Female Hormone Replacement

What do female hormone replacement medications do?

• Female hormone replacement medications may be used to replace estrogen loss and to help prevent calcium loss that begins at mid-life. Also, they can be given for irregular or absent menstrual periods and to prevent hot flashes.

What should I tell the healthcare professional about the individual who will be taking these medications?

• Tell the healthcare professional about any alcohol or medications (prescriptions, or nonprescription) that the patient is taking.
• Tell if the individual is pregnant.
• Tell if the individual is taking seizure medications.
• Tell if you have seen changes in the individual's menstrual period.
• Tell if the individual smokes.

How should I give this medication and how should I store it?

• Give these medications by mouth unless indicated on the prescription.
• You can give these medications either with or without food unless indicated on the prescription.
• Give these medications on time and as prescribed.
• Store these medications at room temperature.

What side effects should I look for and when might I see them?

• The person taking the medication may feel sleepy or restless during the first few days after beginning the medication.
• The medication may cause irregular or absent periods, nausea, breast tenderness, or darkening of the skin on the face.

What side effects must I report at once?

• Some women experience post-menopausal bleeding, which a healthcare provider must evaluate.
• Report at once any post-menopausal bleeding, severe headache, dizziness, or visual disturbances.

Where can I buy female hormone replacement medications?

• Go to Online Drug Store on the World Wide Web and buy prescription drugs.