Pros and Cons of Premarin Cream

I have been using Premarin Vag Cream since my bilateral oophorectomy (ovaries removed) in 1980. I was unable to use the pills (got migraines) or the patch (blisters on skin under it). Cream has relieved the dryness.
When I stopped using the cream (due to the panic about estrogen after results from a study were released) I began to grow a mustache, along with return of the vaginal dryness. I resumed use of the cream!
I have heard reports from two friends using the cream, who have BiPolar Disorder, that if they use too much of the cream, they become very irritable.

I used a compounded vaginal estrogen cream for a couple of years then went to a topical cream also compounded. I couldn't tell a lot of difference in how I felt but then I'd been through menopause about 14 years before and took Premarin. I read several articles about estrogen and it seems no matter what type of estrogen one uses then it is still "estrogen" and if one has a family history of breast cancer then maybe a doctor's advice should be sought out.

Message: I have a lengthy history of urinary tract infections (UTIs) that occur approximately every five months. I have seen a few urologists and had bladder scan, CT abdomen with contrast cystoscoy and SMA 7 blood tests which are all normal. Both my current urologist and my gynecologist are pressuring me to start Premarin vaginal cream. Due to the fact that my mother, her sister and my sister have all had breast cancer and I have had thyroid cancer, I have refused.

Last month at my gyn annual exam my doctor insisted that the vaginal cream does not get absorbed into the blood and will not promote breast cancer. When I refer to all the warnings in the pamphlets and Internet research my doctor got very angry and said the warnings are for the “old HRT” and do not pertain to the vaginal cream.

My doctor went on to say that the medication I have to frequently take for the UTIs are more dangerous than the estrogen in the vaginal cream. I filled the prescription for Premarin but found in the literature insert under side effects the top one is “Breast Cancer”. None of this makes sense to me and I do not know which path is the correct one.

I have always been told with my family history to avoid all estrogen, even soy products. I don’t want to be foolish by damaging my health by the continual UTIs. I called our local cancer hospital and they could not offer any suggestions.

I am in the same situation except I get UTIs more often than you do. My doctor says the same thing and I'm also afraid. I purchased the Premarin and read the insert. Not happy and looking for more advice.

I am curious about the suggestion to use this medicine to correct the UTI's? I have not gone through menopause - I am 48 and still have periods but over the last several months have had symptoms of dryness, itching and UTI symptons right before my period but no evidence of UTI. My doctor also suggested this medicine. I have just started it and the symptoms were gone immediately. I have no history of breast cancer but of course I am concerned about this. However, the relief is pretty amazing.

At my last gyn appt. it was recommended (again) that I use premarin cream. I am 51 yrs old, have not had a period since I was 44. I am single and not sexually active for the past 8 years.

My mother was diagnosed three years ago with breast CA, resulting in mastectomy and chemo. I am hesitant to use this cream as I have not experienced any symptoms. My physician tells me the amount that is absorbed into the bloodstream is minimal so therefore the cream is safe, she also recommended rather than inserting the cream, it can be used topically.

My question is, is there anything homeopathic that can be substituted for this cream? Although I'm not sexually active at this time, there is always the possibility in the future and I do think that sex would be painful.

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: WITH NO SYMPTOMS, IT IS NOT CLEAR YOU NEED TREATMENT. MANY WOMEN REPORT THAT EDIBLE OIL (COCONUT OIL, OLIVE OIL) APPLIED TO THE VAGINA CAN HELP, WITHOUT THE ADDITION OF ESTROGEN. A GOOD LUBRICANT DURING SEXUAL ENCOUNTERS IS ALSO ADVISED, IF YOU BECOME SEXUALLY ACTIVE.

What is the difference between inserting Premarin with an applicator and applying it topically?

I am a Premarin user. The quality of my life is very important to me. I'm 65 y/o, active in business, have a great social life, I'm in love and I'm happy. Once or twice a new doctor on staff has tried to lower and then remove my 1.25mg twice a day with horrible results.
*Pus filled acne from nose to pubic area
*Insomnia
*Body aches
*Hair coarsens
*Skin coarsens, darkens
*Mustache, beard develop
*Cry,Cry, Cry
*irritable
*Personality changes to dour & unfriendly
*I look in the mirror and see an old woman coming apart at the seams.

Yes, I would like to live to 100 years old IF MY QUALITY OF LIFE IS PRESERVED. To replace quality with the list above is so unfair to me. This should be my choice. Those who take other forms of HR, lucky you! I've tried several, all with poor results.
Just want you to know that there are some who consider this the very essence of life. I'd also like to add that I love horses and want to support any movement to acquire this chemical synthetically.

Just want to know if there is anything else but Premarin that does the same thing, I'm without insurance because of laid off and $169.00 is very high to pay.

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: ESTROGEN COMES IN A NUMBER OF FORMS TO TREAT VAGINAL DRYNESS: ESTRING, ESTRACE, OR VAGIFEM AS WELL AS PREMARIN.

I HAD a hx of UTis. I had them regularly all my life, but in 1998 I had 8 separate incidents requiring medication, including two trips to the emergency room for pain and bleeding from the urethra.

I heard about a doctor recommending premarin cream, got some, started using about once a week. In three months I was asymptomatic. I have had one bladder infection since then (following surgery and extended catheterization) - in 12 years! Besides, now I do everything "wrong", such as have intercourse, wear tight jeans, sit in the car for long drives- all things that guaranteed an infection before I started with the premarin. It was a godsend. I now use it once every other week.

