Cenestin (Estrogen, Synthetic Conjugated)

What is Cenestin?

Cenestin is a form of female estrogen hormone that is usually given to females who no longer produce the same amount of estrogen, they used to earlier.

What is Cenestin used for?

Cenestin is indicated to provide relief from menopausal symptoms like dryness, burning and itching in the vaginal area. The medicine has also been used for preventing postmenopausal osteoporosis.

How does Cenestin work?

Cenestin works by replacing the estrogen hormone in the body.

How to use Cenestin

Take Cenestin in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer duration or in larger amount than recommended can cause health ailments.

The medicine is usually taken with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. However, if taking it on an empty stomach causes stomach upset, you may take it with food (or after a meal). Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

Do not miss any schedule appointments to the doctor. Also, check for breast lumps on a regular basis, while on the dosing schedule of Cenestin.

Cenestin warnings and precautions

Do not take Cenestin if you have abnormal and unchecked vaginal bleeding, history of stroke, heart attack, or blood clots, liver disease, or any kind of hormone-dependent cancer (e.g., breast or uterine cancer).

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, problems with circulation, high cholesterol levels in the blood, endometriosis, asthma, kidney disease, epilepsy, personal or family history of heart stroke, migraines, diabetes, gallbladder disease, underactive thyroid, porphyria, SLE or systemic lupus erythematosus, or if you have had hysterectomy. You might need an adjustment in the dosage.

Avoid smoking while under the prescription period of Cenestin, as it can enhance the risk of blood clots, heart attack or stroke.

Use effective external birth control treatments while you are under this medication.

If you get pregnant while you are under this medication, consult the doctor immediately to discuss the conditions. Pregnant women must not use this medicine as it can cause birth defects. Nursing mothers also must not use Cenestin as it can pass through breast milk and could cause harm to an infant. It has also been noted to slow down the production of breast milk.

What do I do if I have missed a Cenestin dose?

If you have missed a dose of Cenestin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.

What do I do if I have taken a Cenestin overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Cenestin, contact your doctor.

Cenestin interactions

Before taking Cenestin, tell your doctor if you are taking blood thinners (like warfarin), rifampin, ketoconazole or itraconazole, insulin or orally taken diabetes medications, barbiturates, seizure medicines, antidepressants and thyroid medications. These drugs can interact with Cenestin. Inform your doctor about all the prescription and non prescription drugs, herbal medicines that you are already taking, beforehand.

Cenestin side effects

Cenestin side effects include sudden headache, confusion, chest pain, heavy feeling, nausea, vomiting, pain in arms or shoulders, sudden weakness or numbness in the body, migraine headache, swelling or pain in lower leg, breast lump, jaundice, abnormal vaginal bleeding, stomach pain or swelling, memory problems, concentration troubles, swelling on certain areas of the body, troubled breathing, or problems with speech, vision, or balance. Contact your doctor if you get any of these side effects.

Less serious side effects from Cenestin may include mild nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, breast swelling, appetite loss, freckles, darkened facial skin, loss of scalp hair, vaginal discharge or itching, decreased interest in sex, changes in the menstrual cycle, nervousness, dizziness, fatigue, or headache.