Premarin, Prempro (with medroxyprogesterone), Duavee

Conjugated estrogens relieve hot flashes and vaginal dryness after menopause and help prevent bone loss.

Brand namesPremarin, Prempro (with medroxyprogesterone), Duavee
Type of medicineEstrogen hormone
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

People with a uterus usually also need a progestin. The vaginal cream treats local dryness with less body-wide effect.

What it's used for

  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Vaginal dryness (cream)
  • Preventing osteoporosis

How to take it

  • Use the lowest dose that helps, and review it yearly with your provider.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Breast tenderness
  • Spotting
  • Headache
  • Bloating
Call 911Chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, or signs of a stroke
Call your provider todayPain or swelling in one leg
Call your provider todayVaginal bleeding after menopause or a new breast lump

Warnings

  • Boxed warnings: uterine cancer (without a progestin), stroke, blood clots, breast cancer, and dementia in some older women.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Some seizure medicines and St. John's wort lower its effect.
  • Thyroid medicine needs may change.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used during pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.