Cenestin

Generic name: Synthetic conjugated estrogens

What is Cenestin?

This medication is indicated for use by women after menopause to reduce hot flashes, and treat dryness, itching, and burning in and around the vagina. Cenestin is a mixture of estrogen hormones. It works by replacing natural estrogens in a woman who can no longer produce enough estrogen.

What is the most important information I should know about Cenestin?

Estrogens increase the chances of getting cancer of the uterus. Report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away while you are taking estrogens. Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus. Your healthcare provider should check any unusual vaginal bleeding to find out the cause.

Do not use estrogens with or without progestins to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes. Using estrogens with or without progestins may increase your chances of getting heart attack, strokes, breast cancer, and blood clots (risk increases with smoking, especially for women older than 35 years of age). You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with Cenestin.

Cenestin may cause dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Cenestin with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

Cenestin may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Cenestin may cause dark skin patches on your face (melasma). Exposure to the sun may make these patches darker, and you may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps. Consult your doctor regarding the use of sunscreens and protective clothing.

If you wear contact lenses and you develop problems with them, contact your doctor.

If you will be having surgery or will be confined to a chair or bed for a long period of time (eg, a long plane flight), notify your doctor beforehand. Special precautions may need to be taken in these circumstances if you are taking Cenestin.

Who should not take Cenestin?

Do not start taking Cenestin if you have unusual vaginal bleeding, currently have or had certain cancers, had a stroke or heart attack in the past year, currently have or have had blood clots, and currently have or had liver problems. Also, do not take Cenestin if you are allergic to Cenestin or any of its ingredients, and if you think you may be pregnant.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Cenestin?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Cenestin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have asthma; seizures; migraine; depression; diabetes; endometriosis; gallbladder disease; obesity; pancreatitis; uterine fibroids; if you smoke; have problems with your heart, liver, thyroid, kidneys; have high calcium levels in your blood; endometriosis; lupus; and if you plan on becoming pregnant or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms (such as hot flashes)

Adults: 0.45 milligram (mg)/day; may be titrated up to 1.25 mg/day. Attempts to discontinue medication should be made at 3 to 6-month intervals.

Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy

Adults: 0.3 mg/day.

How should I take Cenestin?

Take one Cenestin tablet by mouth with food or immediately after a meal each day. Taking Cenestin with food may reduce or prevent stomach upset. Take Cenestin at the same time each day.

What should I avoid while taking Cenestin?

The use of Cenestin increases the chance of having a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack, stroke, the development of a clot in your veins, and the development of a clot in your lungs. The use of tobacco products (eg, smoking) increases the likelihood of one these events occurring. Therefore, avoid the use of tobacco products (eg, smoking) while you are taking Cenestin.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Cenestin?

If Cenestin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cenestin with the following: aminoglutethimide, carbamazepine, clarithromycin, levothyroxine, nafcillin, nevirapine, phenobarbital, rifampin, St. John's wort.

What are the possible side effects of Cenestin?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: headaches, bloating, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, flu syndrome, gas, increased/decreased interest in sex, nervousness, sleeplessness, sore throat, infection, indigestion, weakness, weight changes, breast pain, irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting, hair loss

Can I receive Cenestin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Estrogens are not indicated for use during pregnancy or the immediate postpartum (after birth) period. Do not use Cenestin if you are breastfeeding a baby.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cenestin?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Cenestin?

Store Cenestin at room temperature. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Cenestin out of the reach of children.