Version July 2025
There is an increased risk of endometrial cancer in a woman with a uterus who uses unopposed estrogens. Adding a progestin to estrogen therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer. Adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated, should be taken to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding.
Estrogen-alone therapy should not be used for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) estrogen-alone substudy reported increased risks of stroke and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age) during 7.1 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg), relative to placebo.
Estrogen plus progestin therapy should not be used for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported increased risks of DVT, pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke, and myocardial infarction (MI) in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age) during 5.6 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg) combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate (2.5 mg), relative to placebo.
The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) estrogen plus progestin substudy demonstrated an increased risk of invasive breast cancer.
Estrogen-alone therapy should not be used for the prevention of dementia. The WHI Memory Study (WHIMS) estrogen-alone ancillary study of the WHI reported an increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years and older during 5.2 years of treatment with daily conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg) alone, relative to placebo. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women.
Estrogen plus progestin therapy should not be used for the prevention of dementia. The WHIMS estrogen plus progestin ancillary study of the WHI reported an increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years or older during 4 years of treatment with daily conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg) combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate (2.5 mg), relative to placebo. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women.
In the absence of comparable data, these risks should be assumed to be similar for other doses of conjugated estrogens (with or without medroxyprogesterone acetate) and other dosage forms of estrogens (with or without progestins). Estrogens with or without progestins should be prescribed at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman.
Osteoporosis, postmenopausal, prevention:
Premphase: Oral: One maroon conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg tablet daily on days 1 through 14 and one light blue conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg tablet daily on days 15 through 28.
Prempro: Oral: One conjugated estrogen/medroxyprogesterone acetate tablet once daily; maximum dose: One conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg tablet daily.
Note: Patients who are recently menopausal (<2 years) with a uterus may benefit from a cyclic regimen (continuous regimens may be associated with unscheduled bleeding) (Ref).
Vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause (alternative agent): Note: For use in symptomatic patients who are <60 years of age or within 10 years of menopause who do not have contraindications to hormone therapy (eg, breast cancer) (Ref). Nonoral estrogen preparations are preferred in patients with hypertriglyceridemia, risk factors for venous thromboembolic disease, active gallbladder disease, and/or migraine headache with aura (Ref). Combination products are only indicated for patients with a uterus; the progestogen (ie, a natural progesterone or synthetic progestin) component prevents estrogen therapy-associated endometrial hyperplasia. Use of a combination product offers less dosing flexibility for initiating and tapering estrogen compared to separate estrogen and progestogen products.
Premphase: Oral: One maroon conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg tablet daily on days 1 through 14, followed by one light blue conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg tablet daily on days 15 through 28.
Prempro: Oral: Initial: One conjugated estrogen 0.3 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 1.5 mg tablet once daily; dosage range: conjugated estrogen 0.3 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 1.5 mg per day to conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg per day. Note: Initiate the lowest dose and increase approximately every 4 weeks as needed to relieve symptoms (Ref).
Duration of therapy: Not clearly established; continued use may be appropriate in patients ≥60 years of age or >10 years after menopause with a low risk of cardiovascular disease and breast cancer and with persistent vasomotor symptoms after attempted taper/discontinuation of estrogen and trial of alternative therapies. Evaluate routinely for comorbidities and appropriateness of lower doses, nonoral routes of administration (preferred in patients ≥60 years of age), choice of progestogen, and discontinuation of therapy (Ref).
Vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause: Note: When used solely for the treatment of vulvar and vaginal atrophy (ie, genitourinary syndrome of menopause), topical vaginal products are preferred (Ref).
Premphase: Oral: One maroon conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg tablet daily on days 1 through 14 and one light blue conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg tablet daily on days 15 through 28.
Prempro: Oral: One conjugated estrogen/medroxyprogesterone acetate tablet once daily; maximum dose: One conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg tablet daily.
Note: Patients who are recently menopausal (<2 years) with a uterus may benefit from a cyclic regimen (continuous regimens may be associated with unscheduled bleeding) (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturers labeling (has not been studied).
