Premarin Side Effects / Letters 2001

THE TRUTH ABOUT PREMARIN

PREMARIN SIDE EFFECTS REPORTED BY WOMEN
AND DENIED BY DOCTORS - Letters 2001

Letters 2001

PREMARIN AND CYCRIN CAUSED LOSS OF LIMBS and BREASTS Date: Mon, 19 Feb 2001
Subject: Premarin & Cycrin Tragedy
I have been trying to do some research on the Internet regarding the problem of blood clotting in women who have been prescribed Premarin and Cycrin (Cycrin is generic for Provera). I have a good friend, who at the age of 50 (in 1997) was put on Premarin & Cycrin by her Dr. in Branson, Mo. Within three days, she developed purple "dots" in the fingernails of her left hand.
She called the doctor and he told her to go to St. John's Hospital in Springfield ASAP for "tests". Within a few days of being on blood thinners to no avail, her left arm was amputated just below the elbow.

Then within about two weeks, the toenails on her right foot did the same thing. She lost her right leg just below the knee, again blood thinners didn't dissolve the clots. Shortly after all of this, she got gangrene in both breasts, the skin broke in places and resembled purple plums that were half peeled. This lady nearly died! An arm, a leg and both breasts in 5 weeks! I saw her just days before she was put on the Cycrin, and she was just fine, but needed to see the doctor for some menopause problems.

I was shocked when I found out what all had happened in such a short time. She has tried to bring litigation due to her condition, but lawyers tell her that there are no other cases to use for a "precedent". I find it hard to believe that she is the only person in the whole USA who has had difficulty after taking this medication, and I know the small print on Premarin warns of the possibility of blood clotting. Her doctor gave her no such information in regards to this side effect, so she could make an informed decision as to whether to take it or not. Her attorney told her she couldn't sue the prescribing doctor because "there was no intent to harm". God forbid your doctor ever "intends to harm". This lady has been unable to find decent employment due to her condition, she is single, living on disability and not much of that, and suffers from depression to the extent that we, her friends, are concerned about her taking her life. Her whole world went from "fine" to "HELL" in five short weeks! I am amazed that apparently no one is responsible for this tragedy, just an innocent woman, who wanted to get something to control hot flashes.

Are there similar cases out there, even if the clotting didn't result in amputation? Please help if at all possible. This is a desperate situation. This lady tried so hard to deal with this, but having been reduced to a dire proverty level, she has given up. I would appreciate hearing from others who have had serious life threatening problems due to Premarin & Cycrin, (Premarin & Provera, or PremPro) Please email me at: firstbass65737@yahoo.com
Thank you, N.R.Q.

Ed. Comment: Premarin absolutely causes blood clots in some women - this is stated in the product insert sheet that comes with Premarin (or PremPro) and also the Physician's Desk Reference (the 4 inch thick book doctors don't have time to refer to). I've heard from many women who have had blood clots and numerous other serious health problems from HRT (Premarin & Provera or Cycrin), however, the above case is by far the most extreme and tragic, the exception being those that have died as a result of HRT. It was reported in the national news last year that 100,000 people die each year due to medical mistakes, the wrong prescription filled because of doctor's illegible writing, drug side effects, drug interactions, etc. and no one is keeping track of them. It is very likely that HRT is responsible for some of those 100,000 deaths. Is there another industrialized country in the world with that amount of deaths due to medical mistakes?

If a woman is in perfect health, feeling fine and enjoying life except for some hot flashes before going on HRT and then develops many serious health problems to the extent she has to quit her job, and her health is severely compromised after going on HRT - it does not take a rocket scientist to figure out that HRT caused the problems. For an attorney to say he can't sue a doctor because "there was no intent to harm" is pathetic. Does a doctor ever intentionally set out to harm a patient? How about the Hypocratic oath? - "First Do No Harm." Premarin may be a widely prescribed drug - that doesn't mean it is safe. One hundred thousand women stop taking it every month due to the many side effects and they are the lucky ones. Many others, urged by their doctors, continue with it even though they are suffering side effects. Many women never even fill their first prescription. Many stop taking it only six months after starting. No matter what life threatening health conditions a woman experiences, they continue to "parrot" their favorite phrase: - "The benefits outweigh the risks." Thousands of women do not agree.

The majority of those in the medical profession are keeping silent about what is happening to many women who are using HRT and their silence condemns them - I think that could be considered negligence. Doctors are supposed to report serious side effects of any drug to the FDA, but it is quite obvious they are not reporting the harm Premarin and PremPro are causing. They never bother to discuss the possible serious side effects such as stroke, blood clots, increased breast cancer risk, etc. or the fact that women have many other options than taking a medication derived from pregnant mare's urine for the rest of their life and then telling women it is natural. It's natural to horses - certainly not to women. As you read the letters, you will note occasionally that a doctor does take a woman off Premarin or PremPro stating the reasons: increased risk for breast cancer, and that estrogen does not protect a woman from heart attacks as they once thought it did. It is encouraging to know that at least some doctors are actually more concerned for a woman's health and safety than keeping on the "good side" of the pharmaceutical companies.
Ed. Note: Many women have found their doctor to be less than helpful if she wants to quit Premarin/PremPro and asks about tappering off. Women have told me their doctor becomes "sarcastic," "arrogant", "gets mad", "treats them like a dumb blonde", and basically "put them down" if she mentions the use of soy, natural hormone replacement therapy, natural progesterone cream or anything other than their menopause protocol of "Premarin/PremPro and other synthetic estrogen drugs. Many women have switched doctors because of this shabby and demeaning treatment. The following information about tapering off Premarin is from DR. SUSAN LOVE'S HORMONE BOOK:

"If you want to consider getting off Premarin at any time, you should consider tapering off. (There's no medical problem with stopping cold turkey, but you may experience severe withdrawal symptoms.) This means alternating one pill with half a pill (or a pill of a lower dosage) for two months, or taking a whole pill every other day. Then go to half a pill (or reduced dosage) every day for two months. Then go to half a pill every other day for two months. Finally, stop. (The pills aren't scored, so you need to break them either with a sharp knife or an inexpensive pill-cutting tool that most pharmacies carry.) If at any time you experience severe symptoms, you're tapering off too fast and need to slow down. Let your health care provider know if you decide to taper off."

Date: Fri, 15 Jun 2001
Subject: Prempro
My wife had a very serious problem that I feel was the result of faulty medical advice in combination with Prempro. She has never had high blood pressure, never smoked, does not drink and was a very active athlete until she visited a doctor for her annual check up. He put her on Prempro and she started to spot about a week after the initiation of prempro. We contacted the doctor and he said that was a normal thing with Prempro and not to worry. Within a month, she was going through two sanitary napkins each day.
We kept contacting the doctor and he did an examination around July 15, 1999. He instructed her to continue the Prempro medication even though I told him the problems didn't start until he put her on the Prempro. Around a week later, we received a telephone call on Monday morning at 11:00 AM. The nurse said that surgery was scheduled for Tuesday morning at 7:30. This was news to us, since no surgery had ever been discussed. The doctor called back around 1:30 and said that he only wanted to do an investigation as to what was causing the menstruation. He was only going to put a probe into her vagina to check for problems. When the operation was over, he came to me and said, "By the way, I did a D&C while I was looking." I did not know what a D&C was, so I asked him to explain. He reported that it was a minor scrapping of the lining for a culture sample.
Several problems developed from the D&C. The doctor and nurse told her to continue the Prempro even after I had asked her to stop using it. One to two weeks later, she came down with blood clots and then a massive stroke on August 5, 1999. At this time, she can walk with assistance, but has no short term memory and is still partially paralyzed in the right side, arm, leg, eye, hearing and foot. Prempro is NOT a good drug for some women, but the doctors need to be educated on its bad effects.
A.H. Garland, TX

{Ed. Note}: Yet another sad and tragic story that never should have happened. The product insert sheet clearly states among other things: Be alert for signs of trouble: Report these or any other unusual side effects to your doctor immediately:

Abnormal bleeding from the vagina.
Abnormal blood cloting. Taking estrogens may increase the risk of blood clots. These clots can cause a stroke, a heart attack or pulmonary embolus, any of which may be fatal.

