Q: What is Prempro?
A: Prempro is a medicine that contains two kinds of hormones: estrogens and a progestin. Prempro is given to postmenopausal women who have not had hysterectomies to: reduce hot flashes; treat vaginal dryness, itching, and burning; and, help reduce chances of getting osteoporosis (thin weak bones). Progestin reduces the risk of endometrial cancer in women.

Q: What is the most important information I should know about Prempro?
A: The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study found an increased risk of breast cancer, heart disease, non-fatal heart attacks, and blood clots in women taking Prempro long-term. If you are or were taking Prempro, you should have yearly physical exams and examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis. Do not take Prempro if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Q: What should I tell the doctor if I want hormone replacement therapy?
A: Tell your doctor if you suffer from any of the following: hot flashes; sleep disturbances; menopause-related mood changes; vaginal dryness; night sweats; fatigue; joint pain.

Q: Who should not take Prempro?
A: Do not take Prempro if you have: a circulation, bleeding, or blood-clotting disorder; liver disease; undiagnosed, abnormal vaginal bleeding; or any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer. Do not take Prempro if you think you are, or plan on becoming, pregnant.

Q: How many postmenopausal women take estrogen alone or estrogen plus progestin?
A: Prempro's manufacturer estimates that approximately 10 million postmenopausal women are taking some form of estrogen, either alone or in combination with a progestin.

Q: What are the possible side effects of Prempro?
A: Menstrual periods beginning again, including changing menstrual bleeding pattern for up to 6 months (spotting, breakthrough bleeding, prolonged or heavier vaginal bleeding, or vaginal bleeding completely stopping by 10 months); vaginal itching or irritation, or thick, white vaginal discharge. Less common side effects include sharp chest or lower leg (calf) pain, breast lumps, severe headache, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, severe stomach pain or swelling, abnormal vaginal bleeding, mild dizziness, nausea and fluid retention. Other, more serious risks associated with Prempro, are discussed elsewhere.

Q: What are the increased risks for women taking estrogen plus progestin?
A: The results of a five-year study show that of every 10,000 women per year taking Prempro, there would be: 8 more cases of breast cancer, 7 more cases of heart attacks, 8 more cases of stroke, and 18 more cases of blood clots in the lungs and legs.

Q: Are there any risks that were found to be lower in women taking estrogen plus progestin?
A: The results of a recent five-year study showed that of every 10,000 women per year taking Prempro, there would be: 6 fewer cases of colon cancer; and 5 fewer cases of hip fracture.