Use is contraindicated with hepatic dysfunction or disease.
Note: The Beers Criteria recommends avoiding systemic estrogen therapy in postmenopausal patients ≥65 years of age (independent of diagnosis or condition). In older postmenopausal patients already taking systemic estrogens, consider deprescribing (Ref). Duration of use is not clearly established; continued use may be appropriate in patients ≥60 years of age or >10 years after menopause with a low risk of cardiovascular disease and breast cancer with persistent vasomotor symptoms after attempted taper/discontinuation of estrogen and trial of alternative therapies. Evaluate routinely for comorbidities and appropriateness of lower doses, nonoral routes of administration (preferred in patients ≥60 years of age), choice of progestogen, and discontinuation of therapy (Ref).
Refer to adult dosing.
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
Also see individual agents.
>10%:
Central nervous system: Headache (15% to 19%)
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain (7% to 17%)
Genitourinary: Mastalgia (13% to 36%), dysmenorrhea (3% to 13%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Edema (≤4%), peripheral edema (2% to 3%), hypertension (2%), vasodilation (≤2%), chest pain (1%), palpitations (≤1%)
Central nervous system: Depression (7% to 8%), pain (5%), emotional lability (3%), dizziness (2% to 3%), migraine (2% to 3%), nervousness (1% to 3%), anxiety (2%), hypertonia (1% to 2%), insomnia (1% to 2%)
Dermatologic: Pruritus (2% to 6%), skin rash (2%), acne vulgaris (≤2%), alopecia (≤2%), skin discoloration (1% to 2%), diaphoresis (≤1%), xeroderma (≤1%)
Endocrine & metabolic: Weight gain (3%), decreased glucose tolerance (≤1%), hypermenorrhea (≤1%)
Gastrointestinal: Nausea (6% to 8%), flatulence (4% to 8%), diarrhea (≤6%), constipation (2%), increased appetite (≤2%), eructation (≤1%)
Genitourinary: Leukorrhea (3% to 8%), breast hypertrophy (2% to 5%), pelvic pain (2% to 5%), vaginal hemorrhage (≤5%), vaginitis (2% to 4%), breakthrough bleeding (1% to 4%), uterine spasm (1% to 4%), vulvovaginal candidiasis (1% to 4%), cervical changes (1% to 3%), abnormal Pap smear (≤2%), breast engorgement (≤1%), urinary incontinence (≤1%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Malignant neoplasm of breast (≤1%)
Infection: Candidiasis (≤2%), infection (≤1%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Weakness (3% to 6%), back pain (2% to 7%), leg cramps (2% to 4%)
Respiratory: Pharyngitis (>5%), sinusitis (>5%), flu-like symptoms (≤1%)
<1%, postmarketing, and/or case reports: Abnormal uterine bleeding, amenorrhea, anaphylactoid reaction, anaphylaxis, angioedema, bloating, breast tenderness, cerebrovascular accident, change in appetite, change in cervical secretions, change in libido, chloasma, cholestatic jaundice, contact lens intolerance, cough, deep vein thrombosis, dementia, endometrial carcinoma, endometrial hyperplasia, erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, exacerbation of asthma, exacerbation of epilepsy, exacerbation of tics, fibrocystic breast changes, galactorrhea, gallbladder disease, hirsutism, hypersensitivity reaction, increased serum triglycerides, irritability, ischemic colitis, malignant neoplasm of ovary, meningioma (benign; possible growth), myalgia, myocardial infarction, nipple discharge, pancreatitis, pulmonary embolism, retinal thrombosis, rhinitis, superficial venous thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, upper respiratory tract infection, urticaria, uterine fibroids (increase in size), vomiting, vulvovaginal candidiasis, weight loss
Angioedema or anaphylactic reaction to estrogen, medroxyprogesterone or any component of the formulation; undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding; DVT or PE (current or history of); arterial thromboembolic disease (eg, stroke, MI) (active or history of); breast cancer (known, suspected or history of); estrogen-dependent tumor (known or suspected); hepatic impairment or disease; known protein C, protein S, antithrombin deficiency or other known thrombophilic disorders; pregnancy (known or suspected).
