FEMHRT

Drug Name: FEMHRT

FEMHRT DESCRIPTION:
ESTROGEN/PROGESTINS - ORAL

COMMON FEMHRT BRAND NAME(S):
Femhrt, Ortho-Prefest, Premphase, Prempro

FEMHRT SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache, irritability, restlessness, mood changes, nausea, increase in uterine fibroids, changes in vaginal bleeding pattern, weight changes, changes in sleeping patterns, fatigue, upset stomach, bloating, acne, change in sex drive or breast tenderness may occur. If these symptoms continue or become severe, inform your doctor immediately. Notify your doctor immediately if any of the following occur: swelling ankles or feet, leg pain, chest pain, severe headache, vision problems, severe abdominal pain, depression, breathing problems. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE FEMHRT:
FEMHRT: Take this by mouth exactly as directed by your doctor. This may be taken with meals to prevent stomach upset. Do not increase your dose, take this more often than directed or stop taking this without first consulting your doctor.

FEMHRT USES:
FEMHRT is a combination of hormones used to treat symptoms of menopause and to prevent brittle bones (osteoporosis) from occurring.

FEMHRT PRECAUTIONS:
Before taking this, tell your doctor if you have: heart disease or circulation problems, asthma, migraine headaches, any previous cancers, blood disorders, liver disease, gallbladder disease, history of depression, diabetes, seizure disorders, undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding, any allergies. Depending on strength, FEMHRT may cause a patchy, darkening of the skin on the face (melasma). Higher strengths are more likely to cause melasma. Sunlight may intensify this darkening and you may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps. Consult your doctor regarding use of sunscreens and protective clothing. FEMHRT must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. FEMHRT is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on the infant. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

FEMHRT DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any nonprescription or prescription medication you may use, particularly: blood thinners, steroids, antidepressants, thyroid, blood sugar medication. This product can affect the results of certain lab tests. Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctors know you use FEMHRT. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

FEMHRT OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea/vomiting or vaginal bleeding.

FEMHRT NOTES:
It is important to understand your therapy and to follow your doctor's instructions. Be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have. Do not share FEMHRT with others.

MISSED FEMHRT DOSE:
It is important to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is near the time for the next dose. If so, skip the missed dose and resume your dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

FEMHRT STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 to 25 degrees C) as directed away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medication away from children.