The abnormal bleeding was reported to the doctor who failed to take this woman off PremPro, (even after being told by the patient's husband, the problems DIDN'T START UNTIL SHE BEGAN THE PREMPRO. Instead this doctor chose to do a D&C which caused other problems and kept her on PremPro right up until she had the stroke and blood clot. This woman's quality of life and health has been severely affected due to the negligence of her doctor not heeding the warning about the abnormal bleeding from the vagina. These are negligent actions and should not go unpunished.

Date: Mon, Jan 29 2001
Subject: My Wife Just Had A Heart Attack
My wife is 54, vegetarian, does not drink or smoke, works out on the treadmill everyday, not overweight. No history of heart disease in her family; HDL and LDL normal, Blood Pressure normal. She does not use drugs of any type. On January 11, 2001 she was placed on HRT - PREMARIN .625mg (estrogens) and NOVO-MEDRONE 2.5mg (progesterone) and 8 days later suffered a heart attack (Jan. 18 at 1pm). I got her to a hospital here on Vancouver Island within an hour of the attack (myocardial infarction). They gave her a clot busting drug in the ER that saved her life. They also got her to sign up as a participant in a study they were doing on this particular drug. She was placed in ICU and stayed there for 7 days before being transferred to another hospital to have further tests. The Cardiac Catheterization showed clean as a whistle arteries and a healthy heart, except for the damage caused by the heart attack. My question is: Can this M.I. be directly related to HRT?
Thank you,
L.R.W.

Date: Fri, 26 Jan
Subject: Prempro Side Effects
I am writing to thank you for this informative site. I think it may have saved my life. I was put on Prempro on Jan. 1. I started having strange things happen to me. I immediately had strong leg cramps, heavy bleeding, and then I became very lightheaded, heart pounding, shortness of breath and a general feeling of being sick. Then I started to have a problem with my blood sugar and found myself eating candy all the time. *I called my doctor and she totally ignored me and said it wasn't from the Prempro. Two days later I woke up depressed with bizarre thoughts. That is when the lightbulb went off in my head. I am 53 years old and had never in my life been depressed. That day I went to the internet and found your site. Your site convinced me that I wasn't crazy and gave me the courage to call my doctor and tell her I was stopping the Prempro. That was on Jan. 17 and finally the last few days I have felt nearly back to normal. I truly think it would have killed me, as I had almost every side effect and was so sick. I have one question. I had my ovaries removed because of a mass, which wasn't cancer. I have only had hot flashes, nothing else. I really don't want to go back on hormones. Are the hormones necessary? Thank you again. D.J.

{Ed. Note} *Since it is obvious that some doctors do not have their patient's best interest at heart and are not reporting these severe side effects to the FDA, I would like to encourage women (and doctors who want to do the right thing) to contact the FDA themselves and report the serious adverse side effects they have experienced from Premarin, PremPro, PremPhase and other synthetic estrogen and progestin drugs. You can fill out a form on line at:

MedWatch

The FDA must be made aware of the fact that many women who use these drugs are having some very adverse side effects. They must make a much stronger warning about the life threatening (in some cases death) and devasting side effects women are suffering from Premarin, PremPro, PremPhase and other estrogen drugs.

Date: Thu, 20 Dec 2001
Subject: Could Premarin Have Caused Kidney Stones?
Hello:
I have been on your website concerning Premarin. I had a total hysterectomy in March of 2000. I was 36 years old. I was immediately placed on Premarin1.1. I started suffering from migraines, which I never had a history of. My doctor reduced my Premarin intake to .9 everyday. I still get the migraines occasionally. I have now started suffering from kidney stones. I have had two since I started taking the Premarin. I was wondering if there could be any connection to the Premarin and Kidney stones. I would appreciate your input. Thank you, S.E.
Date: Sat, 29 Sep 2001
Subject: I can't believe what I'm reading!
Hello,
I received your email about Premarin. I went off of it about three to four weeks ago. My palpitations stopped and I feel a little better. I am so glad that I went off of it, but my doctor said that I shouldn't because I need it for my skin, and for my nerves. I think that they are fooling us into believing it helps when all it is doing is causing more problems. I have a lot of tests this week, and one is to find out if I have a blockage in my neck to my heart. What do you think I should do? In addition to everything else, I am now being tested for a blockage. I will let you know what happens after all the tests. My health is really bad right now, and this is the last thing I need. I do believe that Premarin is dangerous, and needs to be addressed immediately. Thank you for emailing. Talk to you soon. Sincerely,
D.E.

Date: Sun, 23 Sep 2001
Subject: Cycrin Taker
Hello to all, Is there anything else besides Cycrin for irregular periods, hair loss, extra hair growth, pimples, etc. that I can take. I was prescibed to take Cycrin the 1st through the 12th for three months and I willl be on my 3rd month in a week. I had side affects. The first month my ankle swelled and excessive bleeding in the first week which I never had before. These are 10 mgs. My second month at around the same time, I had exessive bleeding also. Is this normal? Please help me answer these questions. Please email me soon thank you. Izmegreekgirl@aol.com

Date: Sat, 22 Sep 2001
Subject: Side Effect of Premarin
Hi, I had a hysterectomy and my doctor started me on Premarin. Since I started the Premarin, my ears itch. I ask, could this be an allergic reaction to the Premarin? My doctor said no. My ears constantly itch. Help! D.G.

Date: Wed, 19 Sep 2001
Subject: Please help me!
I am 49 years old and was prescribed Premarin after a total hysterectomy 4 years ago. Six months ago, a 20 lb. weight gain, fatigue and depression caused me to seek alternatives. I went to a naturopath who put me on a cream estrogen/progesterone program, but I'm still suffering the weight gain and hot flashes! I do not want to go back on the Premarin even though my hot flashes stopped with its use. The cruelty to horses and the other side effects I mentioned above are enough to keep me away. IS THERE ANY HOPE?? Is there ANYTHING out there that will not make us gain weight (despite my 3 mile per day walks) and stop the hot flashes? I am desperate! Thank you so much for any light you can shed on this!
S.A., Seattle

Date: Wed, 5 Sep 2001
Subject: Premarin
I just came across your web page. I can't believe what I am reading. I have been having many problems that all these people are having, since I had a complete hysterectomy four years ago. They found large tumors on top of my ovaries. After the operation, my doctor put me on Premarin. At the time I was also taking Toprol XL for my high blood pressure. Between both of these drugs, my blood pressure went sky high and I experienced dizziness, nightmares, sleepless nights, depression, and was always tired. I have been working at a large retail store, Nature's Northwest, and we have a naturopath that works there. He told me that it was the two drugs together that was causing these problems. I have slowly been weaning myself off these drugs. I can't tell you how wonderful I feel. I can finally sleep at night. And my attitude at work has improved 100%. I am now seeing our naturopath and am taking natural medication. I went to my regular doctor and told him what I have done and he seemed to be mad. He said that my chance of the tumors coming back will increase 50%. That by having the hysterectomy, most of the hormones in my body are gone. I wonder how my mom managed to live all these years without hormone pills, and still looks wonderful.
Thanks again for your web page, and be sure, I will tell other people about it. I would be happy if you put this letter in your web site. I also did some research on the horses that they use and was appalled at what they have to go through. The horse is a free spirit that needs to run free. I cried at the cruelty that they are made to go through. I will do everything to help stop this. I will tell the world if I have to. Thanks again, G.D.