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Anaphylaxis: Anaphylaxis requiring emergency medical management has been reported and may develop at any time during therapy. Angioedema involving the face, feet, hands, larynx, and tongue has also been reported.
• Breast cancer: Estrogen with or without progestogen for the management of menopausal symptoms may be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. The risk of breast cancer in patients who are postmenopausal on hormone therapy may depend upon type of estrogen and/or progestogen, dose, timing of therapy initiation, duration of therapy, route of administration, and individual patient characteristics (AACE/ACE [Cobin 2017]; NAMS 2022). Hormone therapy may be associated with increased breast density (NAMS 2022); an increase in abnormal mammogram findings requiring further evaluation has been reported with estrogen alone or in combination with progestogen therapy. Estrogen use may lead to severe hypercalcemia in patients with breast cancer and bone metastases; discontinue estrogen if hypercalcemia occurs.
• Dementia: Estrogens with or without progestin should not be used to prevent dementia. In the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS), an increased incidence of dementia was observed in women ≥65 years of age taking CE alone or in combination with MPA. Because the WHI memory studies were conducted in patients ≥65 years of age, it is unknown if these findings apply to younger patients who are postmenopausal. However, hormone therapy is not recommended at any age to prevent or treat cognitive decline or dementia (NAMS 2022).
• Endometrial cancer: The use of unopposed estrogen in patients with a uterus is associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer. The addition of a progestogen to estrogen therapy may decrease the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, a precursor to endometrial cancer. Perform adequate diagnostic measures, including endometrial sampling if indicated, to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal patients with undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding. There is no evidence that the use of natural estrogens results in a different endometrial risk profile than synthetic estrogens at equivalent estrogen doses. The risk of endometrial cancer appears to be dose and duration dependent, greatest with use ≥5 years, and may persist following discontinuation of therapy. The use of a progestogen is not generally required when low doses of estrogen are used locally for vaginal atrophy, although long term data (>1 year) supporting this recommendation are lacking (NAMS 2020; NAMS 2022).
• Endometriosis: Estrogens may exacerbate endometriosis. Malignant transformation of residual endometrial implants has been reported posthysterectomy with unopposed estrogen therapy. Consider adding a progestogen in patients with residual endometriosis posthysterectomy.
• Lipid effects: Estrogen compounds are generally associated with lipid effects such as increased HDL-cholesterol and decreased LDL-cholesterol. Triglycerides may also be increased in patients with preexisting hypertriglyceridemia; discontinue if pancreatitis occurs.
• Ovarian cancer: Available information related to the use of menopausal estrogen or estrogen/progestogen therapy and risk of ovarian cancer is inconsistent. If an association is present, the absolute risk is likely rare and may be influenced by duration of therapy (ES [Stuenkel 2015]; NAMS 2022).
• Retinal vascular thrombosis: Estrogens may cause retinal vascular thrombosis; discontinue if migraine, loss of vision, proptosis, diplopia, or other visual disturbances occur; discontinue permanently if papilledema or retinal vascular lesions are observed on examination.
Disease-related concerns:
• Asthma: Use caution in patients with asthma; may exacerbate disease.
• Carbohydrate intolerance: May impair glucose tolerance; use caution in patients with diabetes. Prior to therapy, consider age, cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors in patients previously diagnosed with diabetes (AACE/ACE [Cobin 2017]).
• Cardiovascular disease: Estrogens with or without progestin should not be used to prevent cardiovascular disease. Using data from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) studies, an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and stroke has been reported with CE and an increased risk of DVT, stroke, pulmonary emboli (PE) and myocardial infarction (MI) has been reported with CE with MPA in postmenopausal women 50 to 79 years of age. Additional risk factors include diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), obesity, tobacco use, and/or history of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Manage risk factors appropriately; discontinue use immediately if adverse cardiovascular events occur or are suspected. Due to possible lower risk of thrombotic events, transdermal administration may be preferred for treating vasomotor symptoms of menopause in patients with risk factors for cardiovascular disease (AACE/ACE [Cobin 2017]; ACOG 556 2013; ES [Stuenkel 2015]).
