THE TRUTH ABOUT PREMARIN

Women Report Side Effects of Premarin/Prempro
That are Denied or Ignored by Doctors

+ Letters 2003

Letters 2003


CONTRIBUTE TO DOCUMENTARY ON HRT & MENOPAUSE

April 24, 2003

Greetings! My name is Stacy Bloom and I am a documentary filmmaker. I am writing to you because I am in the "R&D" stages of my next film, which primarily focuses on how women experience menopause and what kind of an influence society at large has on their experiences and thus, their health. Much of the film will highlight HRT (as applied and as studied) in the past century. This web site has already proven to be a tremendous resource in enabling me to get started. It's obvious that a great deal of time and effort has been put into the site and I'm extremely grateful, as are many other women I'm sure. I can already tell that this site is a collective extension of a growing community of women interested in sharing information about HRT and women's health in general.

Currently, I'm searching for women who were/are on HRT and are willing to share their experiences with me. I'd like to explore how different women experience menopause, what doctors recommended to them & why, and what ill or beneficial results they reaped (mentally, physically, emotionally). I feel like it would be especially helpful for me to hear from women who were actually involved in the WHI study if possible. I'm also interested in hearing from women who choose to use natural alternatives to HRT (why and what the results have been).

I'm eager to learn about personal stories, as I don't intend this to be a science driven journalistic piece. I intend for this film to reach out to people on a more basic human level and to help doctor's and women make more informed choices.

I am happy to answer any further questions that anyone might have of me. I understand and respect the personal nature of this topic, and thus intend on acting accordingly in any future discussions I may have with women responding to this letter.

Sincerely,
Stacy R. Bloom
Oakland, Ca.
bloomnpix@earthlink.net

Date: Sat, 21 Jun
Subject: Almost Bled to Death From Premarin
Hi, I am not sure if you will be able to post this letter on your website or not, but be my guest. In 2000, my doctor put me on Premarin, telling me I was entering menopause and should start on HRT to keep track of bone density, because I have spinal problems. After a couple of weeks on Premarin , I started slightly bleeding, every now and then. The doctor told me That was normal some women do this. I kept complaining about it because, the bleeding was heavier, and constant. Same response from the doctor. After months of Bleeding I became anemic, same response from the doctor, and then I was just a special case that had to take longer to adjust, I was brought in to  the emergency room one night bleeding and not letting up no matter what they tried. I was bleeding to death! They had to do a hysterectomy, or die right there. Stay away from Premarin! I lost a lot from not having the information I needed to make my doctor pay attention to me, the patient. It makes no difference to those doctors out there, I lost so much. I lost part of me. I know that sounds drastic, but when someone removes part of your body, you have lost a lot, and you can't get it back. But they don't care. Beware ladies, beware.
Thank you,
K.S.
Editor Note: The letter above and others like it are the reason I have the boldface title: "Women Report Side Effects of Premarin/PremPro that are Denied or Ignored by Doctors". They simply do not listen to women who report their side effects. If this doctor had his spouse or female relative on Premarin with the severe bleeding, would he have kept her on it and ignored it as he did with this woman until it was almost too late and her life was in danger? Shame on this doctor and shame on the medical community who continue to ignore women's input and/or complaints of serious side effects from Premarin. Reports of increased risk for breast cancer, heart attacks and strokes and blood clots have come out over the past few years and doctors always said, "Lets not panic and wait until the big studies come out". Well, the big studies came out - last July 2002 the WHI (Women's Health Initiative) was stopped because of the significant increase in breast cancer, heart attacks, strokes and blood clots for women using PremPro compared to those on a placebo. Doctors DO NOT WANT TO ADMIT THAT SOMETHING THEY HAVE BEEN PRESCRIBING FOR YEARS IS ACTUALLY CAUSING GREAT HARM. Old prescribing habits die hard and women are paying the price and I believe in some cases they are paying with their life.

Date: Thu, 1 Jan 2004
Subject: Re: Letter from Laura
I read a letter on your web site from a lady named Laura in texas,it was regarding lumps in lymph nodes and glands. I checked your sign in book but didn't see her email address. Is there anyway you could contact her to drop me a line I would love to talk to her about her condition because I am having the same problem. My lymph nodes are getting larger and the doctors don't know why. I had two removed they can't find andthing wrong. Last week I found a lump on the side of my neck, and not sure what that might be. I to take Premarin. I would love to talk to Laura is there anyway you can help. Laura wrote to you on July 19,2003. Please reply. Thanks, B.M.

Date: Tue, 23 Dec 2003
Subject: Premarin Recovery
Please advise.
I have a very dear friend who is experiencing most of the awful & harmful side effects of Premarin that your web site letters refers to.
My dear friend is in chronic condition and I'm trying to help her research what her recovery therapy might be, if any.
Do you have any suggestions, recommended web sites and/or contacts that I can use to advise my friend? She is so bad that her health and mental condition does not allow her to research her alternatives.
Thanks for any help,
D.J.

Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2003
Subject: Premarin and Seizure
Dear author,
I found your site while doing a search on Premarin. I was put on Premarin about 3 weeks ago because of suspected menopause (I am 41, and was bleeding 3 out of 4 weeks per month). I have a tubal (just in case) and uterine freezing scheduled for February. Tuesday night, for the first time in my life, I had a grand mal seizure (convulsing, eyes rolling back, unconciousness for 5-6 minutes). The ER doctor put me on Dilantin. I see a neurologist on Monday. I've been thinking about anything and everything that has changed in my routine, and the only common factor is the Premarin. I do not have the strength and energy to read all of the letters on your site, and was wondering if you could tell me if you've heard of any similar stories. Thanks for your help.
D.D. W.

Date: Mon, 24 Nov 2003 - (Follow-up to Nov. 21 Premarin & Seizure)
Subject: Re: Premarin and Seizure
Thank you for replying to my email. To answer your questions, my dosage was .625 mg. daily. As a side note, and to show just how negligent some doctors can be, he originally gave me samples of .625 with directions to take one per day. When those ran out, he wrote me an RX for DOUBLE that amount. When I asked why he was doubling the amount, he simply replied, "Oh, did I do that? Oh well, if your symptoms have subsided on the .625, let's just stick with that." Yeah, let's.

Anyway, I've been off of everything now for almost a week. No more seizures, and no menopausal symptoms either. I'll discuss it today with the neurologist and see what he thinks, but I'm heavily leaning toward a naturopathic solution. Thanks again for your help.
D.D. W.