Date: Wed, 5 Sep 2001
Subject: Questions About Premarin
I hear what you are saying about cruelty to horses. I hate the idea of it. I just recently had a complete hysterectomy and my doctor has prescribed Premarin. I have the bottle, but I haven't started taking it. I knew nothing about the ingredients until today.
I also read the problems it can cause a woman in menopause. I am not in menopause with my internal organs - I am without them. I am not trying to look for reasons not to take it or to take it. I just want to know where to go to see what is best for me. There are always pros and cons to taking anything and there are always people for it or against it. I guess I get tired of having to read through every article, every website and would just like to know the facts........physical facts such as side effects to either. I don't want to hurt any animal just so I can spare my own life or end it sooner. My email has nothing to do with that. I understand the horse concern and I agree with you on that.
But putting that aside, could you please provide me with facts as far as health issues for Premarin or any prescribed drug vs. natural herbs. Herbs make me very sick and I end up discontinuing what I take. I am only 30 and scared not to take something eventually and just as scared not to take anything. I haven't started "wigging" out on anyone yet, so I guess I am ok for now. Cancer and heart disease run very strong in my family. I would like to know the risks of taking something or going without. If you do not have that information could you please direct me to a page or number to call so I can just get the plain facts. I will pass on this website to my family and friends. I think it is important to keep people up to date with what companies are doing to our animals. Thank you for creating this page. J.S.

Date: Sun, 02 Sep 2001
Subject: Premarin and Pulmonary Emboly
My mother suffered a pulmonary emboly in may 2001. It was diagnosed pretty late because the typical shortness of breath was mistaken for hyperventilation. Not until she experienced severe stomach pains (which were caused by - as it would turn out later - kidney embolys), she was taken to hospital.
During a stressful night in the IC-unit of a specialized hospital my mother was administered heavy anticoagulants to dissolve the blood clots in both lungs and kidneys. It was not sure whether or not she would survive. Her blood was as thick as syrup or honey and it hardened almost immediately outside of her body when samples were taken. During that night, a nurse noticed that my mother was on Premarin Plus, which she had been taking during the previous five months. The nurse said that they might have contributed to the emboly. It was the first and last time I heard a doctor or nurse mention Premarin as a possible cause of the emboly. However, my mother is not to use Premarin or any other HRT anymore.
Personaly, I think that it was Premarin that caused her illness. Although she was slightly overweight and used to smoke (although she did quit 4 months before the emboly), it does not explain the 'thickening' of the blood. Sincerely yours,
L.W.
The Netherlands

Date: Sun, 2 Sep 2001
Subject: Estradiol
Could you tell me whether it is a good idea to change from Estradiol patches 0.05mg/day, to Trusoy - soy menopause formula -. I am 60 yrs old and had a total hysterectomy approximately 10 years ago. The patches are essentially to prevent osteoporosis, my mother had it, and the Dr. says they are also good for the prevention of heart and Alzheimer's disease. I would much prefer to take something natural. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, A.K.

Date: Sat, 1 Sep 2001
Subject: Premarin
Hi, I have been on Premarin now for 12 years, taking 1.25mg's. As I went on it immediately after a full hysterectomy, I never experienced flushes or anything like that. I am 45 now. I live in Belgium and when I asked my doctor back in Ireland if I could go off it, he said no reason to. The doctor here suggested in about 5 years I could go on a spray you put on your legs. I have never felt 'comfortable' taking Premarin. My sister is a horse lover but did not know what the alternative is. I have been experiencing the most awful cramps in my feet and calves and wonder If this is due to Premarin? Also my legs feel heavy and I am tired a lot. I have no sexual drive either, I am always too tired. Can you give me some advice. I enjoyed reading the letters, the page is very informative. Regards, J.O.

Date: Wed, 29 Aug 2001
Subject: HRT
Thank you so much for putting the letters on your site. I, too, get the same doctor advice that Prempro is not harming me and is what I need. Once again I am convinced I need to be off HRT and I need to assure myself that my doctor does not know best, it's just normal to think our health professionals knows best and to follow their advice. C.S.

Date: Sun, 26 Aug, 2001
Subject: Premarin
Hello. I am a 44 years old. I had a complete hysterectomy (ovaries and all) at the age of 33. I have been on Premarin .625 for the past 11 years. I have felt good, have gained quite a bit of weight, but after reading your website have realized that a few problems that have bothered me... pain in my arm, heart palpatations upon waking sometimes, tender breasts, etc. are probably due to the Premarin. I also was diagnosed with fibroid disease in my breasts. A couple of months ago I was running low on my RX and was trying to get through until my doctor appointment so I cut my .625 tablets in half and took them like that for 1 month before my appointment. A stange thing happened.....I was more alert, clear headed and not as hungry. Could this be the Premarin?
Anyway my mom died when I was 6 of cancer and it runs in my family so I have decided to get off the Premarin and onto to something natural. I asked my doctor and she said you can't any more natural than premarin (horse urine) nice response, huh..... Anyway, have you heard of a product called Revival Soy and if so, what do you think? I await your reply. Thank you for any help you can give me because I'm not going to get any from my doctor. Phyllis in Arkansas

Date: Mon, 20 Aug 2001
Subject: NHRT
I'm scheduled for a hysterectomy to include the uterus and ovaries. I am having difficulty finding information on natural hormone replacement for dealing with the loss of hormones produced by the ovaries. Do you have any links that would help?
Thanks,
L.J.

Date: Sun, 19 Aug 2001
Subject: Premarin user
Hello,
I have read all of the email you received regarding Premarin. I have been on HRT for several years. Premarin is one of the more recent medicines. At one point I started bleeding everytime I went to the bathroom. I saw a Nurse practitioner, and she suggested a higher dosage of Premarin. Well, I kept bleeding. When I was able to see my regular doctor, she lowered the dosage. I have been retired now (at 55) for almost two years. I always thought because I woke up at 3:45am was the reason why I was always so tired. I started exercising at a local community center, hoping that would help me with energy, plus eating better. I have complained to my doctor about being tired, heart palpitations, and now just recently I've been experiencing a soreness in my left shoulder. I am at my wits end with doctors, and I don't know what else to do other than to get off of Premarin and Progestrone all together. HELP ME!
Sincerely, M.D.

(Follow-up Letter from M.D.)
Date: Tue, 21 Aug 2001
Subject: Re: Premarin user
Thank you for getting back to me. In answer to your question regarding the bleeding, it happened while I was on a dosage of Premarin. The dosage was raised, then lowered, and the bleeding stopped. I will talk to my doctor about NHRT, and also look up the other sites. I purchased Soy Milk for my husband to drink to help him lower his cholesterol (it's working). So I will try that when it comes to that. By all means, please use my email. Thank you again for your help, and I will continue to look at your website. Sincerely,
M.D.

{Editor's Note} Natural hormone replacement therapy totally duplicates the hormones in a woman's body; estradiol, estrone, estriol, progesterone, testosterone. Since these are natural hormones and nothing is changed, they cannot be patented. With the synthetic estrogens, the molecules must be changed so the pharmaceutical companies can patent them. It is in the changing of the molecules that women experience all of the health problems you read about in these letters.

Date: Sun, 12 Aug 2001
Subject: Prempro
Hi,
Thank God my husband found this site, it is so clear now I do not feel alone and stupid, thinking it is all in my head and I am not just strong enough to be able to go through this phase with grace. I was a healthy 52 year old with no major problems other than going through a painful merger. I Do not like to take medications at all and just this year the symptoms of menopause showed up with a vengeance. Early on I was feeling just warmer than usual. My OBGYN kept me on Loestrin plus Estrace for awhile. Then I started to get warmer than before and after a few tests I was diagnosed with going through menopause. I began to have all of the symptoms mentioned by all the women here in your site. Being totally ignorant about the different symptoms, I started calling my Internist about my different problems. She recommended an OBGYN who was more informed in menopause.
Well as many of the ladies stated, she just did not have enough time for me plus she had a lot of patients to take care of. She recommended to take Ortho-Prefest (17 beta-estradiol/norgestimate). This product made me feel horrible. The symptoms I had were: chronic headache, nervousness, and the worst was that I started getting heavy pressure in my chest and heavy palpitations.
My internist requested all kinds of heart tests; all of them according to her were nothing to be concerned about. She said that premature heart palpitations were normal. She even got a little annoyed when I called her again with another complaint. This time I complained about having a bad pressure pain when urinating. I also told her about doing a microscopic observation. I had bacteria, epithelial cells, red blood cells, and white blood cells present. She called my pharmacy for CIPRO for 7 days at the end of which I did another microscopic observation and still had remnants of all the things I had before. My Dr.'s assistant left a message on my phone saying that they needed a urine sample to do further testing(?). After which the assistant called again and left a message stating that the tests showed nothing too unusual.
After the heart episode, I was taken off the Ortho-Prefest. I was asked to take Prempro. 0.625mg/2.5mg Premarin of conjugated estrogens and 2.5 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate respectively. I have only been on Prempro for four days and I already have had episodes of complete depression to the point that it is affecting my work and daily outlook on life.I am wondering, would it be ok to stop taking Prempro without any consequences? Also, what would you recommend to take to alleviate the hot flashes, insomnia, fatigue, etc, etc. I am not one of the lucky ones who does not have all the symptoms of menopause. Any help I can get would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, A.M.

