Conjugated estrogen (Cenestin) Drug for Menopause: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Conjugated estrogen
(Cenestin, United States)

Use:

A synthetic conjugated estrogen, it is indicated for use in treatment of menopausal symptoms. It is manufactured from soy and yam plants and is an alternative to conjugated estrogen products derived from pregnant mares' urine.

How It Works:

It is used to treat menopausal symptoms by supplementing declining body levels of estrogen.

Side Effects:

Side effects include headache, breast tenderness, edema, nausea, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Cautions for People:

Women with estrogen sensitive breast or uterine cancers, thromboembolic disorders, or undiagnosed vaginal bleed are not candidates for estrogen use. Use during pregnancy must be avoided.
Because estrogen is metabolized in the liver good liver functioning is required.

Drug Interactions:

Women with an intact uterus should take progesterone cyclically to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

Further Reading:

Medical Letter 1999;41(1058):67

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1999.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.