This had nothing to do with hormone levels- it is some local action of the cream. I was 44 when I started and did not have menopause until 55.

Hello, I am like you, with a period but my doctor says that my vaginal lining is thinning. I have used premarin cream for 2 days now. How long does it take to notice a difference?

Thanks

I am a 54 year old married woman, about 3 years ago I had a stroke and have since recovered. About a year ago, suddenly my period left and realized I'm in the menopause stage. I didn't realize I would get dryness and pains during intercourse afterwards.

I had been avoiding sex because of the pains. My doctor prescribed premarin cream, but I have been holding back. I am worried since reading the side effects of the prescriptions. Even though it's been over 3 years since the stroke, am I not a candidate to use this product? Also, over 13 years ago ( at 41 y/o), I had Toxic Shock Syndrome, and it was a staphe infection in the female area. At that time, I had only used a tampon for a few days, and ended up with Toxic Shock. My Gyn physician knew about my situation, but may have forgotten my history. Please advise if I should be using this or something else?

P.S I was told by my doctor that once I start using it, that I must continue forever. If I should stop, I don't want those side effects that others are experiencing. Again, please reply Thank you.

Hi,
I had vaginal atrophy which is severe vaginal rawness just because I am pre-menopausal. I will tell you that Premarin has made such a huge difference. Pharmacists know more about medicine reactions more that doctors and my pharmacist said, as long as I don't use it for long term. A dose of 0.5 Premarin for 7 days to start and then one time a week or maybe every 10 days.

I can't even explain the torture I put up with for a year before my gynecologist prescribed this.

Wish you the best, Doris

I have lichensclerosis and also am susceptible to UTIs. Will the premarin cream applied topically help or hurt?

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROIDS HAVE BEEN STUDIED AND FOUND HELPFUL: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20522071
TOPICAL ESTROGEN SUCH AS PREMARIN CREAM HAS ALSO BEEN USED: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20354420

I had a sister die from lung cancer that traveled to her brain, one that died from breast cancer, a sister that died from a blood clot. MY FATHER DIED OF LIVER CANCER. I had an ovary removed and a ovarian cyst at nineteen. I am now through menopause and am having a lot of UTIs. My ob/gyn has put me on premarin vag cream. I'm not to use the applicator; I'm just to put it on the tip of my finger just inside the vagina. I'm not sure this is the way to go at sixty-three. Is there anything else I could do?
The main reason for the treatment is thinning of my vagina walls. Thank you

I used to get lots of UTI's too. The best thing to do is stay away from the complexity of hormones, and visit your local pharmacy or health food store for a better dose of magnesium and selenium than you are now getting. It not only works for me but lots of others too--ask around.

I have used Vagifem 25mg for years with no problem. I am 64 years old. My Dr. recently changed Rx to premarin cream, use of 1 gram twice weekly. My mom suffered from breast cancer, and had a mastectomy. I am afraid to use this stuff. Any suggestions? I already have too many health problems. Thanks

Also was just prescribed premarin for vaginal dryness and thinning of my vaginal walls. My mother had breast cancer at about my age now, 57 years old and past menopause. Should I start using it? Am worried. Thanks

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: YOU DON'T SAY IF IT IS PREMARIN CREAM OR ORAL PREMARIN. MOST DOCTORS WOULD SUGGEST THE CREAM, APPLIED LOCALLY, IS ALL RIGHT. IT IS ABSORBED INTO THE BLOOD STREAM, HOWEVER, ALTHOUGH THE DOSE IS LOWER THAN THAT IN THE PILLS.

SOME WOMEN REPORT SUCCESS AT EASING VAGINAL DRYNESS WITH TOPICALLY APPLIED OLIVE OIL OR COCONUT BUTTER.

I'm wondering how long does it take for "Premarin" to work on the vaginal dryness?

I'm 62, very active, healthy, and have a great social life. For the first time in 21 years I'm in love and I'm truly happy. For years I used black cohosh, primrose oil and a cream (yam) for hot flashes and all of them worked, but I'm now fighting vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. I've tried using ky's and other over the counter lubricants.... nothing has helped. I finally spoke to my doctor and she has put me on Premarin cream. I have to use it for 30 days, 3 times a week before I can have intercourse. I'm so glad to have found this site and read the experiences all of you have had. It has helped me with my decision to use the Premarin cream. I want this new chapter of my book to be the best yet. Good luck to all of you and the decisions you make.

I was just prescribed Premarin Cream and my doctor says to only use twice a week---I didn't ask what time of day to apply it-hard to get a hold of her--If i should apply on exterior (docs orders) it in the morning it will just wipe off on my panties and wipe off while wiping after urinating--and how long after using this will it begin to work?

Bunny, put it on at night so it will have a chance to absorb. It will 'wear off' during normal activities the next day. I do use an applicator to put the cream in, not too far, just inside. The local effect it has on my urethral opening has stopped all the bladder infection I was plagued with prior to using the cream. I had improvement in six weeks, and now only use it once a week w/ no return of symptoms.

I've been using Premarin cream for a little over a month in preparation for vaginal surgery. I've noticed that, on the days I use it, I have a lot of pain in my pelvic area, back and leg aches and now, my lower back and belly itch. I also have a slight rash. Is this a side effect from the premarin? I only use a dot on the outside.