Date: Fri, 10 Aug 2001
Subject: Hormone replacement with bio-identical hormones
Concerning whether we should replace hormones. we need the replacement but with hormones that are identical to the ones we have had all of our life. A compound pharmacist can compound these hormones.
The report HERS is misleading. If we look at the PEPI trials, we see that micronized progesterone did not block the good effects of estrogen, it enhanced them.
We are allowing the pharmaceutical companies to play around with our lives.
Thanks

Follow-up Letter
Date: Fri, 10 Aug 2001
Subject: Re: Hormone replacement with bio-identical hormones
I could get on a "soap box" and send out a message to women that there are alternatives that do not have the risks of synthetic hormones, even pre (pregnant), mar (mare), in (urine) Premarin.
I do know that there will be no studies until the pharmaceutical companies figure out a way to get around the "natural products" and produce them to be sold. They did figure out a way to market micronized progesterone through the manufacturing process, Prometrium.
I myself use tri-estrogen instead of Premarin and also progesterone cream. There are many women who are successfully "turning their life around" physically and mentally by switching to bio-identical hormones. One man called my husband, (compound pharmacist) and thanked him for "giving his wife back to him". Others have called back and said, "I have my life back".
Thanks, G.C.

Date: Thu, 9 Aug 2001
Subject: HELP!
I want to take myself off Premarin. I've been using it since a total hysterectomy in 1986, at age 43. I believe the risks DO NOT outweigh the benefit of taking this med. However, neither my doctor nor my pharmacist will tell me the correct way to stop taking this drug. I'm in good shape, eat well, exercise a little (not enough) have good blood pressure, my cholesterol is a tad high (208). HELP! B.M.

Date: Wed, 8 Aug 2001
Subject: Side Effects
Hi, My name is Nita, I had a total hysterectomy in 1999. My gyn put me on Premarin, and I left it at that. I thought that she knows what she is doing . Now in 2001 I was told that I had a spot on my left breast, so I went for another test at a different hospital and they couldn't even find the spot . I was told to come back in six months for a retest. I went back to the same clinic that I had gone to the first time. They told me again that the spot was still there. Now I wish that someone would tell me the truth. I have had a lot of the same symptoms, I have noticed that my breast has had a lot of enlargement, and that I have been tired. Also, my sex life has gotten worse. Can someone please tell me something I can take so that I don't have to take Premarin. As of now I am off of it . Thank you and you can use my letter to NITA

Date: Tue, 7 Aug 2001
Subject: I can't beleive what I am reading!
Hello,
   My name is Diane and I am emailing from Illinois. I accidentally got on your web page by trying to look up Prednisone. This was a God send to me as I have taken Premarin for years after having a hysterectomy at age 25, and I am now 48. I have a lot of health problems and just tonight was having a lot of heart palpitations. I have horrible leg aches, headaches, tingling in arms and legs, plus so much more. I have had rheumatoid arthritis for about 6 years and always attribute my illnesses to that. Since I have read your web site and listened to all the letters from women around the world, I do believe that some of my problems stem from Premarin. I am calling the doctor tomorrow and finding out how to ease off of this poison. He will not like it but it's my body and I will do it. Thank you so very much for all the info that is given on your web site. I have saved your web site, and will continue to read it and pass it on to others. This night was meant to be. I couldn't sleep and felt compelled to get on line. Thank you again. D.E.

Date: Thu, 2 Aug 2001
Subject: Origins of Prempro
Was reading the information about the unethical treatment of mares and how they are made to stand in the stalls to collect urine. This information was dated 1999. Has anything been done in the last 2 years, or is this treatment still being performed?
Thanks for your information. B.M.

Date: Mon, 30 Jul 2001
Subject: Premarin Side Effects
Very interesting web site! I was put premarin .3 mg. last month. After 3 weeks I was feeling great, then the severe palipitations started. I stopped the Premarin immediately, but the palpitations are continuing. Went to my regular doctor who is now sending me for tests, and stress tests.
Have you any idea how long it might take to get this junk out of my system and the symptoms stop? I don't know what I was thinking, I don't tolerate any medication well. C.J.C.

Date: Tue, 24 Jul 2001
Subject: Premarin
Have you heard of any connection between Premarin and Mineir's Disease (Severe Nausea + Vertigo).
Thanks, R.C.

Date: Sun, 22 Jul 2001
Subject: Premarin alternatives
I was on Premarin in the early 1980's. I heard about the source from PETA and promptly requested my Doctor to change me to a synthetic version. I have been on Estratab and Estrace since then. I just asked my Doctor if there has been newer plant based versions of estrogen replacement therapy and she recommended Menest (Monarch pharmaceuticals) and Ortho-est.
As I was checking them out in the PDR, I notced that Estratab and Menest contain equilin sulfate and equilenin. Are they derived from horses (equine)?? I can not find out exactly if they are "Natural" (??? which I don't really know the definition - Pregnant Mare's Urine is natural, too) or completely synthetic. My veterinary medical dictionary states that "Equilin and equilenin are 2 estrogens produced by the pregnant mare which are unique to Equidae".
If you can please shed some light on this matter, I would certainly appreciate it. I hope that these ingredients aren't derived from horses and the rest of the ingredients derived from the yam and soy and are being touted as "plant based". P.B.

Date: Wed, 18 Jul 2001
Subject: Ogen vs. Estradiol
Hello,
I enjoyed reading your article and found it very informative.. I am 2 years, post total abdominal hysterectomy and have been taking Ogen. 3 weeks ago I started natural hormone replacement therapy ~ Triest and Natural Progesterone. To date, all my menopausal symptoms have returned with a vengeance..ie., night sweats, leg cramps, foot pain, insomnia, palpitations, depression. I have contacted the compounding pharmacy, and have been advised that natural hormones take a month or more to take effect. I am now wondering if this is true, or should I return to Ogen, which relieved all my symptoms? Would appreciate your opinion of Ogen vs. Estradiol..as I am tempted to synthetic therapies. Sincerely, R.J.

Date: Mon, 16 Jul 2001
Subject: Esradiol death
My sister (46) died last week of a pulmonary embolism. She began taking Ethinyl Estradiol tabs 5 days before her death. She was relativly healthy with no major problems prior to the death pills given out by her Dr. If you have any info about this would you let me know? Thank you, K.W.

Date: Thu, 12 Jul 2001
Subject: FemHRT
I have been taken off of PremPro because I had all the side effects you can get. I'm on FemHRT as of today for long heavy periods. Could you give me information on this? I hope this does not have the same ingredients as PremPro. They should take Prempo off of the market - my blood pressure was so high and I never had high blood pressure before. My left arm is still hurting from PremPro. I only took it for a month, almost bled to death and it wasn't even time for my cycle. I'm not too sure if I want to take FemHRT if it is the same. Thank you for the information on PremPro. L.S.

Date: Thu, 12 Jul 2001
Subject: Premarin
Hello,
I need help, I am doing a project on Premarin for a Morgan horse youth contest, and I was wondering if you knew the statistic of how many mares are killed because they can not produce enough urine or because they can not reproduce. If you could return this email ASAP, that would be very helpful. Thank you, Erin

        Date: Sun, 8 Jul 2001
Subject: Help
Hello:
    I had surgery one year ago. The doctor prescribed Premarin and I have been taking it ever since. I have gained over 20 pounds and am still gaining. How can I get this weight off? I am going to stop taking Premarin because of the side effects I have read about. Thank you for your letters, D.M.C.

