Ogen

Generic name: Estropipate

What is Ogen?

Ogen is a form of estrogen. Estrogen is a female sex hormone necessary for many processes in the body. Ogen is used to treat symptoms of menopause; deficiency in ovary function (including underdevelopment of female sexual characteristics and some types of infertility); some types of breast cancer in men and in postmenopausal women; degeneration of the vagina and urethra; and prostate cancer. In addition, Ogen used to prevent osteoporosis.

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

Because estrogens have been linked with increased risk of endometrial cancer (cancer in the lining of the uterus) in post-menopausal women, it is essential to have regular check-ups and to report any unusual vaginal bleeding to your doctor immediately.

Treatment with estrogens long-term may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, invasive breast cancer, and blood clots in lungs and legs. Because of these risks, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss your individual risks and benefits before taking an estrogen long-term. You should also talk to your doctor or healthcare provider on a regular basis (for example, every 3-6 months) about whether you should continue this treatment.

Women who take estrogen after menopause are more likely to develop gallbladder disease, and are also at risk for developing dementia, and vision abnormalities.

Who should not take Ogen?

Estrogens should not be used if you know or suspect you have breast cancer or other cancers promoted by estrogen. Do not use estrogen if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Also avoid estrogen if you have abnormal, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, liver disease, or if you have blood clots or a blood clotting disorder or a history of blood clotting disorders associated with previous estrogen use.

Ogen should not be used if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to any of its components.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ogen. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), heart disease, high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in the blood, liver disease, kidney disease, asthma (wheezing), epilepsy (seizures), migraines, diabetes (high blood sugar), depression, gallbladder disease, uterine fibroids. Tell your doctor if you have had a hysterectomy (uterus removed) or if you have experienced a circulation bleeding or blood-clotting disorder, undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding, or any type of breast, uterine, or cancer associated with the use of hormones.

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.

Hot Flushes and Night Sweats

Adults: The usual dose ranges from one .625 milligram (mg) tablet to two 2.5 mg tablets per day. Tablets should be taken in cycles, according to your doctor's instructions.

Vaginal Inflammation and Dryness

Adults: Tablets: The usual dose ranges from one .625 mg tablet to two 2.5 mg tablets per day. Tablets should be taken in cycles, according to your doctor's instructions. Vaginal Cream: The usual dose is 2 to 4 grams daily. Cream should be used in cycles, and only for limited periods of time.

Estrogen Hormone Deficiency

Adults: The usual dose ranges from one 1.25 mg tablet to three 2.5 tablets per day, taken for 3 weeks, followed by a rest period of 8 to 10 days.

Ovarian Failure Adults: The usual dose ranges from one 1.25 mg tablet to three 2.5 mg tablets per day for 3 weeks, followed by a rest period of 8 to 10 days. Your doctor may increase or decrease your dosage according to your response.

Prevention of Osteoporosis

Adults: The usual dose is one .625 mg tablet per day for 25 days of a 31-day monthly cycle.

How should I take Ogen?

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take Ogen with food or milk to lessen stomach upset. Try to take each dose at the same time each day. You may be taking it every day, or you may be taking it every day for 3 weeks with 1 week off each month to mimic your body's natural cycle. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

If you are taking Ogen to treat cancer, you may be taking it several times a day in very large doses.

What should I avoid while taking Ogen?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking Ogen unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ogen?

If Ogen 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 Ogen with any of the following: barbiturates such as phenobarbital; blood thinners; epilepsy drugs; grapefruit juice; inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir; insulin; rifampin; St. John's Wort; and tricyclic antidepressants.

What are the possible side effects of Ogen?

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: abdominal cramps, bloating, breakthrough bleeding, breast enlargement, breast tenderness and secretions, change in amount of cervical secretion, changes in sex drive, changes in vaginal bleeding patterns, chorea (irregular, rapid, jerky movements, usually affecting the face and limbs), depression, dizziness, enlargement of benign tumors (fibroids), excessive hairiness, fluid retention, hair loss, headache, inability to use contact lenses, menstrual changes, migraine, nausea, reduced ability to tolerate carbohydrates, spotting, spotty darkening of the skin, especially around the face, skin eruptions (especially on the legs and arms) with bleeding, skin irritation, skin redness and scaling, vaginal yeast infection, vision problems, vomiting, weight gain or loss, yellow eyes and skin

Can I receive Ogen if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Estrogens should not be used during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. These drugs may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Ogen is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

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

If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

How should I store Ogen?

Store Ogen at room temperature.