I am 53. I was prescribed premarin cream and used it for two weeks before starting the one or twice a week dosing I know have a fine sandpaper rash on my neck and face -yikes. Could this possibly be from the premarin cream? I do not ever have a rash on my face. So far have not noticed premarin cream helping at all.

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: RASH IS A POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECT OF PREMARIN CREAM. PLEASE CHECK IN WITH YOUR DOCTOR.

You may have Interstital Cystitis. I thought I had recurring bladder infections for years. I'd take pyridium and antibiotics to no end! I later discovered my bladder lining was thinning out and my urine was essentially burning my bladder. IC also increases your risk of UTI's. While I take estrogen to help it sounds as if you need to try every other alternative out there first. While IC can be difficult, there are different treatments for it. Please visit your urologist and ask about being tested for IC. 90% of the afflicted are women and it is not uncommon in the peri- or post-menopausal years.

I turned 40 four months ago and in the last 2 years (after my IUD was taken out) I have not had a period and get a UTI every time my husband and I have sex. I have been to a urologist-- had the cystocopy and a sonogram on my kidneys. I am on Bactrim for 3 months. in the meantime I also went to my GYN and had a host of tests done and yesterday found out that I am IN MENOPAUSE!!!

She has prescribed me Premarin and Activella! I am so worried about taking both and I still have one month left of Bactrim. I have a bunch of menopause symptoms, but the only one I cannot handle is the constant UTI's, plus I am a first grade teacher which makes it virtually impossible anyway. Should I just start with premarin and see how it goes???

I used the premarin alone for years pre menopause to prevent UTIs. When I STILL had my monthly at 55, I started taking the activella to end it. Love the Activella, anecdotally, it has improved my memory.

I am 50 & going thru menopause for the last year. Still get my period whenever it feels like surprising me (may be 1 to 3 months between) and is much lighter than it ever has been. Sometimes it only lasts literally for a couple of hours. Because of painful intercourse (no problem with lubrication, just vaginal tightness and rigidity) and resulting UTI's, I started Premarin cream 0.5 grams twice per week just a week ago.

Yesterday, my period came following some old-fashioned bloating and mildly painful breast tenderness like when I was younger. I am wondering if this heavier period is due to the estrogen in the tissues now... Appreciate any comments.

My wife just started using this. How bad is this for me as a male as I am sure I am ingesting some of it.

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: ALLOW SEVERAL HOURS BETWEEN APPLICATION AND FOREPLAY. IF YOU WERE EXPOSED ON A REGULAR BASIS IT COULD INDEED HAVE NEGATIVE EFFECTS.

NC, I had been using the premarin since I was 45. I don't believe that much estrogen gets into your system from the premarin, it just has a localized effect on the vaginal tissues.
That said, I was still having a 28 day cycle regular period at 55. I believe it is the FSH level that determines when your period stops and testing revealed my level was 'normal'. My MD took pity on me and prescribed Activella, which stopped my periods. I liked the side effects, sharper memory and better bone density, so I am still taking it.

My period stopped three years ago. I tried lubricant beads, no success, intercourse has become very painful. My Dr. gave me premarin cream, but I am scared to use after reading the info included with the cream. Is there something safer that I could try?

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: SOME WOMEN FIND COCONUT OR OLIVE OIL HELPFUL. IT IS APPLIED BY HAND. FIND MORE INFORMATION BY SEARCHING THIS WEB SITE.

Your body gets a lot of Premarin, almost as much as the pill (estrogen) that you would take by mouth.

Is Premarin cream applied several hours before intercourse, but only then, instead of regularly, effective at preventing vaginal dryness during intercourse?

I am 57, post menopausal. When I went for my regular check-up my pap smear came back with irregularities. I have had 2 more pap smears since then (in 1 year) that have come back with irregularities. My GYN wants to put me on Premarin before doing the pap smears but I am reluctant. I have no 'conditions' that I need help with. I feel fine. My problem is the negative results of the pap smears. I don't understand how the Premarin can help with that. I feel like I will create problems where there are none. I have had the ?scopy done and nothing showed up on it and I am willing to have it done again. Am I being over cautious?

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: PREMARIN IS USED FOR SYMPTOM RELIEF; SINCE YOU DON'T HAVE SYMPTOMS, WE DON'T SEE HOW THE PREMARIN WOULD BENEFIT YOU.

My gyn prescribed .5mg premarin 2x a week for a month and then 1x a week. I have used it about 3 weeks and find I want to cry for no reason. Can feel a chemical like depression taking me over. But I think it really did help with the vaginal dryness, discharge and frequent urination. Especially helped with the discharge I was having. Age 51, last period a year ago.

Would it help if I took less? OR did not insert the cream but use it outside?? I tend to insert it deeply, is that a mistake?

I just started taking .625 premarin with a dose of .5mg twice a week. It seems to make my fibromyalgia flare and makes me feel fuzzy mentally. Is this normal? I am 60 years old and was prescribed this for painful intercourse. Is there anything else I can take?

The following symptoms can be signs of the serious health conditions listed above. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms while you are using vaginal estrogen: sudden, severe headache; sudden, severe vomiting; speech problems; dizziness or faintness; sudden complete or partial loss of vision; double vision; weakness or numbness of an arm or a leg; crushing chest pain or chest heaviness; coughing up blood; sudden shortness of breath; difficulty thinking clearly, remembering, or learning new things; breast lumps or other breast changes; discharge from nipples; or pain, tenderness, or redness in one leg.