Date: Wed, June 27 2001
Subject: HRT
Hello,
I am a 30 year old women writing to you about Premarin. Unfortuntely, I am sorry to report to you, that I am also a victim of experiencing horrible side effects from this drug. I was on 1.25 mg and wondering if this is a high dosage. I have been very miserable for the 2-1/2 years I have been on it and experienced the following: very bad headaches, depression, excruciating pain in my lower right side of my back, acne, loss of sex drive, tightness in my chest, muscle spasms, weight gain, and every now and then, have a crying spell. I decided to stop taking it and try a patch. I did, and I don't have any of the side effects that I experienced with Premarin. The dose is extremely low and I am adjusting to it pretty well I guess. I do tend to have a headache occasionally, but it's not as bad as when I was on Premarin. I do feel sleepy after I change the patch. I have to change it twice a week. It's not that bad and I like it better than the Premarin. I do have some concerns though. I read the side effects about the patch, but the ones I'm having aren't listed. I am using the Estraderm patch. Please let me know if the patch is safe to use. The side effects listed are: dizziness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and the possibility of skin irritation, redness, or rash may occur at the side of the Estraderm application. I do not have any of these side effects, but I am experiencing sleepiness, a slight loss of appetite, and muscle spasms in my chest under my left breast. Is this normal? I called my doctor's office to speak with a nurse about this and never got a response. I'm not to the point where I have to go to the hospital or anything, I'm just saying, if there are other side effects to this patch that are not listed, please let me know. I'm fine, but just feel a little weird. Could it be from stopping the Premarin and going directly to the patch?
After reading your website about Premarin, it has really enlightened my knowledge about the serious side effects it has. Is there a class action suit against Premarin? If there is, I would like a piece of the action from a drug that caused me so much misery.
Thank you very much.
T.R.
Boothwyn, PA

Follow-up letter from T.R., Boothwyn, PA
Date: Wed, 4 Jul 2001
Subject: Re: HRT
Thank you for your concerns and responding to my e-mail. Regarding using the Estraderm patch, it's working out for me finally, no more muscles spasms under my left side of my chest. Guess what? Don't laugh, I read the little booklet that was enclosed with the patches, and came across where it said do not put the patch in the same area as where it was when you removed it. So I think I figured out why I was having those muscles spasms. I kept putting the patch on the same spot everytime I changed it. You can't put in the same spot until after a week.
A friend gave me a tip about soy products, she told me that soy is good for hot flashes. I went to the market and bought some soy milk, it is great! I really like it. I don't get hot flashes much, but when I do, it's not fun at all, and I'm not a happy camper. Now I'm feeling fine and doing well. What a great tip about soy products, it works! and it's natural. I went the whole day without a patch, I drank some of my soy milk that I bought and I felt refreshed for that whole day. I didn't feel sick at all. I just felt so relieved. Soy milk is a good source of reducing hot flashes fast! it comes in three flavors, chocolate, vanila, and of course original. Feeling great, T.R.

Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2001
Subject: Premarin
I am a 45 year old woman who had a hysterectomy in 1982 and went on Premarin. I had terrible hot flashes and weight gain. After going on the Premarin I felt wonderful once I got used to it. I have never had a problem until recently. The last few years I have experienced lumps in my breasts. All my mammograms come back showing fibroids. I just had a cyst that was aspirated three times. It kept filling up with fluid so we had to remove it. I had surgery two weeks ago and now I am diagnosed with ADH Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia. Hormones promote growth and the Premarin might have caused this condition. My breast specialist wants me to go off the Premarin, which would put into menopause and to go on Tamoxofien for 5 years. I feel wonderful and I do not want to change my life. The doctor says my body will go through drastic changes with all of this. If I do as she suggests my chances of not getting breast cancer are 85%. Right now I am gathering as much information as I can before making a decision. I am seeing an oncologist and a few other doctors. Also, collecting data from the Internet and other people. Please let me know if anyone else is experiencing this also. Thank you! Jan

Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2001
Subject: Premarin
I am a 52 year old female who had a complete hysterectomy when I was 38. I have been on Premarin 1.25 mg. Approximately 5 years after commencement of the drug, I developed a sensitivity to the sun and would break out in a rash when exposed to it. About 4 years ago, I also had several angina attacks. The doctors had discovered that I had a blockage in one of the arteries. They put me on medication to take care of that. Since I have been taking Premarin, my triglycerides and cholesterol levels have been astronomical. I was in the hospital in April of this year (2001) with pancreatitis. They attributed that attack to my high triglyceride levels (over 11,000). These levels are still at 1500 and I have seen an endocrynologist. He has just taken me off of Premarin. I have also had very painful numbness in my fingers and feet.
L.K.

Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2001
Subject: Alternatives
Where do I look for alternatives to Prempro? My doctor has finally realized it isn't what it was cracked up to be and told me to wean myself off of it. Then he plans to prescribe Evista. I want to be prepared for whatever might occur (such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness) as I come off the Prempro. Is there a website or particular books that give current and accurate info? Thank you, S.H.

Date: Sat, 2 Jun 2001
Subject: Premarin Cream
I have a bladder prolapse and wear a pessary but need to have it removed every so often to clean it, but also occasionally the premarin cream I was prescribed even though a low dosage, causes the same symptoms as the pill. The doctor told me that the cream toughens the cervix wall in order that the pessary will not cause problems. My question is if a small amount of cream can cause these symptoms and side effects, I can imagine what a pill or pills can do. I also believe besides all the symptoms mentioned in your letters on the web, it also cause bleeding and discharge and once stopped the symptoms stop. As of two days ago, I refuse to take PREMARIN.Thanks for all the help on your website. M. L. New Jersey

Date: Thu, 31 May 2001
Subject: Premarin, Blood Clot & TIA's
Hi, I've written before about Premarin and problems that my mother (she'll be 65 this year - if she survives this stuff) is having. My mother has been in and out of the hospital going through tests, I'm sure you know the routine.
She had a similar blood clot to the lady who wrote the first letter for 1998 about Prempro. Same leg and practically the same length, same treatment. She is having TIA's and still experiences swelling in her leg, three clots are still there. Now just this week they have found 65% blockage in a cartoid artery on the left side of her neck, they are doing an angiogram next week because they think something is going on in her brain causing the continuing TIA's. I live in California and leave tomorrow morning to be with her in Texas for the week, its the last I'll be able to visit with her for a while. I hope it won't be the last.
All I know is she has high blood pressure which I believe also was caused by the Premarin. Her health has gone completely downhill - she evidently had been having TIA's for several months but didn't know it was such a serious symptom. Now we just have to work with treatment. We are checking out chelation. Please pray for her and all those women who are traumatized by this deadly drug. Thanks for this site - I'm sure it will save lives - I know I've already passed the info on to all my friends. Lynn
Date: Tue, 29 May 2001
Subject: Premarin
Hi, I've got questions! First, thank you for your site and I do thank you in advance for your responce. I am a 40 year old female who had a total hysterectomy (both overies removed) on 27 April 2001. The reason for this was cysts on my overies and endometreosis which plagued my since 1992. I also suffer with panic attacks and depression since 1992. After the surgery, I was started on Climara - estradiol trandermal system 0.05. I took these for three weeks. Just one week after surgery I began to have a burning in my chest, legs, arms and I would be dizzy at times and nauseated. I was told to ride it out and that my system would have to adjust with these patches. It continued and at my first post operation doctor visit I switched to Premarin 0.625. All the previous symptoms have continued and now I have pain in my chest and neck and palpitations where my heart beats real strong in my neck.
I have read these letters and I am wondering about other options than Premarin. I want something safe that will keep me from these side effect and avoid the things which happened to these people. I am thankful for them sharing. Can you offer advice? Again thank you. B.L.

Date: Mon, 28 May 2001
Subject: Premarin
Hello,
My name is Christine and I have been on Premarin for six years, since this time I have developed a rash on my hands and feet. I told the doctor but he says it is not from Premarin. I was wondering if you know any other problems from Premarin on the skin. I never had this problem before my hysterectomy. I do not like taking medicine from horses urine either. The pain is very severe my skin peels and cracks. I have seen many dermatologists, they prescribe many different ointments none have worked. One time I was prescribed prenisone the problem cleared up then two days after I finished the medicine the rash came back. Thank you, C.L.