Date: Mon, 24 Nov 2003 - (After appt. with neurologist - 1st letter Nov. 21)
Subject: Re: Premarin and Seizure
You have my permission to post my letter.  My neurologist advised me to NOT take the Premarin, just in case it caused the seizure, and because I haven't had any hot flashes since stopping it. Thanks again for all your advice and time. Best regards,
D.D. W.

{Editor Comment} A prime example why women need to take their health literally into their own hands - especially when some doctors seem to have their head on sideways. Is it any wonder women are made seriously ill from pregnant mare's urine (Premarin) when doctors aren't even concentrating when writing out a prescription???

Date: Mon, 17 Nov 2003
Subject: Quitting Premarin - A Wise and Compassionate Decision
Hello,
I don't have all the questions answered yet that I am looking for, but I am going with my gut feeling and getting off of Premarin. My doctor is a kind man but his position is that I remain even though I have had questions and wanted alternatives. Premarin scares me and the symptoms should be a wake up call to me...combine that with the horse treatment...Premarin is history. I shall cut down slowly and be free in a couple of months. Thank you for this web site. What would be extrodinarilly wonderful, is a detail diet on the particular items that will help us.
Thanks,
Keri

{Editor Comment} It is best to taper off Premarin gradually as this woman is doing. A diet on soy foods and other suggestions on treating menopausal symptoms naturally will be posted as time permits. Please check back periodically.

Date: Thurs, 30 Oct, 2003
Subject: Hysterectomy - Then Divorce
I am the spouse, a husband who's wife had a hysterectomy, both overies removed and "cleaned out" as her doctor put it. It now makes me sick knowing what I am learning. Unfortunately it may be too late to save my marriage because my wife swears by this doctor who has her on Premarin .625 every morning and whom never informed her or myself of all the side effects of not only the procedure but this drug. My wife came home last week and anounced she no longer loves me, has seen someone else and has no feelings for me anymore, and insists there is nothing wrong or changed, this just happened. The HERS Foundation has a website which lists factual effects from hysterectomies. My wife is a walking exhibit. Her personality has turned, she is depressed, irrational, disfunctional as a wife and mother...on and on, and I am scared and worried both for her and our marriage, which may be done. I am fighting a losing battle trying to get her to see a therapist, and her doctor in the hopes her doctor will prove to be a good one and not try the CYA explanation but try to help us. I am so upset I (we) were never given this information that is out there. I am sending you a copy of what I sent the HERS Foundation asking for any kind of help or advice. I am writing you for the same if you have any to offer. Thank you.
Sincerely,
J.A.

Editor Comment: There are no words to express my contempt for doctors who continue to callously give women these uneeded (the majority are uneccesary) hysterectomies. To use the words "Cleaned Out" when describing a woman having a hysterectomy is despicable. Would they speak that crude and vulgar if it was their wife, daughter, or other female relative?? I doubt it.
See my additional comments on hysterectomies after the following letter and a shocking report on 20/20 about unecessary hysterectomies.

Date: Thurs, 25 Sep 2003
Subject: HELP, HELP, HELP!!!
Hello and thanks for all you have reported on, I am writing because I need help or advice on some major problems I am having. Over 11 years ago I had a total hysterectomy and was put on Premarin 1.25 in the A.M and also Premarin 0.625 in the P.M. In the past 6 months or so I have had very high blood pressure and a very high pulse while doing nothing at all, just sitting still. No one could explain WHY??? I thought it might be the Estrogen. So the doctors ordered a blood test which showed that my total estrogen was over 1500, and to my understanding it is to be under 40 - WOW right. Well since that test, the doctors have tried to decrease the Premarin to 0.625 in the A.M. and also 0.625 in the P.M. This we did for about 2 months and I noticed slight changes in my blood pressure and pulse. Now for two weeks, today being 9/25/03, they have changed the Premarin to 0.625 int he A.M. and also Premarin 0.3 in the P.M. For some reason the chest pains have increased 100-fold and I am having a lot of tingling in my face, my blood pressure is normal and my pulse is running 68-84... I guessI a m scared to death that now decreasing the Premrin is causing me some major health and/or withdrawal problems. I am not sure and not one of the doctors seems to be able to help me at all.
If I go to the ER - they think it is in my head.
So please if you or anyone out there can HELP ME, give me a name of someone to talk to. Can decreasing Premarin cause any of this?
What should I watch out for? Can I die from any or all of this? What should I do ? Thanks for anything you can do.
Tina
EMAIL: Ohanna7@AOL.COM

{Editor Comment} Giving this woman a double dose of Premarin is more than than likely the reason for all of her health problems. I've never heard of taking 1.25 Premarin in the A.M. and 0.625 in the P.M. "It's all in your head", appears to still be the standard phrase for doctors if they don't know what is causing a woman's health problems, or won't admit it is Premarin/PremPro and don't want to be bothered. Why do they keep prescribing a drug that everyone now knows can cause more health problems than it prevents. The majority of the letters I receive from women start with: "X number of years ago I had a hysterectomy, my doctor immediately put me on Premarin (pregnant mare's urine) and then my health problems began".

On August 22, 2003, on ABC television program 20/20 it was reported that if a woman lives in the United States, she is 4 times more likely to have a hysterectomy than any other country. The majority of these hysterectomies are being performed because of fibroids, (fibroids are very common in most women) and are not a legitimate reason to perform a hysterectomy - cancer yes, fibroids no. Approximately 90,000 women will have a hysterectomy in a year and the majority of those are because of fibroids. It was also stated on 20/20, if a doctor gives a woman a hysterectomy, it will eliminate about 6 phone calls to his office. So, it appears one of the reasons for so many uneeded hysterectomies (at $7,000 per operation) is to cut down on calls to their office. One very serious unwanted side effect of a hysterectomy that doctors do not tell women is that it will more than likely end a woman's sex drive. How do you doctors live with yourselves?? You have no conscience whatsoever. Would you castrate your male patients the way you do female patients? I think not.

Date: Mon, 22 Sep 2003
Subject: Doctor Lied
How do I contact some of these letters.  I am almost 62 years old. Had a total hysterectomy when I was 38. I searched for a year for a doctor to do only one ovary. They all said the risk of going under a second time was greater than have a complete one done. I found a doctor, who lied and took both out (the second one being fine) and he gave me a staff infection to boot. I was put on Premarin immediately. The first week my eyes went. My greater than 20-20 vision was gone. I could only see about 1/4 of the distance I had previously. The doctor told me I was nuts.  A hysterectomy has nothing to do with your eyes. I am having a very serious problem with dizziness and pain on the left side of my head behind my eye. I have numbness down the left arm, chest pain, and have found a clavical blockage and a prolasped heart valve.  The doctor put me on an antivert medication. It did nothing. I insisted he find out what was wrong. After all kinds of tests I am told basically to live with it, everyone has some dizziness. The last medication was for depression and the last consultant said I was depressed. Must be the catch all for illness. How or who can correct what is going on with me? If you can help, please contact me:
Kathy Macht
3240 16th Street
Vero Beach, FL 32960

{Editor Comment} I have been keeping email addresses from letters I receive private, (unless otherwise specified). However, for those who wish to communicate with others regarding what they are experiencing, please click on "View My Guestbook". There you will find women's comments along with their email addresses. Some of the comments in my Guestbook may also appear on my Letters Pages.