You can take steps to decrease the risk that you will develop a serious health problem while you are using vaginal estrogen. Do not use vaginal estrogen alone or with a progestin to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, or dementia. Use the lowest dose of estrogen that controls your symptoms and only use vaginal estrogen as long as needed. Talk to your doctor every 3 to 6 months to decide if you should use a lower dose of estrogen or should stop using the medication.

I was diagnosed with uterine and ovarian cancer last year. After a complete hysterectomy and 6 months of chemo (and now 5 months later), I talked to my gyn/oncologist about the dryness issue. He prescribed premarin cream. He said it's a very low dose estrogen and is not really absorbed into the bloodstream... the pills are a different story and are not advised for someone like me who has had a hormonal cancer. He told me that the risk of developing breast cancer from this is incredibly small (and he's the head of the department and a GYN/oncologist for over 25 years).

I started the cream tonight and we'll see how it goes. I am looking forward to spending time with my husband and not having to fuss with awkward creams that ruin the moment and quite frankly, don't work well enough and leave me bleeding afterwards. UGH.

I am 57, married and we are casually sexually active. No cancers or other medical issues. I have suffered from severe pain with intercourse which has definitely been an issue in our marriage for 10 years.

I have tried Ky jelly, (and other makes), numbing creme, vagifem and progesterone pills. Nothing has worked. I recently applied premarin creme externally for 1 month, smoothed along the lip of the vagina and it is working phenomenally well. I am going to cut back, to once a week, but now I never want to go back. Painful sex is extremely stressful. I will watch for rashes etc. I find soy products make me extremely irritable, but not this creme so far. I'm finally happy, but my husband does not want me to take it for health reasons. Sheesh! We'll see how it goes.

I have been taking premarin vaginal cream twice a week for three weeks. I have just noticed a small amount of blood when going to the bathroom. Could the vaginal cream cause vaginal bleeding?

At the recommendation of my gyn, I began using Premarin vaginal cream May 9, every day until May 30, then twice a week. I now have cramps, my face is breaking out, my mind is doing strange and NOT wonderful things, I am retaining fluid (becoming a human balloon),which of course raises my blood pressure (already high, take meds for that)! At age 66, I am beginning to wonder if the rusty discharge, occasional large dark clots and cramps were perhaps the smaller price to pay instead of trying to treat severe atrophic vaginitis (I had a hysterectomy at age 33, plus took right ovary)!

My mother has had 3 surgeries for cancer (both breasts and vulvar cancer, her brother lost both kidneys to cancer). With Rheumatoid Arthritis, I already take more meds than I prefer; adding to the mix with even more side effects at this point in my life seems just not worth it. If I sound "testy", it must be the Premarin vaginal cream! From comments, it appears that I am not alone in being skeptical about using this medication, even though it seems to work well for some.

You dosage is frequent. After attaining relief from my vaginal/urethral symptoms, I use the cream about 3xmonth which is now adequate for maintenance.

My sister had a liver transplant in January 2010, with complications that knocked out her kidneys and now needs a kidney transplant. She has had chronic UTIs since the liver started going out (she got a blood transfusion tainted with hepatitis C virus in the early 1980s during emergency surgery). She is constantly on antibiotics for the UTIs and they just keep coming back. The transplant clinic just started her on Bactrim instead of the previous antibiotic.

Coincidentally, her gynecologist recently started her on Premarin cream for thinning vaginal walls, and tonight she was in so much pain from the UTI (the pressure, the burning, the urges) she applied some Premarin Cream just to see if it made a difference and the pain stopped almost immediately.

We are going to see her urologist next Tuesday, and will definitely ask about Premarin for relief of UTIs. And of course any contraindications for her new liver and her end stage kidney disease. But tonight, maybe even all night long, she won't cry from the pain of the UTI.

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: BACTRIM IS AN ANTIBIOTIC OFTEN USED FOR UTIs. WE WISH YOUR SISTER WELL.

I was prescribed Premarin cream following a urethral sling operation. I am now a month post op, finishing up the cream, and ready to begin trying to conceive. Will I run the risk of problems conceiving due to recent Premarin therapy?

I am a 61 year old female who has been suffering from frequent UTIs for the past 6 years. Recently I had a cystoscopy performed by a urologist who said all was well with the bladder but that I had a cystocele. I was referred to a gynaecologist and although I do have a cystocele it is quite small.... his concern was that I have atrophic vaginitis and prescribed premarin cream Ig for 7 days and then 1g twice weekly which he thinks will also help with the UTI's.

My concern is that although there is no cancer in my medical history as such I do have an illness which predisposes me to blood clots and the treatment for the illness is immunosuppressants which predispose me to cancer. I am not sexually active and did not realize I had a problem there.... my main concern is the UTI's as my autoimmune disease rendered my kidneys to be functioning at only 50% and so I cant afford to get a kidney infection.

Over the counter natural progesterone cream is available in my country and apparently does not have these side-effects. I am concerned though as I am aware that over the counter drugs are under researched and have found very little feedback on natural progesterone cream on the internet. Anyone tried it?

