Menopause is a natural event in every woman's life. However, some of the changes that come with it can be a bit disturbing. You may also experience things like sudden hot flashes, sleeplessness, and irritability for no reason. Today, we are going to talk about a medicine that doctors recommend to help during times like these.
What kind of medicine is this? (Drospirenone; Estradiol)
Simply put, this is a pill that contains a combination of two hormones. That is, Drospirenone (a type of hormone called Progestin ) and Estradiol (a type of hormone called Estrogen ). With menopause, the levels of these hormones in our body decrease. This medicine works to restore those decreased hormone levels to some extent.
The main benefits you get from this are:
- Reduces the number and severity of hot flashes that occur with menopause.
- Relieves symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, and pain during sexual intercourse .
You may see this medicine in Sri Lanka under the brand name `Angeliq`, but it may be available under other names.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Since this is a hormonal medication, it is extremely important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition. If you have any of the conditions below, be sure to tell your doctor before starting this medication.
| Do you have these conditions? |
|---|
| Blood vessel disease or a history of blood clots |
| Cancer of the breast, cervix, endometrium, or uterus |
| Depression |
| Diabetes |
| Endometriosis or fibroids |
| Gallbladder disease |
| Heart disease or a recent heart attack |
| High blood cholesterol or high blood pressure |
| Kidney or Liver disease |
| Migraine headaches |
| If you have had a stroke |
| Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) |
| If you smoke (especially if you are over 35 years old) |
| If you have vaginal bleeding for no apparent reason |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding |
| If you have an allergic reaction to any other medicine, food, or dye |
How should I use this pill?
The way to use this is very simple.
- Swallow the pill with a glass of water.
- Try to take the medicine at the same time every day . This will help you get the most out of the medicine.
- Do not drink more than the amount prescribed by the doctor.
- Always read the patient package insert that comes with your medication. It may contain updated information.
What to do if you miss a dose?
If you forget to take a pill, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next pill, skip the missed pill and take the next pill at the scheduled time. Never take two pills at once to make up for a forgotten one.
What do you do if you drink too much?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Therefore, never share it with anyone else.
What other medications may interact with this medicine?
Some other medications you take may interact with this hormone pill, so it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
| Do not take this medicine with | |
|---|---|
| Bosentan | Some medications for HIV/AIDS (such as Amprenavir, Atazanavir) |
| Metyrapone | Some anticancer drugs (Aromatase inhibitors) |
| If you are taking this medication, inform your doctor. | |
| Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) | Some antibiotics |
| Medication for high blood pressure | Diabetes medication |
| Anticonvulsant medications (such as Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) | Antifungals |
| Painkillers (NSAIDs) | Herbal medicines such as St. John's Wort |
| Blood thinners such as Warfarin | Grapefruit juice |
*This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about everything you take.*
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Regular medical checkups: While taking this medicine, see your doctor at least once every 6 months for a complete checkup. Also, talk to your doctor about the need for breast exams, pelvic exams, and mammograms at regular intervals.
- Smoking: If you are a smoker, especially if you are over 35, your risk of blood clots and stroke is much higher while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor about this.
- Swelling: This medicine may cause water retention in the body, causing swelling in the hands, fingers, or ankles. It may also increase blood pressure. If you experience any of these changes, tell your doctor.
- If you suspect you are pregnant: If you have even the slightest suspicion that you are pregnant, stop taking the medicine immediately and talk to your doctor.
Possible side effects of the medicine
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately or go to the hospital. | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of a blood clot | Leg pain, swelling or warmth, difficulty breathing, chest pain. |
| Breast changes | New lumps, redness, pain, and discharge from the nipple. |
| Symptoms of a heart attack | Tightness or pain in the chest, shoulder, arm, or jaw, nausea, shortness of breath. |
| Symptoms of a stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking, confusion, difficulty walking, severe headache. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and dark urine. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Breast pain or tightness | Headache |
| Irregular menstrual cycles or spotting | Mood swings |
| Stomach pain | Weight gain |
Take-Home Message
- This is a hormonal medication that is given to control the symptoms of menopause.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- Take your medicine at the same time every day, exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Be aware of the symptoms of serious side effects such as blood clots, paralysis, and heart attack. If you experience any of these, seek medical advice immediately.
- The risk is very high if you smoke. Talk to your doctor about it.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
- It is mandatory to undergo medical examinations at regular intervals.
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