Date: Thurs, 24 May 2001
Subject: My Experience
I had a hysterectomy in 1979 and was placed on HRT, Premarin and had been taking it up until the middle of last year (2000). Right now I am taking a natural hormone replacement made from herbs. While on Premarin, in 1995 I was hospitalized and diagnosed with Prinz Metals Angina. My doctor attributed this to the drug. My cholesterol levels were also extremely high. My recommendation is to look for a natural hormone replacement and that if any synthetic drug is prescribed that may have harmful side effects that one should consider the tradeoffs before taking such prescription. Personally I can deal with the hot flashes, but the prinz metals angina (which by the way can affect your insurance coverage and premium rates, etc.) is something I didn't want or need.

Date: Tue, 8 May 2001
Subject: Help please
I have been navigating in the internet where I found your address and I would like you to help me clear the following big doubt that I have regarding taking hormones. If you can't answer my doubts, please refer some doctor to me that can help. I live in Bolivia and I supposedly have a good gyn who has me on Premarin and Provera for last 7 years. However, lately I see a general practicioner for other problems and after having done another hormone evaluation test, he recommends that I do NOT take any more hormones. I had an inmunological test done (Estradiol E2) and the results show the following:30 pp/ml and supposedly the average should be 18 pp/ml, which according to him tells us that my strogen level is OK and that I do not need to take any hormones. However, I went back to my gyn and she insists that I continue taking them. Please see if you can help me, I will really appreciate it.
Regards, N.R., Bolivia, South America

Date: Sat, 28 Apr 2001
Subject: Alternative to Premarin
I have been taking Premarin 2.5 mg for almost 4 years now. I have only recently learned of what the drug is made of (yesterday, as a matter of fact). I am appalled that I have been taking this drug for so long. Not one doctor has every told me about what the drug is made of. I had a complete histerectomy and was thrown full force into menapause. The hot flashes have been so awful. This drug has helped me. The only side effect that I am aware of at this time that I have suffered from is water retention. The drug is also become so expensive. I do not have insurance to cover it. Is there any alternative that might help me through this situation so that I can stop taking this drug. A friend of mine has introduced me to a new product in which she is taking that's over the counter called "juiceplus". She says it helps her "hot flashes". In fact, she says she doesn't even have them. I am very much considering taking the juiceplus instead, if for anything but just to save money!
I was always told that I would forever have to take Premarin. I don't want to take a drug for the rest of my life. I would really appreciate any information or input that you might have concerning this matter.Thank you for your time and effort to inform the many, many women who need help. Sincerely,
R.T.

(Follow-up Letter)
Date: Tue, 1 May 2001
Subject: Alternative to Premarin
As promised, I have obtained information regarding Juice Plus+. There is a website where you can find out information regarding this product. It is www.juiceplus.com . This is a fast growing alternative to modern medicines. This is a healthier approach to fighting cancer, all sorts. The speaker I heard tonight is Bunny Jumonville who is a two time cancer survivor and the former national spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. Bunny serves on the advisory board at the Women's hospital in Baton Rouge, La. She lectures around the U.S. on women's health. Bunny is a national marketing director with National Safety Associates. She is actively involved as a volunteer for the American Cancer Society, but says her first priority today is her juice plus+ business because she knows she can do more good letting people know about juice plus+. A Dr. Friedman was also there tonight who was very much for the use of juice plus+ and has even started recommending this new alternative to many of his patients who have aids related cancers. I thought you might enjoy the website and information. The price of the products are higher than the over the counter medicines you mentioned in your previous email but still are cheaper that the Premarin. Sincerely, R.T.

Date: Fri, 27 Apr 2001
Subject: Website on Premarin
Thank you for your website on Premarin. I was just commenting to my husband that there should be a mechanism whereby women frustrated with the conventional HRT can come together and demand alternatives. I am now in the process of finding a physician who is willing to explore hormone saliva testing to monitor my changing hormone levels and then prescribe bioidentical hormones formulated just for me. I used Dr. Northrup's book to find a formulary pharmacy in my area and the pharmacist recommended three physicians in my area who have utiltized his services. Perhaps this is a way to locate a forward thinking physician in the management of menopause. After reading Dr. Northrup's book on "The Wisdom of Menopause", I am now very angry and frustrated that I have suffered needlessly for the last two years because my physician treated the symptoms of my perimenopause and did not listen to my needs. When I began to discuss hormone saliva testing and bioidentical hormones with my physician it was dismissed as being unnecessary and unreliable. The treatment is to be based on symptoms using conventional HRT! With that said, the physician handed me a prescription which increased my dosage of HRT and left the treatment room. I am not going back to that physician.
M.S., Sacramento, CA

Date: Fri, 20 Apr 2001
Subject: Premarin
Have you had any reports about tingling and burning in the mouth area from taking Premarin? I have been on the drug for about 6 years. I had a hysterectormy about 15 years ago, but started out on Estratab. Changed states and the doctor started me on Premarin. My dentist has suggested that maybe the symptoms are coming from the estrogen drug replacement. I have tried several different toothpastes and had what is called "magic mouthwash" and it hasn't help. Please inform me if you have any related information. S.H.
Date: Mon, 16 Apr 2001
Subject: Thank You!
Hello,
I want to thank you for the info you have supplied on this site. I have just recently began researching "Premarin". I was curious how it was made. I had heard that it was made from horse urine but frankly, I wasn't sure I believed it. I am shocked that this could go on in this country or anywhere else for that matter. I have said for a long time that I believed the horse was one of the most abused animals, now I know for a fact they are. Not to mention the deception by the physicians to the women who take this drug. I am so ashamed that I have been a part of such a thing!!! That's the way I see it. I'm only one woman but I have been taking this drug for a little over 3 years now. I'm very angry at my doctor for not explaining this drug to me in depth. I'm also angry that he didn't think enough of me as a patient to even give this drug to me (as well as his other patients). But I am also thankful that there are alternatives out there and that I do have a choice. I did try the herbal (Promensil) for a while but it didn't seem to work for me. I went back to the Premarin.

I thought I had to take something "prescribed" for it to be strong enough to work. Needless to say, I did not know what I was putting in my body! Now I have to find something that will work for me. I'm sure with all the choices out there I WILL find something because I WILL NOT take Premarin anymore! And, don't you know I am telling everyone I know about it! Talk about spreading the word, I'll do it. It's not enough that it's harming my body but I am also a horse lover! I have a beautiful red mare that I love dearly. She has brought so much happiness and joy to my life. I makes me sick to think about all those horses suffering like that. I am so angry, but I'm not really sure at whom. Myself for one for not being better informed, but thank God I am now! I am passing along this info to my mom she's one who thinks Premarin is all she can take), my friends at work and anyone else I come in contact with who takes this stuff. I have only begun reading about this. It just goes on and on. The more I read the madder and more disgusted I get. Isn't there something the government can do? I guess the question is "Will" do. It's all about money and greed........the downfall of this great nation. No one in Washington has any integrity either. Everyone's in someone else's pocket. I just wanted to voice my opinion and tell you how much I appreciate your information. I still have to research the different hormones and find out which one I want to try. Once again, thank you. You have helped to get one more woman off the Premarin! Ex-Premarin user, D.R.