Been there crying with pain, saved by the premarin. Best of luck to your sister.

Thank you for your kind words. After the visit to the urologist today, we walked away with a new prescription for Premarin. Her doctor said that it is certainly true that if your vaginal walls are too thin, you can burn your bladder when urinating, although she is treating this as a UTI. Since my sister has ESRD, her "urination" is different, although she did leave a sample and we do go back to urologist next week.

Her doctor put her on a week of strong antibiotics, a very strong cranberry supplement, and the Premarin cream. We followed someone's advice from above (there are so many great comments!): the one where you if you use a little dab of Premarin on the tip of the finger applied near or just inside, it can help to ease the pain and the overall discomfort of the UTI. The urologist agreed that this was an excellent idea. Again, bless you for your kind words.

There are so many who have received good results from the Premarin cream, and that is wonderful. Aside from the questionable usage due to family history, as well as my own (milk ducts removed from right breast because of bleeding), the benefits for me just did not seem worth the results, particularly since I had no hx of UTIs. No one could figure out the bleeding source (vaginal vs bladder/kidney), so in my opinion, Premarin was just something thrown at the symptoms to see if it would work!

After reading my own comments from June 8, I called my Dr and told her the symptoms I was having and we agreed that I should discontinue using the Premarin cream, at least for now. As of today, my face is clearing up, the fluid retention has not yet subsided, however I am hopeful, and my mind does not feel so "foggy". Perhaps there are those of us who simply cannot use this medication, which works so well for others. Cramps are also not as strong or as frequent, so I will wait and see what another Premarin-free week brings, and let my body settle back down. Thanks to all for shared experiences ... makes some things easier to understand!

I am 83 years old have been taking .625 premarin for 20 years. Dr. put me on .3 mg. and then took me off and after 1 month. I feel terrible. Hot flashes and trouble sleeping. I want to start .625 mgs again. I would like a better quality of life. Am I to old to start them again?
thank you

I am 57 yrs./o and have recently been diagnosed with RA (rheumatoid arthritis) I have just started Orencia IV infusions. I am also taking prednisone, methotrexate, synthroid, and pristiq. Several mo ago before my RA diagnosis my Dr. started me on premarin cream. I used it a few times but got scared of the estrogen so I stopped, but I am desperate now as I am post menopausal, I have no sex drive at all and when my husband and I have intercourse it is so painful I can barely take it.

I want to be there for him and I also feel I need some pleasure in my life. RA being an auto immune disease scares me, especially when it comes to cancer. Any advice on how to boost my sex drive and cure vaginal dryness without cancer causing chemicals?

I need something that really works..... please help.
Thank you

You may want to try one of the over the counter lubricants, KY Jelly and there are many other brands.

I'm 56 and I've just had a full hysterectomy due to a prolapsed uterus and also a bladder tack. Now my Dr. wants me to apply premarin cream to the vaginal area once daily. After reading all the side affects I'm not sure this is a good idea. I've been in menopause for about 3yrs. with no real problems.

So what IS the point of using this? I'm assuming for vaginal dryness but didn't have this problem before surgery. On top of this I'm going to the beach in two weeks and it says avoid being in direct sunlight while taking this medicine!!!! Please advise. I haven't started it yet and have a call in to my Dr.

Why haven't they come out with a generic brand for Premarin Vaginal Cream?

Why Isn't Generic Premarin Vaginal Cream Available? FOUND THIS, HOPE IT HELPS

Premarin Vaginal Cream is a complex natural product. It contains several different estrogens in various amounts. For this reason, it would be difficult to create a generic medication that is exactly like Premarin Vaginal Cream. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will not approve any generic versions of Premarin Vaginal Cream until several requirements are met. Most importantly, the exact composition of the cream must be fully evaluated. This is difficult, because it is not clear which components of Premarin Vaginal Cream are "active" ingredients and which are not. Any potential generics must be shown to be identical to Premarin Vaginal Cream in terms of the content, dose, and absorption of these active components.

I am 75 years old and suffering from a rectocele with vaginal prolapse. I was fitted with a pessary and given a prescription for premarin cream. I have since had a heart attack with 2 stents andmininal damage. Should I or not use the premarin cream. If so why???

My Dr. prescribed me premarin to use on a perineal scar resulting from childbirth that is still painful 5 months later. Anyone ever heard of using this cream for such a reason? And if yes was it helpful? Is it safe to use while breastfeeding?

I have a sister who had estrogen related breast cancer. I have had cystitis like symptoms all of my life, now have very severe vulvodynia, and, post-menopausal wondering if premarin or estrace cream would help.... I have tried almost everything else and am in horrible pain, constantly. Please answer, I am feeling so hopeless.

Will the Vaginal cream relieve the hot flashes I've experienced when I've stopped taking the Premarin pills (.30)?

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: PROBABLY NOT. IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO PROVIDE THAT MUCH ESTROGEN.

I too was diagnosed with RA... one year ago. Started Remicade infusions about 4 months ago. Am going for my 5th infusion next week. The last infusion I had I was sitting with the IV hooked up and felt the UTI come on over the period of 2.5 hours. I had been prescribed the premirin cream for vaginal dryness (intercourse) and uti's ...

I took it twice a week and got very depressed. Took it 1x week and stopped when I got the UTI.. I am going to start it again. Just once a week and see what happens. The concern is that the Remicade is suppressing my immune system and the UTIs will become more frequent. When you have a UTI or are on an antibiotic, you are not supposed to get the infusion (postpone) which results in more RA pain. Ultimately NO WIN situation.