The statement everyone has some dizziness is totally absurd - unless you are referring to the doctors who keep prescribing Premarin (which is 10 times stronger than a woman's natural hormones) totally ignoring all the serious harm it can cause as stated in the termination of the WHI. The conclusion of that study was: THE RISKS OUTWEIGH THE BENEFITS - not THE BENEFITS OUTWEIGH THE RISKS as they had thought for years. This woman is having significant health problems, ie; dizziness and pain on the left side of her head, numbness down the left arm, chest pain and a clavical blockage and a prolapsed heart valve and none of her doctors is doing anything to help her. The product insert sheet that should come with a Premarin prescription clearly states Side Effects With Estrogens and/or Progestins: among those listed are the following: Headache, migraines, dizziness, faintness, or changes in vision (including intolerance to contact lenses). Under Warnings, #7: Visual Abnormalities: Discontinue medication pending examination if there is a sudden partial or complete loss of vision.
Be Alert For Signs of Trouble: Abnormal bleeding from the vagina, Pains in the calves or chest, a sudden shortness of breath or coughing blood (indicating possible clots in the brain or eye, breast lumps, yellowing of the skin, pain, swelling, or tenderness in the abdomen. There are many other side effects from Premarin or PremPro and anyone taking either of these dangerous drugs, should be sure to read the insert sheet to know what to look out for.
When I questioned my doctor about all the possible side effects of Premarin, he said, "Hrumph - maybe they should tell you what can happen if you don't take it." Well, we all know what will happen if we do take it, since the WHI was stopped in July of 2002 and this study revealed significant increase in breast cancer, heart attacks, strokes and blood clots - so what will happen if WE don't take Premarin or PremPro? WE will probably ALL live a lot longer and healthier life!!! For any doctor to continue pushing Premarin on women after the results of this study, I feel is insane. WOMEN: SAVE YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR LIFE - YOU NEED TO BECOME INFORMED AND BE YOUR OWN BEST HEALTH ADVOCATE SINCE IT HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY CLEAR THAT YOUR DOCTOR IS NOT.

Books that are must reading:

THE TRUTH ABOUT HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY, How To Break Free of the Medical Myths of Menopause, by the National Women's Health Network, 2002;


THE HYSTERECTOMY HOAX: The Truth About Why Many Hysterectomies Are Unnecessary and How to Avoid Them by by Stanley West;


THE GREATEST EXPERIMENT EVER PERFORMED ON WOMEN, Exploding The Estrogen Mythby Barbara Seaman; 2003


SEX, LIES AND MENOPAUSE, The Shocking Truth About HRT, by T.S. Wiley & Julie Taquchi, 2003


All of these books are available at any good book store such as Barnes & Noble, Borders, Amazon.com and/or possibly your local library.


Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2003
Subject: Premarin
In 1984 I had a total hysterectomy, I have been taking Premarin ever since. Now I'm hearing about all the side affects, which concern me. My friend gave me a box of Estroven to try, do you think this is better for me? I'm 58, and really in good health, that I know of. I haven't seen a doctor in 3 years. I do still get hot flashes, and get moody.
Thank you,
Bev E.

Date: Wed, 8 Oct 2003
Subject: Premarin 1.25MG
I have been placed on Premarin for two months. Why? I do not have a menstrual cycle and I am 37. I had a laparoscopy two years ago to make sure my tubes were okay to have a baby. Since then, I have had no cycle. I have been told I have something caused by aggressive scraping of the uterus. This drug was prescibed to thicken the uterus. I have taken 4 pills so far. Now I am scared to take any more after reading your site. Ugh! I will continue searching and check with my family doctor and the GYN who recommended this new doctor who prescribed this drug.
C.H.B.

Editor Comment: Doctors always prescribe Premarin first (telling women it is the only thing available) when starting a woman on HRT ignoring the various FDA approved alternatives of which there at least 14 others. One, Ogen has been on the market 40+ years, Estrace (generic Estradiol) has been on the market for 20+ years and it is the next most prescribed after Premarin. Many women do much better on these alternatives being plant derived from yam and/or soybeans - than they do on Premarin which is at least 10 times stronger and has many more side effects. Think of it, a horse weighs around 1300 to 1500 lbs. compared to a woman 125 or 135. Doesn't it follow equine estrogen will be much stronger than a woman's natural hormones? There is also no way to filter out all of the impurities in equine urine. Please click on Chart of Common Prescription Estrogen Drugs
to see the various FDA approved drugs that have been available for many years. Be aware, however some of the same risks may also apply to these alternatives, but many women who were taking Premarin and then switched to Estrace (from yam and soybeans) have done much better with far fewer side effects. These alternative estrogen drugs should also be taken at the lowest dose for the shortest time possible.

