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Menopause is defined as the state of an absence of menstrual periods for 12 months. The menopausal transition starts with varying menstrual cycle length and ends with the final menstrual period. Perimenopause means "the time around menopause" and is often used to refer to the menopausal transitional period. It is not officially a medical term, but is sometimes used to explain certain aspects of the menopause transition in lay terms. Postmenopause is the entire period of time that comes after the last menstrual period.
Menopause is the time in a woman's life when the function of the ovaries ceases. The ovary (female gonad), is one of a pair of reproductive glands in women. They are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries produce eggs (ova) and female hormones such as estrogen. During each monthly menstrual cycle, an egg is released f...
Do not use estropipate if you have:
Before using estropipate, tell your doctor if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use estropipate, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Estropipate increases your risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer of the uterus. Taking progestins while using estropipate may lower this risk. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using estropipate.
Long-term estropipate treatment may increase your risk of stroke. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using estropipate long-term. Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months) to determine whether you should continue this treatment.
FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use estropipate if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.
Estropipate can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. This medication may also slow breast milk production. Do not use if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Take this medication with a full glass of water.
You may take estropipate with food or after a meal to reduce stomach upset.
Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using estropipate.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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