I am doing bladder infusions now... sigh... will let you know if they help. I rarely have infections, just pain... so not sure it is really technically "cystitis."

I wish my urologist ran some tests... I always feel I have something "brewing" down there.
I am so nervous about the next infusion.

You need a urogynecologist.... I have to admit, as of this week, the bladder infusions are useless.... any codeine makes me constipated and makes it worse... (I have had rectal surgery) I am ready to give up.

I have been using Premarin for about two months now. I experience something that I have not seen discussed yet. After inserting the cream vaginally before bedtime, I tend to discharge the cream on the days following, until the next application. I use the cream twice a week. Is my body just not absorbing the cream? Is this normal?

That is normal. The estrogen is a component of the cream which is absorbed, the other ingredients are just the vehicle for the estrogen and are discharged over time.

I cannot use premarin, I guess, as my sister had estrogen based breast cancer at a very young age.... is that correct? (sigh)

Hi, I just came from my doctors and "my instructions"for the cream, was to "apply at bedtime." Put some on your fingertips and gently "rub" into the vulva area.
Also, when washing that area, do not use a washcloth, use your hands. Pat gently dry your privates area. Rough towels/washcloths can cause more irritation. He also suggested using vegetable or olive oil during intercourse it you are having "discomfort" during intercourse.

Ky Lubricants are "water based", so they tend to "dry quickly" , so use the vegetable/olive oils. I even use non perfumed "baby oil. I agree with "aboves" comments. Quality of life is more important than "a longer life with pain & discomfort"... If you read all labels on all approved drugs... They scare you to death! Follow your gut and "listen to your doctors advice.

PEOPLE'S PHARMACY RESPONSE: WE ARE FANS OF OLIVE OIL AS A LUBRICANT, BUT CAUTION THAT IT WILL RUIN LATEX SO IS INCOMPATIBLE WITH A CONDOM OR DIAPHRAGM.

In addition to all the pros and cons already mentioned about using Premarin, there remains for me the original problem of how Premarin is manufactured. As much as I'd like to improve my quality of life, I refuse to use a product that gets to market through the inhumane treatment of horses. To make truly informed decisions about using Premarin-related products, we owe it to ourselves to understand where and how these drugs are made.

Premarin is made from pregnant mare's urine. Very often, the mares are kept in poor condition and given little water so that there is a higher concentration of urine. They keep the mares pregnant, and when they give birth, the foals are quickly sold off and seen as cast-offs.

I am 52 yo, and menopausal at age 47, my Gyn prescribed premarin vaginal cream to use 4g every day for 3 weeks and stop for 1 week for 4 months. I stared last week, but when I search in this website (and others) I didn't find any woman using that much, please help, is my gyn wrong? (I am using it for dryness only) thanks every one.

According to Wikipedia's description of Premarin, the years of intense scrutiny and criticism of the old methods of producing horse estrogen from Pregnant Mare Urine farms resulted in an overhaul of the industry.

Seems like a lot! I use 1 1/2 gram 1xweek and it has maintained the desired effect for me (no urethritis or bladder infections).

I've been using premarin twice a day for almost a month. 2 months ago I gave birth and got a 3rd degree tear that didn't heal correctly, resulting in a pea sized hole :( *kind of embarrassing* doc looked at it and prescribed me to this cream but I haven't noticed a change. I'm almost done with this tube and have 1 refill. Should I finish this tube and if nothing changes call the doc again? or get the script refilled and see what happens then??

I have been prescribed .625 Premarin Vaginal Cream @ 1 gram 2ce/wkly. for several years now. At first I rarely used it but my symptoms which were just like yeast infections increased over the months. I was miserable. My discharge looked like it was filled with tiny fat globules. I finally, this past year, came to understand that I was experiencing symptoms of vaginal atrophy.

I began using, as prescribed, and found relief for months and then the symptoms returned. I began cutting down the dose to .5 and used it every 2 to three days. Again, I had relief for months but the symptoms returned again. The itching and discomfort through the vagina may reduce somewhat after taking the cream but very soon the itching becomes a real issue.

I manually pull out the cream when it gets down from where I shot it up (I have put it very high into the vagina) because the seeping is so irritating). Currently those fat globule mimics have returned and are increasing in number. I have wondered if I am allergic to Premarin. After reading the above I feel concerned about using it at all. (I awaken with lower abdominal pains all the time and am told I have irritable bowel syndrome, now I wonder if it's related to the cream. I have those cramps now as I write, but it's awakening with them that is the most troublesome.)

In the late 80s I began having what felt like cystitis but confined to urethra. It was horrid. I had lots to do and lots of water to drink. Impossible. I saw a urologist who had NO idea what to do. No infection. Thus the water torture. In one of my group meetings I was directing a woman noticed me going to bathroom every few minutes and later told me she recognized the symptoms.

She gave me the name of another urologist. I went, and it appeared this thing just had to be endured. I was sick about that. I was really in a mess. As I was going out the door he said "Oh BTW, there are some new findings I just remembered..." He told me what was wrong [lack of estrogen to vagina, urethra and more]. He started me on the cream. Two weeks later it kicked in. I had to use it daily, just a tiny bit right on urethra. Peace arrived. But I had to always use the cream.