Date: Fri, 19 Sep 2003
Subject: HRT and left up the creek!
I'm stunned! The last 2 weeks newspapers and TV talk show have been telling us females that we've let doctors play with our health by putting us on hormone replacement therapy. I've been on Premarin for just under 20 years, ever since my hysterectomy. Twenty years ago my life was a hell with frequent migraines per week, excessive bleeding and menopausal symptoms. Since popping the Premarin daily my life has been a new awakening. Now my GP takes me off cold turkey and says that he does not know of an alternative. What I'm angry about is that no doctor, male or female, has ever thought of ringing a warning bell. It is too absurd for words that no doctor has ever thought of asking why there is no printed cancer warning on the packet. Ignorance is too easy, because I believe that they knew then and they know even more now. God knows what else they keep hidden from us innocent women. If I play with the health (i.e., life) of another human being I'll end up in a cell for life and I have to pay for damages. It must feel great to be a manufacturer and get a way with it all. Whatever, my life is now back to 20 years ago and a decent night sleep is a wet hotflush dream. You feel fine now, Premarin manufactorer, are you satisfied? Now what?
S.W.
Date: Sat, 30 Aug 2003
Subject: Greatest Experiment Ever Performed on Women
I am also interested in this subject. - Greatest Experiment Ever Performed on Women by Barbara Seaman. Is there any reason to believe that estrogen in younger women may also be harmful? Are there cumulative side effects over time? If women use estrogen from the age of 16, is there a chronic effect that you know of?
Sincerely,
J.C.
Date: Fri, 29 Aug 2003
Subject: Premarin and Breast Enlargement
I have a concern. I have been on Premarin since May of 1991. I have had a few of the side effects mentioned, but I did not see or read about the one that as affected me the most: Enlargement of my breasts. When I got on this drug I was a 36 C. Till a few weeks ago after under going breast reduction surgery I was 38 DDD. I need to know if there is any study that indicates that the Premarin caused this or not because I was not on any other drugs during this past 12 years? Please email me if you have had this same effect: Jazzgom@aol.com
Thank you,
J.G.
Date: Thurs, 28 Aug. 2003
Subject: Dizzyness, Tingling & Nausea after 10 Yrs. on Premarin
Is it possible to start having dizziness and tingling in left hand symptoms after being on Premarin for 10 years? I have been experiencing dizziness for about 8 months and my left hand started tingling a few weeks ago. I also get other tingle spots in my feet and legs but not as often. My hand tingles every day. It starts out in my hand and works its way up my arm.
The dizziness most of the time accompanies nausea. I don¹t have it every day, but it has gotten more frequent in the last few months. I would appreciate your input.
L.S.

Date: Mon, 25 Aug 2003
Subject: Need Help With Premarin Withdrawal Symptoms
I started weaning myself off .625 premarin alone 3 weeks ago on a new gyn's advice. I'm 65 and have been on it for about 11 years. I did every other day for 2 weeks and this past week I started 2 a week. About 3 or 4 days ago, I started feeling tense and irritable, I can't sleep and when I do I have nightmares, and my hot flashes are still here, albeit not as severe as 11 years ago. All in all, I feel miserable. I just found your web site and read the letters. I'm amazed that I identify with so many of the writers' symptoms. I gained weight, have high blood pressure, and also experience itching in only one place on my back. Now I'm wondering if Premarin is my villain.
At any rate, I'm anxious to get off it, but I need help. I didn't like the new gyn so I'm trying to decide whether to call a new doctor and make another appointment or if I can do this on my own. I printed info from other web sites that told me how to wean myself using natural progesterone cream. Of course, now my dilemma is that they all tote their cream as the one to buy. Which one? Who do I believe?
Thanks,
Theresa

Date: Wed, 20 Aug 2003
Subject: Re: Alternatives to Premarin
Thank you for responding to my email. I had a total hysterectomy in 1997 due to endometriosis and was prescribed Premarin. I began to read about the medication and began to become really scared.

I am a single parent with a one child who just graduated from high school. I am 43 years old and have never had a hot flash and if I did, I am on the go so much, I really didnt know the diffrence and thought it was just the sun or something.
I have ashtma, (take Claratin) and a rare allergy and when I began to get side effects, the doctor told me he does not believe it is because of the medication. I feel like a medicine chest about to explode. The doctor never mentioned any warnings for this medication perscribed to me. It wasn't untiI I began to have side effects that I looked closer at the medication and then began to search for an answer when I came across your website.

I was not aware about Premarin and the cruel collection methods from horses. I only know that when I started taking it, I went from 120 lbs. to 200 lbs.

When I talked to my doctors about my concerns, weight gain, and everything else -- they all said it is in my mind and the best thing for me to do is change my eating habits which I did and execise more which I have, but still no change. I plan to continue to work at it to show myself and the (so called doctors) they are wrong. I have been taking lots and lots of calcium and eat fruit as a routine now. If you have any further updates, I would appreciate it very much if you could forward any changes to me and thank you for all the information that you have provided. Sheila

{Editor Comment}: The best change this woman could make (in addition to quitting use of Premarin) would be doctors - Apparently the only thing that may get their attention are lawsuits. As anyone can plainly see from this letter and others like it they (ie, doctors, the medical community, and pharmaceutical cos.) will never admit Premarin is the problem. To them the main problem is women who complain to them that Premarin is not working well for them and report all the serious side effects they are experiencing - they do not want to hear this, so they deny, ignore it, or simply tune it out and continue pushing Premarin telling women their complaints are all in their mind. Does this sound like the year 2003 or the Dark Ages? So, many doctors will continue to prescribe Premarin like business as usual to the detriment of women.

Date: Wed, 20 Aug 2003
Subject: Doesn't Want To Continue With Premarin
In 1996, I found out I had endometrioses. I was perscribed premarin and have been taking it since 1997 when I had a hysterectomy. I now suffer from dry mouth, cramps, breathing problems which increased, sinus problems, vision problems, and a host of other things. I have read so much about this medication. The only thing I keep hearing is for women to stop taking it.
My question is: If we don't have natural harmones and we need them - what do we take? I know it is dangerous to take but what happens if I stop taking it? I have been taking calcium for my bones every day, but it only help eliminate the cramps every now and then. I have not a clue what it is doing for the bones. Some times I have to take two just to stop the cramping. If I'm not going to take Premarin to replace the harmones, what is the safest drug to take in it's place? I now began to suffer with tenderness of the breast.
I have an appointment to see the doctor. To me, it is a get paid job, because they keep telling me the same story that my life depends on it if I don't take the pills I could die. I have been taking the pills since 1997 and now effects are beginning to show. What can be done?

Date: Mon, 18 Aug 2003
Subject: Won't Take Sample Pack of Premarin
Hello, I just had a TAH on August 5th, 2003. My doctor gave me sample packs of Premarin 0.3mg, along with a prescription. After reading all the letters on your site, I'm horrified! I'm not taking any of them. I kept looking at the package, but didn't take any. Now, I know I won't. However, my grandmother had a TAH years ago, and she got nasty as could be. Her doctor said it was because her hormones changed from having the operation. I DON'T want to be like that either. So, is there something out there that's safe to use to keep the hormones balanced? I'm 45 and I don't want anything else to go wrong because of taking some kind of pill. I'm also a happy go lucky person who doesn't want to get nasty like grandma did due to a hormone inbalance. Please advise me of anything that your writers suggest.  D.S.
  
Editor Comment: There are a number of over-the-counter products that some women have found helpful with hot flashes and night sweats: New Phase, Revival Soy, NovaSoy, Remifemin, Promensil, Estroven, Rejuvex to name just a few. These plant based products are not anywhere near as potent as Premarin (pregnant mare's urine) which is at least 10 times stronger than a woman's own natural estrogen. Also, natural hormones are available by prescription from compounding pharmacies across the country. You can read about natural hormones and compounding pharmacies on my home page. Even natural hormones should be taken for the shortest time possible. The American Heart Association now suggests the tried and true approach which is of course, the safest way of all to treat menopuase (either surgical or natural menopause): Exercise on a regular basis, preferably weight bearing exercise at least 30 minutes 3-4 times a week or more, eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, consume some soy foods such as soy milk, soy nuts, vegie burgers, tempeh and tofu, limit your intake of caffeine subsituting herbal non-caffeine tea or other beverages and take a good calcium supplement of at least 1500 mg per day.

Date: Fri, 8 Aug 2003
Subject: Docs Won't Admit She has Alzheimers
My wife suffers from severe dimentia, and has been taking Premarin, or other estrogen products for many years. None of the doctors seem to think she has Alzheimers, but this doesn't lessen the loss of memory or the effects of memory loss on herself or me. Both of us have gotten to the point that we simply do not trust doctors to tell the truth. Any input you can give us will be greatly appreciated. Thanks,
W.C.

Editor Comment: It is pretty obvious why the doctors do not want to admit this woman has Alzheimer's - Premarin was supposed to prevent Alzheimer's and it was reported in JAMA recently that taking Premarin can actually cause Alzheimer's.

Date: Sat, 16 Aug 2003
Subject: Doctor Tells 75 year old woman to get off Premarin
Today my 75 year old mother who lives with me told me about her doctor visit. She was told to get off Premarin permanently. She has COPD, asthma, a rash on her legs that cannot be diagnosed and weighs 225 pounds and is 5 foot 2. She has been on Premarin for many many years. She insists that I also stop the Premarin. I had a total hysterectomy in 1991 and was started on Premarin at that time. The last 2 1/2 years have been a nightmare. I started wheezing in the middle of the night and then I was admitted to the hospital through the ER twice within the last year hypoxia/asthma. I've had polyps too numerous to count in my bladder, an itchy rash in my ears. I just went to a dermatologist who says I have rosea or perioral dermatitis on my face, and have had 3-4 episodes of blacking out for a split second. Two of these have been in my car and scared me to death. I felt as though the oxygen had been shut off to my brain. I've spent a fortune on prescriptions and tests and don't appreciate being told its stress. Of course I'm stressed, who wouldn't be when no one knows what's causing all this. What do you recommend for hot flashes and sleeplessness which I tend to have when I forget my Premarin. Of course, now that I think of it I don't sleep too well now. I forgot to mention that I've gained 85 pounds since my hysterectomy. Could some of my symptoms be from Premarin and what do I do now? L.F.A.

Date: Sun, 3 Aug 2003
Subject: Heart Attack, Gallbladder Surgery, CAD, etc. While on Premarin
Just found your article on Premarin, and read the letters from other women. Heartbreaking and scary all at the same time.
I have been on Premarin since I was 27, and just turned 58. I was in pretty good health, at least I thought so. After I had a hysterectomy at 27, the doctor put me on Premarin. I never realized to this day that all the illness that I been having could have come from taking this drug. I always complained of muscle and joint pain, and I can't tell you how much I spent through the years trying to find out why I always hurt. All the doctors used to tell me it was anxiety and stress. I had a heart attack at 47. I know that runs on my fathers side, but now I am wondering if that didn't contribute to the cause. I also suffer from fibromyalgia. The doctors called it something different back in the 70's. Now I suffer from CAD. It seemed when they did not know what was wrong with me I was having some sort of surgrey. Gallbladder, neck surgery, rotator cuff. I had a total of 17 surgeries. One more thing, I never knew what Premarin (pregnant mare's urine) was made of, and maybe through the years I heard but forgot. I asked many times do I need to be on this drug and they all said yes. It will protect my bones. Well it didn't protect them in the long run. I am now on Fosamax for the last year. It showed in my bone density that it is helping. My Gastroentrologist told me to get off premarin, but my other doctor said there isn't alot of proof. Which one should I listen to. I've known my Gastroentrologist for 30 years. He has been telling me to get off for years, but others have said stay on. They put me on Lorazepam, and Ambiem, I want to get off of all these meds. What is your opinion? By the way I am allergic to Horse Serum, Maybe that is why my health went down the tubes.
Thank you for alerting us women about Premarin. I will get off this drug. I started on my own. I'd rather suffer from hot flashes then another heart attack or stroke, or even death. God Bless You.
P.U.

Editor Comment: The fact that this woman is allergic to horse serum should have been a red flag and she never should have been put on Premarin in the first place. More than likely all of the health problems she has suffered are due to Premarin. Since heart disease runs in her father's relation, is another strong reason she shouldn't have been on Premarin. Doctors should always talk with women about their health background, but this does not seem to be the case. If they did, many women would not have to endure horrendous health problems such as this woman did. Ever since the WHI July 2002 study found that "The Risks Outweigh the Benefits", negative studies continue to be reported every 2 or 3 months. Another was recently reported on NBC Nightly News - On August 8, a British study found that HRT significantly increases breast cancer risk, especially when women receive a combination of estrogen and progestin. This report and the WHI conclude that the main use for HRT now, is to control hot flashes and night sweats, that is if you are willinging to live with all the potential harm it can cause to your health. There is no safe length of time for using HRT. Someone predicted a number of years ago that HRT will go down in history as one of the all time biggest medical mistakes ever made and that prediction has come true.

Date: Fri, 8 Aug 2003
Follow-up to: Sun. 3 Aug 2003
Heart Attack, Gallbladder Surgery, CAD, etc. While on Premarin
I am now completely off Premarin. No matter if I have the hot flashes, it will just last for a little while, at least I will be alive.
My pharmacist also recommended I get off Premarin. She won't take it either, and believes most of my problems are related to Premarin. My husband wanted me off Premarin for years. I do feel some changes, but they are for the good.
I met someone who just had a hysterectomy, and her doctors put her on Premarin and progestin. She says she is having troubles with swelling in her body. I told her to go off Premarin. She will let me know how she is doing, plus she is a smoker. I told her the warnings and she seemed to listen. I only hope she does. Again thanks for alerting us women and God Be With You.
Sincerely
P.U.

Date: Thu, 28 Aug 2003
Subject: Thank You
(2nd. Follow-up): Heart Attack, Gallbladder Surgery, CAD, etc. While on Premarin
Thank you for the update on Premarin. I talked to another friend who was going on the medicine, and she has now decided she won't take it. She will try something else for her hot flashes.
As for myself, I am completely off Premarin. I am a little shakey and have some hot flashes, but I will have a healthy life without Premarin. I am finally growing my own hair back, since I've been off Premarin. How about that! Also, some of my dark spots on my face have already disappeared.

Thanks again,
P.U.
Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2003
Subject: Had Heart Attack While on Premarin
I just found your page about Premarin side effects. I was put on Premarin following a full hysterectomy 10/99. I have tried different doses and changed for a short time to Estratest.I have gained about 20 pounds and have itching inside my ears. I still have occasional hot flashes and experience mood swings. I take .657 mg. a day and wake several times a night. Last fall I had what the doctor called a stress related heart attack and was prescribed Nitro to carry. Now I wonder if it was Premarin related. After reading letters from other women, I find all I have experienced have been experienced by women on Premarin. Thank you for the web site.
M.N.
Grand Rapids, MN
Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2003
Subject: 15 Years of Premarin - Has Breast Cancer
I have been doing a lot of research this last week on Premarin. I had hysterectomy in 1988 and was given Premarin 1.25 mg. Last week I had a mastectomy because of breast cancer in my left side, but decided to do the right breast also because of previous lumps in the right side. I was told that the tumor was hormone fed which means to me that the Premarin was the cause of the tumor. In my mammogram last year nothing showed. Thank God it has not spread anywhere else, but I will still have to have chemo. This medicine needs to come off the market before it harms anyone else.
Thank you for your letters.
T.L.

Date: Sun, 20 Jul 2003
Subject: Withdrawal From Premarin
I have read with interest the letters on your website. This is my first attempt at going to the internet to get information on premarin withdrawal. I have a question and would like to know if you can answer it, or can direct me elsewhere. I have been on low-dose premarin for 18 years following a total hysterectomy at age 40. I recently was told I have an elevated level CRP level, and understand that estrogen replacement therapy can be a cause. I am otherwise very healthy. I have begun to withdraw from Premarin, cutting the pills in half, and have started experiencing minor hot flashes. Previously I tried to stop the Premarin but the hot flashes were severe and I went back to it. I am willing to do whatever it takes to get off the Premarin, but wanted to know if anyone can tell me what I might expect, and how long it might take. I know this is different for everyone, but my male gynecologist is the last person to be able to help me with this question! Thanks for any guidance you may share. B.S.
Date: Sat, 19 Jul 2003
Subject: Questions Re: lumps in lymph nodes and glands
Hi, I just found your web site and I must say it is wonderful. I've learned a lot of different things about Premarin and how it is extracted from horses. I am 32 years old and I had to have a complete hysterectomy when I was 26 years old due to endometriosis. I was put on 1.25 mg premarin a day since then. Just lately I've discovered enlarged lymph nodes and glands in my neck, CT scan has showed them to be of a solid nature and not fluid filled cysts. The doctors are telling me they don't know what it is...."to give it time". I have also been experiencing extreme hot flashes, shortness of breath, dizziness and extreme exhaustion. I'm not usually like this at all. I usually have energy and have only had hot flashes when I first had my hysterectomy. I was wondering if you have had any women write with the same symptoms and if this could be related to the Premarin usage. I would so appreciate if you had any advice or information for me. Thank you very much,
Laura in Texas

Date: Sat, 19 Jul 2003
Subject: Feels Better After Stopping Premarin
I had a complete hysterectomy (ovaries) 9 years ago. I was given Premarin and told I was to take it until the second coming. I had side effects and was given various other estrogen products only to be put back on Premarin again. I was eventually put on the smallest dosage available, but still felt ill from it. After hearing all the hoopla, I decided to remove myself from it. I slowly went from daily to every other day to twice a week and finally once a week. I have not suffered through menopausal symptoms by weaning myself from this drug. However, I do have a concern, should I be taking an alternative? I feel fine, actually better, without the estrogen. Thanks,
Jo

Date: Thu, 17 Jul 2003
Subject: Nurse Says Get Off Premarin Immediately
I just finished reading this page about side effects from Premarin. I have been on Premarin since 1992. I am now 44 years old. Recently a nurse at my doctor's office has told me that I need to get off these pills immediately. I am so nervous now. I have not had any side effects thus far, (that I know of). But reading about these women who have suffered terrible side effects makes me very concerned. Your feedback would be appreciated. Thanks,
  L.S.

Date: Mon, 14 Jul 2003
Subject: Menopausal Hot Flashes
Where can I get natural hormones for menopause? I tried one on-line company and I am still having non-stop hot flashes.
Thank you, N.K.

Editor Comment: There are around 15 FDA approved alternative prescription drugs to Premarin. However, they may also have the potential for some of the same health problems Premarin and PremPro have caused. There are a number of over-the-counter products that may be helpful with hot flashes and night sweats. A few of them are: Revival Soy, Healthy Woman, by the makers of Monistat, New Phase, Estroven, Remifemin, Promensil, Rejuvex and others. These over-the-counter products are available in most drug stores and/or health food stores. These plant based products are not nearly as strong as Premarin or PremPro and therefore will take longer to feel the effects. They may take from several weeks to a couple of months to notice a difference, but they do not have the potential for causing all of the serious health problems women have suffered from Premarin or PremPro.

Date: Sun, 13 Jul
Subject: Re: Premarin Side Effects
Thanks for the quick response. I don't mind telling you that I had my surgery because the doctors wouldn't believe me when I said something was wrong. I was in the Navy and went to the doctor when my monthly period was not the same as before and I was having abdominal cramps. The doctor wouldn't believe me and sent me home. To make a long story short, I had an ovarian abcess that ruptured and spread. By the time the doctors did anything, the only thing they could do was take everything. I am now considered 50% disabled through the VA and get a check every month. It took a long while, but I have dealt with it, gone on with my life and have three beautiful adopted kids, so I think my life turned out wonderful. The GERT I spoke about was GERD, better known as acid reflux disease. Sorry for the typo. I have an appointment with my new doctor on the 22nd, a woman, so I will discuss going off the pill then.
J.S.

Date: Mon, 30 Jun 2003
Subject: Developed Breast & Uterine Tumors While on Premarin
I have been on Premarin since I was 34. I had tumors in my uterus and had to have surgery. The next year my breast had tumors and they had to remove both. I had silicone implants put in and I still have them. I am now 60 and my doctor is taking me off Premarin. I get very tired and sleep a lot. My legs hurt and now have low blood pressure. They checked my heart and it was beating too slow. I still work but I'm tired all the time. I got on the computer and found out what Premarin is made of. That makes me sick at my stomach! I don't know if it's too late for me or not. I have been on it for too long. I just have to pray and live one day at a time.
A.B.

Date: Tue, 24 Jun 2003
Subject: Premarin & Breast Cancer
I was 49 when I had a hysterectomy and was put on Premarin 0.9mg. Now I am 54 with a new finding in my mammogram with calcifications of the left breast. A needle biopsy was done and it turned out to be pre-cancerous cell. I had surgery to remove a large mass from the duct and a gland removed. They got all the mass and the gland was negative. I thought I was out of the woods and it turns out I'm not because of the margin in the breast is showing positive there is still cancer cells present. I had a decision to make on whether or not to have radiation to get rid of the cancer cells and there would still be a chance they would come back again. I would have to have surgery again and a choice of mastectomy. I chose mastectomy and reconstruction of the breast during surgery.

I think I made the right decision and I still wonder if Premarin was a a contributing factor to calcification of the left breast. I have mammogram testing every year. Nothing showed up in last year mammogram at all. The doctor called with the results and told me to get off Premarin.

Is there anyway to find out if Premarin was a contributing factor to the calcification in the left breast and do you think it could appear in the right breast. How long does it take to get that stuff out of your system? I have been off Premarin since the end of March 2003. Later on they want to put me on a hormone that would prevent cancer cells from coming in the right breast. I would like information on that. Just to hear the word hormone, I don't want to have anything to do with them.
M.L.H.
N.Tennessee
Date: Tue, 24 Jun 2003
Subject: Premarin Quandry
I am 68 years old and have been on Premarin for about 10 years. So far I am not aware of blood clots and have not had any heart problems (to my knowledge). When I was 52 I had a complete hysterectomy. At that time I still had hot flashes. As of today the hot flashes are gone. But I do have trouble sleeping at night and I find that when I miss a day or two of the Premarin I start with the facial hairs on my chin. My blood pressure has gone up and I am now doctoring for that, and I do have trouble losing weight, I am also border line for osteoporosis. I do not know if any of this is connected to the Premarin. Currently I am searching wherever and whenever I can about HRT. I guess my point in writing this to you is I'm not sure that Premarin is causing problems for me or not. I have been advised by both my family doctor and my gyn to go off of the Premarin. But because I have been of the opinion that it has helped me they have not taken me off of the Premarin or given me alternative ideas. Any help you can give me in my quandry about what to do would be appreciated. Thanks, Rose

June 28, 2003
Subject: A question about Premarin and liver disease
Hi, I just found your web site...Wonderful job... Do you know if there is any connection between Premarin and liver disease. My doctor just diagnosed me with primary biliary cirrhosis. I  almost never drink. I was reading that Premarin affects the liver. I am scheduled for a liver biopsy after the 4th of July. PBC is an awful chronic disease so I'm reading. Anyway, I was hoping you might be able to point me in the right direction for information. I had a total hysterectomy in May 2001 complete with the ovaries out too. The doctor put me on .625 of Premarin. I have never had liver problems until a complete checkup this past spring which diagnosed an abnormality in liver function...and the saga continues. Anyway, any information would be great. Thanks,
A R.
Date: Wed, 11 Jun 2003
Subject: HRT IS HARMFUL!!
I am 43 years old and I took Premarin in April May and June Of 2001. I stopped after developing a clot that will remain with me for the rest of my life. It extends the entire length of my left leg in the femoral vein with a complete blockage. I will never be the same again. I find out this has been happening for a very long time and that makes me even madder. Tell your readers that if they experience leg pain and tiredness, get checked for blood loss to begin with and then for a DVT.
Mary in Texas

Date: Fri, 20 Jun 2003
Subject: Premarin and Dermatitis
I have been on Premarin for over 15 years now. I have had this terrible dermatitis for over 8 years. My back, arms, neck and chest are completely scared from scratching in my sleep. I have been to 9 dermatologists and to the Mayo Clinic and the University of Colorado for help. I have seen two allergists. They have all given me cortisone creams, oils, lotions, anti-itch pills, anti-itch creams. You name it, I have tired it. On my own, I have resorted to applying hot Epsom Salt compresses to the area twice a day to stop the infection and itch. It has been the only relief I get. I have asked my doctor time and time again if it could be the medications I am on. Synthroid and Premarin. No!!! always was the answer.

I would go off for a week at a time and see no improvements so I would go back on. I was going out of my mind. Then my sister who worked at a drug store told me to come off the Premarin because of all the bad publicity it was getting. Heart attacks and stroke and so forth. I have been off the Premarin 8 weeks now and my dermatitis has cleared up. I cannot believe it. After 8 years of suffering night and day. No new blisters, no more itching. Praise the Lord. I backed off the Premarin slowly. I did not stop cold turkey and as long as I was on it at all I had new blisters. Once off the Premarin, I am trying a natural cream called "Gentle Changes" with Activin. It is made from water,Gylcerin, Stearal Konium, Natural Progestrone derived from Mexican Wild Yam, Alovera Oil, Grape Seed Extract, Vitamin A. Palmitate Rosemary extract, Dong Qual, Cramp Bark Sarsaparilla, Carrot Oil and Lemon Grass Oil. Do you know anything about this? I know I need something because of the dryness. I have had very few hot flashes. I am 66 and had a partial hysterectomy when I was 28. I cannot believe I have no more itches. It is like a miracle. I wanted to share this with you. It may help someone else. Thank you.
"Premarin Free,
Dermatitis free in Colorado"

Date: Thu, 29 May 2003
Subject: Doc Says Premarin is the Only HRT Drug - (Not)
Thank you for the informative article. I have been trying to talk to doctors for quite some time about something to take besides Premarin and they look at me like I am crazy. I told them that I did not want to support such a cruel business and would prefer an alternative and they told me there was nothing else. Now I know that there are natural products available, however what I did not know was all the "palm greasing" going on. Of course as the lights finally go on, what else? I had a complete hysterectomy at 23 years of age and was told it was Premarin for life. Thank you with all of my heart for this article. Everytime I took a pill, I felt crappy about it and now I have the knowledge to take control of my life. It is people like you who help people like me to do better for ourselves and take control of our lives again. I love animals and feel much better about this whole issue, thanks again.
Sincerely,
Sheryl

Editor Note: Premarin is of course in a class of its own since it is the only estrogen drug derived from pregnant mare's urine a fact that doctors fail to mention to women and which most women are unaware of. Horse estrogen is at least 10 times stronger than the naturally occuring hormones found in a woman's body and that fact is the reason why many women have the serious side effects from Premarin. It is totally foreign to a woman's body. Premarin is only one of about 15 other FDA approved estrogen products available by prescription. These alternatives are plant based derived from yam and/or soy and more closely duplicate the hormones in a woman's body than pregnant mare's urine. Ogen, for example, is derived from yam and soy has been available for over 40 years.
Congress is working on putting an end to the "palm greasing" that has been going on for years. It has been reported that pharmaceutical Companies spend between $10,000 to $13,000 per year per doctor to persuade doctors to push their drugs.

Date: Wed, 28 May 2003
Subject: Premarin
So much controversy over the use of estrogen alone as opposed to the combination of estrogen and progesterone. I had a complete hysterectomy 30 years ago and have been on estrogen alone all this time. Eight years ago I had a heart attack. One main artery shut down. At that time I was smoking. I was not exercising or watching my diet. I had lost my husband 2 months prior to the heart attack, so my gyn never took me off the estrogen. Now I'm being told by my primary doctor and gyn to go off the estrogen. My cardiologist says the studies are inconclusive. What a dilema! They're now claiming a connection to Alzheimer's. I'm 77 years of age and have never had any menopausal symptoms. Certainly don't care to lose my mind. Would like to hear from you.

L.B.

Date: Tue, 13 May 2003
Subject: Premarin & Alzheimer's

Hi,
I have been reading all the side effects of the Premarin and am seriously considering elimination of this drug from my daily regime. I had a hysterectomy at the age of 35 and am now 52. I was placed on Premarin 1.25 mg the minute I left the operating room. Since I have been taking this drug the following has happened:
I have gained 110 lbs, have high blood pressure, migraines, had gallbladder surgery last year and now am experiencing leg cramps and extreme fatigue. The doctors keep telling me to exercise, and I keep telling them that I have lege cramps so bad that I can't even walk without cramping up. Besides, I am so tired all I want to do is sleep. I have never weighed as much as I do now and I am so depressed about it. I want to stop taking the Premarin, but my mother has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and some doctors say it is because she had an early menopause and was not on HRT of any kind. Is this possible? I see how this disease has devastated her life and I am at a complete loss as to what I should do. Can you help me? I need to know that someone understands what I am going through. Thanks for listening even if you can't help.
Blessings,
Diane

Date: Sun, 6 Apr 2003
Subject: I wish I would have known about Premarin sooner!
I am a 51 year old woman who had a total hysterectomy back in 2000. Since then I have been on .325 Premarin. Before the operation/Premarin I was a healthy but over weight woman with low blood pressure and as one of the doctors put it "the healthy heart of a woman 10 years younger than me." I did have allergies to dairy products, and dust, and a slight case of asthma. However, strange things have happened to my health since then.
  Immediately after the surgery, I had a yeast infection and was put on an antibiotic - but when I went back to the GYN she said it was not "strong enough" and gave me another one. That caused a bladder infection (another antibiotic) followed by several more. During this time, I also had one sinus infection (also immediately after I started the medication). However, I lived through them without antibiotics and they would go away and return. My GYN sent me to an allergist who said I was allergic to dust (big surprise) and suggested allergy shots. I declined.
  Things went well for a while, then I started to have really bad migraine headaches and what my doctor thinks is sleep apnea. If I sleep at all, it is either very heavy and I have trouble waking or getting up - or it is so light that I "know" I am dreaming but still don't wake up right away. However, most of the time I am sleepless in Maryland!  This was followed (accompanied?) by a lot of itching (sometimes extreme - I went to the hospital twice and had to have benedrill drips) dry patches (brown and white) and more alarming - strange - often violent - brain shifts. Brain scans show nothing. I also have a tightness in my chest, a swishing sound in my head when turning over in bed at night, leg and knee cramps, and bloating. My blood pressure is now very high (it was always 110/70 before) that is all the doctors seem to care about. Meanwhile my weight keeps going up and I am so exhausted I can't get out of bed on the weekends. I have begun to simply step over piles of clothes, etc., in my house. I am depressed to the point of suicide at times - especially during the itching spells which come and go. I seem to have allergic reactions to almost all medications now and even my old savior Benedril doesn't help that much any more.

  I have had my legs examined for blood clots but did not have them. Nor was there any blood clots in my brain. But day after day I get worse. I have had so many allergies to the blood pressure medicines that they have tried me on (most latest one was Spironolactone - 25 mg) that I am now off all of them for 2 weeks and then I go back to the doctor to talk about where we should go from here.
Today I read all of the letters that have come in from woman taking Premarin and suddenly I see my symptoms in a different light. I read about heart problems, blood pressure problems, skin problems, etc. etc. etc. and I now believe that this is possibly my problem. Last year when I found out that Premarin contained Pregnant Mare Urine, I asked my GYN what I could go on that was natural. She said "let's wait another year and see what the research finds. I have heard pros and cons." So I did. And now look at me! Please Sonja, do you see as much of a connection with my symptoms and Premarin as I do. Especially since taking the blood pressure medicine and Premarin combo? I need to know what to do. I go back to the GYN in May again. But think maybe sooner might be better. Also - if you agree that there does seem to be a connection, I was thinking of doing a pill every other day until then - to lesson the threat of a heart attack or worse happening to me until then. Thanks for listening. My friend told me to read your "letters" 2 years ago and I regret not doing so sooner.
Thanks,
Joy

Editor Note: Another tragic story that might have been prevented if doctor's would keep up with current findings about Premarin and listen when a patient complains about ailments such as this woman did that began after using Premarin. All of her health problems can be directly attributed to her use of Premarin. This woman complained of the side effects and yet her doctor kept her on it. More proof that many (not all) doctors want to keep on the good side of the pharmaceutical comapnies and do not put women's best health interests first. Apparently some doctors need to be reminded of the hypocratic oath "FIRST DO NO HARM Thousands of women have been harmed by Premarin and many class action lawsuits are in progress for women whose health has been severely compromised due to their use of Premarin or PremPro. A recent report in Jama (Journal of American Medicine) has stated that not only does Premarin not prevent Alzheimer's Disease, but can actually cause it according to the WHI (Women's Health Initiative) when compared to women using a placebo. The WHI (Women's Health Initiative) was stopped in July of 2002 because of the increase in breast cancer, heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots for women using PremPro compared to those on a placebo. Part of the study using Premarin alone continues. Prevention of heart disease was the main reason for putting women on Premarin (pregnant mare's urine). It has now been proven that Premarin does not prevent heart disease and women should not be put on it for that reason.

The medical community is going to have to admit that - the very diseases Premarin was thought to prevent can actually be caused by Premarin/PremPro. That is not to say that all women will get these diseases from Premarin, but the numbers were significant enough for the WHI to be stopped with the conclusion:
"THE RISKS OUTWEIGH THE BENEFITS".
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Sonja Timmers, e-mail: nrsprntg@athenet.net
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