Premarin 0.625 (conjugated estrogens) is associated with a range of side effects, both common and serious. Patients should discuss any concerning symptoms with their healthcare provider.
Common side effects include:
- Stomach pain, cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, or vomiting[1][5]
- Headache[1][3]
- Back or leg pain[1][3][5]
- Feeling unusually weak or tired[1]
- Breast pain or tenderness[1][2][3]
- Vaginal discharge, irritation, or yeast infection[1][3][5]
- Irregular or breakthrough vaginal bleeding, spotting[1][2][3]
- Hair loss[1][6]
- Fluid retention (edema, swelling)[1][3][4]
- Trouble sleeping[1][3]
- Depression and mood changes[1][3][5]
- Loss of scalp hair or increase in facial hair[5]
Less common or rare side effects can include:
- Vaginal infections or itching[3][5]
- Patchy skin discoloration (melasma)[2][5]
- Changes in sexual desire[2][5]
- Contact lens intolerance[2]
- Increased blood pressure or triglycerides[2]
- Gallbladder disease[2][3]
- Jaundice or liver problems[2][4]
Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)[1][4]
- Signs of blood clots (sudden leg/arm pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, vision changes)[1][2][3][4]
- Signs of stroke (sudden numbness, weakness, confusion, vision/speech problems)[4]
- Heart attack symptoms (chest pain or pressure, pain radiating to jaw or shoulder, sweating)[4]
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, breast lumps[4][5][7]
- Memory problems, confusion, unusual behavior[4]
Long-term or boxed warnings:
- Increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke[3]
- Increased risk of breast cancer and uterine cancer (if taken without a progestin)[3]
- Possible increased risk of dementia for women over 65[3]
It is not always possible to predict who will experience side effects or which ones will occur. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if any symptoms are bothersome, persist, or worsen.
References
- [1] WebMD – Premarin (conjugated estrogens) – Uses, Side Effects, and More
- [2] MedicineNet – Conjugated Estrogens: Menopause Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
- [3] GoodRx – The 11 Common Premarin Side Effects to Know Before You Start
- [4] Drugs.com – Conjugated estrogens Uses, Side Effects & Warnings
- [5] Drugs.com – Premarin Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term
- [6] Pfizer Medical Information – Premarin Intravenous Medication Guide
- [7] Mayo Clinic – Conjugated estrogens (vaginal route) – Side effects & dosage