In 2002 there was a tiny speck in my breast [mammo], and it was VERY early cancer. Got it. It might have gone unnoticed and calcified, but we got it anyway. I just had doctor remove breast [bit overboard, but we decided together it was a good idea]. NO hx of cancer in family. Did well. Stopped the cream. Few months ago my "old friend" started again along with VERY tender skin of all areas plus all of vagina. Put on cream. Both of my wise doctors assured me it was very safe as not very much is absorbed [and others have said the same thing], not to worry, and to get the misery "down there" stopped.

I use it after voiding. If I don't drink enough I get the "itis" but it is slowing after about three weeks now. I probably can back off in a bit. I find that a bit of Calmoseptine is excellent until help arrives. I'm 74, and I don't want another cancer, but I also MUST get out and about. I have FMS/IBS severely, and I'm trying to get it under control so for both reasons I have got to weigh quality of life against cancer I don't expect.

I am scanned every so often for gut problems from surgical errors made during a vaginal hyst in 1997 that necrosed and I had two huge surgeries to repair the mistakes, so an early Ca would show on CT scans as this is both a cancer AND a breast center here. I cannot live with urethritis 24:7 so I'll take a chance and I do trust these doctors. I might add that the entire area is so sensitive I don't like to even touch any part of myself. All due to this not so wonderful aging process.

I too have RA (diagnosed in 2007) and took Arava for 3 years. Arava is very similar to Methotrexate as an immunosuppressent; the normal dosage is 20mg but I only took 10mg daily. It took almost 3 months for the Arava to take effect, but afterwards my joints felt great, I could sit on the floor, do housework, etc., things I dreaded doing before. I was 64 when I started taking Arava. After about 7 months I started having UTIs at least monthly, was almost constantly on antibiotics, had to go to the ER several times, had MRIs, CT scans, cystoscopies, you name it.

When not having a UTI, I took low dose antibiotics daily to try to prevent them but they seldom worked for more than 6-8 weeks. My Rheumatologist insisted the Arava had nothing to do with my UTIs and would not agree to reduce my dosage as this would have been 'off label'. After more CTs, my urologist decided I had a colovesicle fistula (a small tube attaching the colon to the bladder) which allowed bacteria to enter the bladder. He sent me to a surgeon who wanted to operate the next week. I didn't like him and went to a different surgeon and a different urologist. They did all the same tests over and could not find any sign of a colovesicle fistula but couldn't find any other cause for my frequent UTIs.

Soooo, I started taking the Arava every other day, and although my joints didn't feel quite as good, I did not have UTIs for 4 months -- it was glorious. Then I had 3 UTIs in a row, 3 months in a row. I then decided to totally stop my Arava even though I truly loved the way I felt when I took it! I felt I had a choice -- my bladder or my ankles. It's been 6 months now and I haven't had another UTI although I do still take a 100mg Macrodantin every evening, but I hope to stop that after I see the urologist again next month. I don't know what to do about my RA but it is wonderful to be able to make plans without having to worry about whether I'll have a UTI at that time.

The nurse practitioner prescribed premarin for me, the reason given is to "plump up the tissue around the cervix" as I had a PAP come back ASCUS. I am post-menopausal, 54 years old, and I do experience a little dryness.

My sister had breast cancer, my mother died of cancer, primary site unknown, but metastatic liver cancer killed her. I had irregular vaginal bleeding when I had a cortisone shot for frozen shoulder. I brought up all these issues with the gyno, but she said I wouldn't get bleeding, and not to worry about breast cancer, as only a small amount of the premarin was absorbed.

I read the entire insert--and am now more unsure than ever. I go for my re-PAP in mid-December and don't know if I should do this or not. I, too, had a colposcopy come back as normal last year.

I was 72 when my doctor prescribed Premarin Vaginal Cream. I use 1 gram about twice a week. I had a hysterectomy in my late 40's and soon had vaginal atrophy. Sex was painful so I abstained. I met someone and wanted to have a complete relationship and so began using the Premarin. It was heaven-sent - it made a huge difference. I am now nearly 76 and am in a wonderful relationship with a virile, handsome 62 year old. My life is complete.

I have no side effects that I know of. I am currently unhappy though, with the non-availability of the 42.5 gram size. I was getting 2-42.5 gram tubes from Canada for $54. Now I will be paying $66 for 3-14gram tubes. That is more than a doubling in price per gram.

I have the same concerns. My aunt had breast cancer, the type that is fueled by estrogen. My doctor also becomes angry when I talk about the risks and my doctor also says it is not absorbed into the system, but it is and it says so on their website. But I am 45 and have been post menopausal for 4 years and have atrophy. Just now started having the UTI symptoms and possible UTI. Very bad dryness and much much pain during intercourse. And was just prescribed Premarin. I think I am going to try it at a very low dose for only 2 times per week for a while. But I am scared. I am so confused.

SK, I would get a second or third opinion. Estrogen is absorbed into your blood stream and I do understand your concerns. Shame on your doctor for getting angry.

I have gone the rounds on the estrogen including "natural estrogen." I asked several doctors including gyns about cream vs. pills. With a small amount of cream for atrophic problems [vaginal and urethral] there is no problem I am told as it is nothing like a pill. Cream is just tiny bit and most is not absorbed but helps vaginitis. Pills not good for someone with breast cancer [I've had it].

I got nasty urethritis and urgency in the fall [again] and was put back on Prem Cream. It began to help until I sensitized to it this time. I'm to try vit. E or maybe I'll check out other creams. I was told to use it after urination. I'm temporarily using Calmoseptine cream [very soothing] until I find what works. But I'm sick about whatever is in the cream now bothering me as I used it for years before in my early 50s.

Now I'm 74, and to be comfortable and get over the urgency with it's problems for me, I have got to find what works like estrogen cream. [Never should a doctor show anger. That's unethical behavior.] Wishing you the best. Oh, drink a lot if you feel like you have a bladder infection. It helps a LOT.

This is what Dr.Susan Loves (Breast Expert) says...

Vaginal estrogen can be very effective in treating dryness. There are a number of methods currently available for taking estrogen vaginally. Two options are Premarin cream and Estrace. Both are very well absorbed. Some women think that because you apply the cream only inside your vagina, none of it will get into the rest of your body. This isn't the case. Some of the estrogen is absorbed into your blood. In fact, both Premarin and Estrace raise your blood levels of estrogen much the same as estrogen pills.

I am a 59 year old who is post-menopausal. I have been experiencing vaginal dryness for a few years now and have used Replens with some success. It doesn't seem to be working as well as it had and my doctor just prescribed estrogen cream. I am very worried about this. I do not have any history of cancer in my family but don't want to take a chance. I have read all the studies. Anyone else worried as I am?

Yes, I am worried as you are. I read that they have stopped selling Premarin in the UK. I am not 100% sure this is true but reading the insert is enough to scare one to death.
I also wonder how long you can use Premarin and be safe. (Is that even possible.)
It is dangerous only if used long term? I wish we could find out more.

My doctor prescribed Premarin Cream for vaginal atrophy but he said to use only half an applicator-ful once a week. His medical assistant has been using that amount for years and she says that's been enough to do the trick for her. I've used it for only two weeks now and haven't given it a "road test" yet but will let you know how it works out in the bedroom.

Anyway, my point is that the amounts you all are using sound like a lot to me if less will suffice. When I read all the dire warnings that came with the cream I panicked and phoned the doctor, but was reassured that that small an amount would do absolutely nothing in the way of side effects. So those of you have concerns might want to try using less and seeing how that works.

I am a 50 year old woman in menopause. I went to my gyn for HRT because I am having bad insomnia, mood swings, and anxiety (hot flashes too, but they are the least of my concerns). He prescribed Premarin cream 1/4 applicator full every night for the first two weeks, and then every other night after that. Is anyone else using the cream like this? How long would it take this way to have an effect?

I agree with you! I was wondering, are you taking Premarin in pill form or cream?

I am a pathologist with specialty expertise in pap smears. When women become post-menopausal their vaginal lining becomes atrophied (immature and thinned) and this often causes the painful intercourse; atrophy is a very common cause of abnormal pap smears, as it can be sometimes difficult to tell atrophic changes from truly pre-cancerous changes. The reason your doctor wants you to try the estrogen cream is because if the abnormality on the pap smear is due to atrophy, it will resolve after you use the cream, because your cells will respond to the estrogen by maturing.

If the abnormality is due to a true pre-cancerous condition (dysplasia, CIN, SIL) it will persist and the cream will have no effect. You should not be afraid to use this cream, if only on a trial basis, to resolve the abnormal pap smear problem. Otherwise you may end up getting biopsied and more tests for no reason. Also, be sure and ask your doctor if a high-risk HPV test was done on your abnormal pap smear specimen. If that is negative, you shouldn't need any treatment at all.

I have no sexual feelings for my husband as I am going through full-blown menopause as my dr. tells me but my husband wont wait forever. He is 46yrs.. & I AM 55yrs. will using the cream give me verility again? And will it help build up my thinning vaginal walls? I miss intercourse also but I go thru burning,itching&bleeding(plz help)!!!)

People's Pharmacy response: Sex doesn't always have to mean intercourse. Finding ways to satisfy him until you can get through this temporary time is a good challenge.

Premarin cream will certainly help with the vaginal dryness, but we do not know if it will help you regain your libido faster.

The premarin restored my ability to have intercourse, but not the desire. I take a testosterone /DHEA prescription from my gynecologist and although it took a long time (11 mo) it did restore my libido- not like I was at 20- but sufficient for a healthy married life.
Talk to your gyn about this. Also, I did not have any negative effects (such as facial hair) from the dose I take.

I tried using premerin. Besides feeling guilty on how they made the product....I itched terribly after using. Stopped using after one week. It is terrible how the horses are abused getting the horse urine. Hope the FDA steps in soon.

I had a hysterectomy and waited 6 weeks till sex. I used to be a sexual demon and now it was excruciatingly painful. I didn't want my husband near me. I got the premarin cream and use it 2 times a week. After 3 weeks of this .........ta da I am back to being a sexual demon. My husband and I are having super great sex. !!!

I tried the coconut oil and the first two times I didn't have any problems. The third time I got a very bad UTI. It was terrible. I don't know if it was a coincidence or if it was caused by the coconut oil. It is the first one I have had, I am not prone to these. Has anyone else had a problem with the coconut oil? I am afraid to try it again, that's how bad the infection was. I don't want to ask the doctor because she is set on having me start estrogen and I am set against it.