Date: April 15, 2001
Subject: PremPro Caused Breast Cancer
I have breast cancer. According to DNA testing my cancer was "hormone fed." Another doctor said: "...taking hormones was like adding fuel to a fire." I quit PREMPRO the day my surgeon said I had cancer that was "hormone fed." I am in a law suit against the doctor who prescribed PREMPRO because he knew I had heart disease. I know PREMPRO is from a multibillion dollar company, but my intentions are not monetary. I am a high school teacher with over 25 years experience and am also a military veteran. I was on duty in the Army War Room during the Cuban Missile Crisis and worked in the Pentagon on the personal staff of General Earl G. Wheeler. I know "cause and effect." My cancer was caused by PREMPRO; for 57 years I went through life without a family history of breast cancer. Now my children and grandchildren have a different inheritance. I know how David must have felt against Goliath. Right will prevail; God is my pilot. D.S., AL

Date: Fri, 13 Apr
Subject: Ovarian cancer
I had ovarian cancer 7/1999. I had a complete hysterectomy. Had three chemos. I work full time and plan to work for the next 20 years. I love what I do. I teach WaterColors to adults. I have felt wonderful since then until now.
I have been trying to go off Premarin since the first of the year. I took it for a few years before surgery and since. I am 65 years, and when I try to go off of it I lose that good feeling of well being, can't sleep, vaginal dryness, back to dribbling urine like before I started it. I tried taken estradiol(generic for estrace) it doesn't cut it. I feel tense all the time. I Have all the PMS feelings I had many years ago. I am so on edge. Even my students have noticed. I need a safe alternative and much more info about it. Where can I go for easy to read, updated info. Can you help me??? Thank you, D.H.

Date: April 12, 2001
Subject: Premarin & Provera Caused Brain Aneurysm
My mother died on November 14, 1999 at the age of 57yrs. We were in shock, since she seemed in good health. She died of a brain aneurysm (cerebral hemmorage). She had been taking Premarin and/or Provera for about 8 years and had some high blood pressure. She was a light smoker. I think her death is directly linked to using the Premarin and smoking. I am 34 and I miss my mom dearly. I know that when it is my turn to go through menopause, I will stay away from any form of hormone replacement. Montreal, Canada

Date: Sat, 10 Mar 2001
Subject: Cenestin Thank you for your informative site and your concern about hormone replacement and the ill effects of Premarin on humans and horses.

I thought you might want to be aware that Cenestin is also a horse hormone--and as such, is no better for humans than Premarin (though is MUCH better for horses, because it is synthesized from plant sources and does not involve cruelty to horses).

Six of the nine estrogenic components of Cenestin are horse estrogens. As you may know, horse estrogen is more potent and attaches to human receptor sites much more intensely than human estrogen. Perhaps this is why there is a greater risk of cancer and adverse reactions or side effects than are experienced with natural (i.e., bio-identical to those made by humans) hormones.

Cenestin became available because Wyeth had a patent right on Premarin (restricting competition) and Duramed figured out how to synthesize horse hormone from plant sources (modern chemistry at work in the marketplace). Many physicians are presenting Cenestin as a "natural" hormone (because of shrewd detailing), when in the bio-identical sense, it is not at all "natural".

Yes, Cenestin IS a better choice than Premarin, when we consider the source. But it may not be a better choice when we consider the recipient.

You can see the "equillin" nature of Cenestin by looking at the package insert on the Duramed button earmarked on your site. Six of the nine components are "equillin".
Thank you again for your informative site.
J.M., Physician & Educator

{Follow-up Letter from J.M., Physician & Educator}
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001
Subject: Re: Cenestin
The question of long term hormone therapy is not easy to answer, but I believe the evidence suggests that judicious use of physiologically normal (i.e., similar to those of a healthy premenopausal woman) levels of natural hormones promotes a healthier and longer life for most women and reduces the risk of various disorders including osteoporosis, Alzheimer's, etc.

Those who have had hormonally sensitive cancer, and those who have had other disorders that might make them at risk from complications related to hormones (eg., recurrent thrombophlebitis) need to be cautious about long term replacement--and some should definitely abstain. Each woman needs to be evaluated individually. Past health histories and numerous other factors need to be considered before the choice is made.

Because there are differing opinions about long term therapy, it is important for each person to be well informed and to discuss the options with others who are knowledgeable about all of the possibilities. Unfortunately, many physicians and health care providers are not aware of natural hormones and can not provide information to their consumers. Thanks again for our conversation, and for your site.
J.M., Physician & Educator

Date: Sat, 31 Mar 2001
Subject: Premarin
Thank you so much for the informative letters on your site...I am 50 years old and I had a hysterectomy a year ago but still have one ovary. My hot flashes are unbearable and my quality of life has diminished. I am really desperate here. If anyone has any suggestions for a "safe" way to treat the "hot flashes", PLEASE help me! (Most everyone I know that is my age, takes estrogen...no help there!) Thank you again for the much desired "Truth" about Premarin...I will NOT fill my script because of what I read here...
I.L., MA

Date: Wed, 21 Mar 2001
Subject: Prempro
Hi - Just stumbled onto your web page. I started taking Prempro 3 weeks ago for my mood swings. I have been extremely tired, light-headedness at times, tingling of arms and nausea. I also take Monopril for my blood pressure. I am 53 years old and I went through the hot flashes 4 years ago and have not had any since. Since the only reason I am taking Prempro is for my mood swings, do you think it is a legitimate reason - does Prempro really help with the moods swings? I would appreciate a reply. Thanks so much, S.P.

Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2001
Subject: Premarin Pamphlet
I was at my doctor's office today and I picked up a pamphlet on menopause to see if it mentioned Premarin. It didn't specifically, but on the front it has a picture of Lauren Hutton. It reads:

"I take an interest in my health. That's why I'm glad I asked my doctor about estrogen loss at menopause and what I could do about it now." Lauren Hutton
on the back, at the bottom it says:
Copyright 2000, Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories Printed in U.S.A. May 2000 71394-01 Wonder if Lauren Hutton realizes she is promoting the death of thousands of foals, mares, stallions annually? Also, who would I contact regarding this or should I leave it alone? I wouldn't think Ms. Hutton is aware of how the drug is made...or at least, I hope that is the reason she endorsed the product. Thanks for your continued help for the horses and continuing education!
Gail
TIER Website: www.tierrescue.org
TIER, 8920 Limonite Ave., 123, Riverside, CA 92509
Thank you for helping us to help the horses!

Date: Sun 11, Mar 2001
Subject: Premarin
Hi-I've just been reading all the letters written about Premarin. Just yesterday I was with my Dr. and asked to be taken off this stuff. Both my mother and her sister were on Premarin, and both were diagnosed with breast cancer within 6 months of each other! They were on it for 40+ years. I have been on it for just under 6 years. I had a hysterectomy,(1986) leaving the left ovary. I started experiencing "hot flashes" 5 years ago, I'm 52. Ok, my question is: My blood pressure is up, my triglycerides are high,and I'm borderline diabetic. I've read the horror stories, what can I take instead, I DO NOT want to take this medication ever again. Thank you, for all the information, and letter sharing. I KNEW in my heart, this drug was NO GOOD. D.G., Minden, NV

Date: Sun, 4 Mar 2001
Subject: Premarin
Thank you very much for the enlightenment on Premarin. I am a 39 year old woman who had to have a complete hysterectomy 6 months ago. I have been on Premarin since then for my surgical menopause-needless to say I have had quite a few side effects such as headaches, weight gain breast tenderness and on and on. After reading the info on the website I now understand why. I have considered discontinuing the Premarin and not taking anything because I usually take only natural products when possible, but I'm allergic to soy so I'm having a hard time finding anything that would help that does not contain soy. If you have any info for me it would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, S.M.

Date: Thu, 1 Mar 2001
Subject: Articles on Premarin
I just read your articles on Premarin products. My doctor has advised me to begin taking a newer hormone product called femhrt (norethindrone acetate/ethinyl estradiol tablets) made by Park-Davis. Do you know anything about it? I would really appreciate anything as I have been unable to find out anything.
Thank you, M.B.

Date: Tue, 27 Feb 2001
Subject: Premarin
I had an LAVH/BOS Oct. 1999. I was started at .625 and increased twice and finally up to 1.25 Premarin* I have had rib pain for 16 months, a heaviness in my upper chest, neck pain on each side, tingling hands, bloating 365 days of the year, weight gain, increased sinus drainage, down in the dumps feelings, facial redness, extreme skin dryness, burning and dry vagina, increase stress level, my legs are swollen, my thirst has increased to dry mouth with 8 glasses of water per day. I went to the doctor last Thursday. He gave me antibiotic for sinusitis . My aches and pains are to be treated my Tylenol*. The upper chest ache was diagnosed as some slight congestion. My woman's instinct and your web site tells me to get off this Premarin*.. I stopped cold turkey . I replaced with Remifemin and with Pro Gest cream. Thank you for your site. D.G.

Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2001
Subject: HRT
I've been on HRT for about 12 years now. I'm 63 years of age. Although I don't take Premarin, I do take Estropipate. After reading the articles on HRT I would like to discontinue taking these drugs. I'm also on Provera. Is it safe to just abrubtly stop taking these drugs or do you think I sould go off gradually?
I'm absolutely aghast about Premarin!!!! Why would any ethical MD prescribe this? Thank you. B.L.

Date: Sun, 18 Feb 2001
Subject: Thanks
I want to thank you for your web page. I have just had a complete hysterectomy at the age of 42. I don't want to take hormones but the doctor keeps pushing them on me. Finally I went to my other doctor, who is an alternative medicine doctor, and he said the worse thing for me to do is to go on the HRT my ob/gyn is recommending. He said it could make some of my other problems worse. (I am in chronic pain).

So when I went back to my ob/gyn for my final post surgical check-up and I showed him the script that I had for natural hormones that was to be compounded specifically for me. He got mad at me and started to read me the riot act about how there have been no studies done on natural hormones. He threw the script aside. After my exam he gave me a free sample of Premarin and told me to use it because it was natural. "It's made from pregnant horse urine and I think that is natural", he told me, sarcastically. Of course I'm not going to use it and we had words about the whole subject.

He was very condescending and started treating me like a "stupid blonde". I got mad and told him I was NOT a dizzy blonde and that I had high school biology and I am college educated and I have to do what I think is right for myself. He let that go and said, "I'll see you for your yearly check-up." Anyway to make a long story short... I think I'll send him your web page. I'm sure he will find it informative. Maybe it will cause him to look at things differently. He'll probably be upset but so what. I know one thing, I'm going to find a new ob/gyn come next year.

Date: Thu, 15 Feb 2001
Subject: Premarin side affects
I had a hysterectomy in Dec. of 1988 and was put on Premarin patches before I left the hospital. Within weeks I developed patches of dermatitis eczema on everywhere I had worn a patch. My doctor attributed it to the adhesive on the patches. After surgery, I had mood swings, gained weight, and terrible crying spells. Everything was attributed to my hysterectomy.

In January of 1990, a mammogram showed a lump in my breast. It turned out to be a cyst but instead of a yearly mammogram, I had them every 6 months, and have developed a couple more.  I had eczema in varying degrees of severity and frequently took cortisone shots to alleviate my itching. In 1998, one of the cysts in my breast suddenly doubled in size and my doctor sent me to a specialist. He immediately took me off Premarin, saying that he was seeing entirely too many breast lumps in women who were taking it. Within 3 months of going off the Premarin, the cyst had returned to its former size and I've developed no more in the 3 years since I went off the Premarin. My eczema has not gone away, but instead of large patches that I got before, I only get tiny spots that disappear with topical treatment.

I would quit taking the Premarin anyway because of the way it's obtained, but I now firmly believe that it's not good for anyone, and would never advise anyone to try it. Thank You, K.H.

Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001
Subject: Premarin
I found your pages very informing. My twin sister and I both took Premarin, I felt wonderful on it. Since the age of fourteen I had a terrible time with mood swings. After my hysterectomy two years ago I was prescribed Premarin and my life changed. No more nasty tempers and I felt brilliant. However my twin was depressed, and had panic attacks. She had been a normal happy independent business woman, a very strong character and a great person. After Premarin she went to pieces and lost her business. She was told by her doctor that there was nothing wrong with her and referred her to a psychiatrist! She is about to lose her home, she has no money, and is almost giving up on life. This lady was ruined by this drug, whereas I felt wonderful, I am so confused now, do I keep taking them or do I stop? I am so scared after reading your letters page, help me understand this. F.K.

Follow-up Letter
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2001
Subject: Premarin
Yes please print my letter. You have convinced me to stop taking Premarin, I have also been in touch with our national newspaper, they are looking at your website and interviewing my sister and other women in Scotland who are very ill because of this poison. Although they knew of the problem they did not know about the horses, it is terrible. We must all do something to stop this dreadfull cruelty. We will keep you informed of the outcome and rest assured we will fight them all the way. Please print my email address and if anyone in the U.K. needs help, then I will be here for them: bribiba@hotmail.com

Date: Feb 12, 2001
Subject: Premarin
I have been on Premarin for about 20 years and have never had any problems. I had a total hysterectomy and was put on this drug at that time. I think I was about 45 and am 65 now.

Recently I went to my GYN and he wants me to stop taking Premarin. There is no record of breast cancer in my family. He used some sort of small hand held thing that he put in info for my age, the fact that I had a benign tumor removed from my breast some 48 years ago and I guess the lenghth of time I have been on the drug. My question is, do you think this is good advice and what natural things can I take to help with hot flashes and dryness. Thank you, B.A.M.

Date: Sun, 21 Jan 2001
Subject: Premarin
I had a total hysterectomy Nov.1999 and was put on Premarin. It was awful. I gained weight and my legs and fingers were tingling. I was tired and my thryoid medicine was constantly having to be changed. The doctor then put me on Estratest HS and the symptoms were the same except I gained weight faster. I then found out about ProCreme Plus ( a natural progesterone cream) that you apply twice a day. It works wonders. I found it on the internet. Just search under Procreme and you will find all of the information you need. I feel great now. Actually, I feel better than before I had the hysterectomy. I feel a lot of women do not have enough progesterone in their system as it goes to zero after a hysterectomy. Your estrogen level will remain at 40% to 60%. The doctor on this web site explained that a lot of women have "estrogen dominance".

I just want all of the women to consider their options. It has worked wonders for me.
B.D., Texas

Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001
Subject: Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy
As a true horse lover (I have 8 of my own), and as an informed consumer, I have from the start chosen NHRT. I have been taking these hormones now for 6 months and have just been informed that my insurance company has chosen not to approve them as they are not FDA approved. They have asked that I submit information that would support why I should need these rather than FDA approved items. This really annoys me to no end. Who can I contact to express my annoyance? I'm sure there must be many other women out there in the same situation? What can I do to affect some change in this attitude? Thanks, D.M.

Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
Subject: Premarin
Good article. I was 46 years old when I started to experience HOT FLASHES. I AM using estratab a long with prometrium. I made it clear to my doctor not even to suggest premarin. I have 3 horses and was educated about Premarin through my horse magazines. There should be a law to protect these poor defenseless horses. As long as they keep manufacturing the product, woman will keep taking it.

Date: Mon, 08 Jan 2001
Subject: Withdrawal From Estrogen
I have a question.
Are there any withdrawal symtoms from Prempro? I stopped in September and have had some joint and muscle aches and was wondering if they could have anything to do with stopping the Prempro. I've also had hot flashes again. Thanks, P.P.

Date: Sun, 07 Jan 2001
Subject: PREM PAC C - HRT
Dear Sir/Madam,
Re: HRT and side effects At present I am taking Prem Pac 'C', and lately (this is my fourth month) I have been feeling awful. Puffy eyes, leg cramps, and chest pains, and a very short temper (which could be due to stress) and high blood pressure, I have to have it checked again. I have been on two different patches, the names of which escape me at the moment, but they caused a frightening amount of hair loss, otherwise I felt fine - but I would have ended up BALD!! I don't know what to do as the doctor is unsympathetic; but I cannot bear the 'hot flashes' that I get.
All at once, dizzy, sick, out of control, and faint, I have to sit or lie down depending on the severity of the 'attack'. Sometimes I thought that I would go insane with the furness that was burning within me, at least those feelings have gone, only to be replaced by those in the first paragraph. Maybe you could help.

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PREMARIN SIDE EFFECTS REPORTED BY WOMEN AND DENIED BY DOCTORS - Letters 2001

Letters 2001

PREMARIN SIDE EFFECTS REPORTED BY WOMEN
AND DENIED BY DOCTORS - Letters 2001