Conjugated estrogen

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Conjugated estrogens are a form of estrogen hormones used in hormone therapy. They are often prescribed for the treatment of menopause symptoms and for conditions associated with estrogen deficiency such as osteoporosis. Conjugated estrogens are also used in the palliative treatment of prostate cancer and breast cancer.

Composition[edit | edit source]

Conjugated estrogens are a mixture of several different estrogens (estrogen salts), including estrone sulfate and equilin sulfate. These are obtained from natural sources and blended to approximate the composition of estrogens found in urine of pregnant mares. The exact composition of conjugated estrogens may vary depending on the manufacturer.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Conjugated estrogens are used in several different treatments. They are most commonly used in hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. In addition, they are used in the prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, and in the palliative treatment of prostate cancer and breast cancer.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medications, conjugated estrogens have potential side effects. These may include nausea, bloating, breast tenderness, headache, change in vaginal discharge, mood swings, changes in sexual desire, and weight change. More serious side effects can include breast lumps, unusual vaginal bleeding, dizziness and faintness, changes in speech, severe headaches, chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in your legs, changes in vision, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and stomach pain.

Precautions[edit | edit source]

Before taking conjugated estrogens, patients should inform their healthcare provider about any history of heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, seizures, migraines, diabetes, and any other medical conditions. In addition, they should inform their healthcare provider about any other medications they are taking, as conjugated estrogens can interact with other drugs.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Conjugated estrogen Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD