Ortho-prefest - Estrogen/progestins - Oral Brand Drug

General Information

• Below is miscellaneous information regarding Ortho-prefest.
• USES: This medication is a combination of hormones (estrogen and progestin) used to treat symptoms of menopause (e.g., hot flashes, vaginal dryness) and to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) in people at high risk. If you are only being treated for vaginal menopause symptoms, products applied locally such as vaginal creams, tablets, or rings should be considered before products taken by mouth or absorbed through the skin. There are several medications (e.g., raloxifene or bisphosphonates) that are safe and effective to prevent or treat bone loss. These medicines should be considered for use before estrogen/progestin HRT therapy for osteoporosis. If you have other medical conditions as well, and are prescribed estrogen/progestin HRT for more than one condition, consult your doctor about your treatment plan and its options.
• WARNING: Combination hormone replacement therapy estrogen and progestin HRT should not be used to prevent heart disease. Two-drug combination hormone replacement therapy can infrequently cause cancer of the breast, heart disease e.g., heart attack, stroke, dementia, and blood clots in the lung pulmonary embolism or leg. Estrogens may also increase the risk of cancer of the ovary. These risks appear to depend on the length of time this combination is used and the amount of estrogen per dose. Therefore, two-drug HRT should be used for the shortest possible length of time at the lowest effective dose, so you obtain the benefits and minimize the chance of serious side effects from long-term treatment. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. If you use this drug for an extended period, you should be evaluated at least once a year. See Notes section.

Usage Instructions

• Take this medication by mouth at the same time each day, usually once daily.
• It may be taken with food or immediately after a meal to prevent stomach upset.
• Do not increase your dose, take it more often than directed, or stop taking it without first consulting your doctor.
• Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist.
• Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

What To Do In Case Of Missed Dose

• If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
• If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
• Do not double the dose to catch up.

Drug Compatibility Recommendations

• Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of.

Possible Side Effects

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, stomach upset, bloating, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, fatigue, nausea, weight changes, increased/decreased interest in sex, and breast tenderness may occur.
• If any of these persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
• Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur.

Overdose

• If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include.

Read Before Using Ortho-prefest (precautions)

• This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions.
• Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have.

Ortho-prefest Miscellaneous Notes

• Do not share this medication with others.
• Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
• You should have a complete physical examination, including blood pressure measurements, breast and pelvic examinations, and a PAP test (for vaginal cancer), at least once a year.
• You should also have periodic mammograms as determined by your doctor.
• Follow your doctor's instructions for examining your own breasts, and report any lumps immediately.
• Non-drug therapy to help prevent bone loss includes a weight-bearing exercise plan and adequate daily calcium and vitamin D.
• Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Ortho-prefest Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
• Brief storage between 59 to 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted.
• Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep all medicines away from children and pets.