• Diseases exacerbated by fluid retention: Use with caution in patients with diseases which may be exacerbated by fluid retention, including cardiac or renal dysfunction.
• Epilepsy: Use caution with epilepsy; may exacerbate disease.
• Gallbladder disease: Use of postmenopausal estrogen may be associated with an increased risk of gallbladder disease requiring surgery.
• Hepatic dysfunction: Estrogens are poorly metabolized in patients with hepatic dysfunction. Use caution with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with prior estrogen use or pregnancy. Discontinue if jaundice develops or if acute or chronic hepatic disturbances occur.
• Hepatic hemangiomas: Use with caution in patients with hepatic hemangiomas; may exacerbate disease.
• Hereditary angioedema: Exogenous estrogens may exacerbate angioedema symptoms in patients with hereditary angioedema.
• Hypoparathyroidism: Use caution with hypoparathyroidism; estrogen-induced hypocalcemia may occur.
• Migraine: Use caution with migraine; may exacerbate disease.
• Porphyria: Use with caution in patients with porphyria; may exacerbate disease.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus: Use with caution in patients with SLE; may exacerbate disease.
Special populations:
• Surgery: Whenever possible, discontinue estrogens at least 4 to 6 weeks prior to elective surgery associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism or during periods of prolonged immobilization.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Duration of use: Not clearly established; continued use may be appropriate in patients ≥60 years of age or >10 years after menopause with a low risk of cardiovascular disease and breast cancer with persistent vasomotor symptoms after attempted taper/discontinuation of estrogen and trial of alternative therapies. Evaluate routinely for comorbidities and appropriateness of lower doses, nonoral routes of administration (preferred in patients ≥60 years of age), choice of progestogen, and discontinuation of therapy (NAMS 2022).
• Genitourinary syndrome of menopause: Low-dose vaginal estrogen is preferred over systemic therapy for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) in the absence of vasomotor symptoms due to increased efficacy and decreased systemic effects (eg, cardiovascular effects, cancer risk) (Crandall 2018; NAMS 2020; NAMS 2022).
• Osteoporosis use: In patients with premature menopause, hormone therapy to prevent bone loss may be used unless otherwise contraindicated; reassess therapy when the average age of menopause is reached. It is also an appropriate bone-active therapy for patients with vasomotor symptoms who are <60 years of age or within 10 years of menopause onset. Use may be considered for patients at high risk of fractures who are not candidates for other osteoporosis therapies (NAMS 2022).
• Risks vs benefits: When used for the relief of menopausal symptoms or increased risk of bone fracture/loss, the benefit-risk of hormone therapy is most favorable if started in patients who have no contraindications to therapy, are <60 years of age, within 10 years of menopause onset, have a favorable lipid profile, and do not have the factor V Leiden genotype or metabolic syndrome. Consider cardiovascular disease risk factors when evaluating therapy and route of administration (AACE/ACE [Cobin 2017]; NAMS 2022). Estrogens with or without progestin should be used for the shortest duration possible at the lowest effective dose consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual patient. Reevaluate patients as clinically appropriate to determine if treatment is still necessary. Available data related to treatment risks are from Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) studies, which evaluated oral CE 0.625 mg with or without MPA 2.5 mg relative to placebo in women who were postmenopausal. Other combinations and dosage forms of estrogens and progestogens were not studied. Outcomes reported from clinical trials using CE with or without MPA should be assumed to be similar for other doses and other dosage forms of estrogens and progestins until comparable data becomes available.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral:
Premphase: Conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg [14 tablets] and conjugated estrogen 0.625 mg/medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg [14 tablets] [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigotine,indigo carmine), fd&c red #40 (allura red ac dye)]
Prempro: Conjugated estrogens 0.3 mg and medroxyprogesterone acetate 1.5 mg, Conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg and medroxyprogesterone acetate 2.5 mg, Conjugated estrogens 0.45 mg and medroxyprogesterone acetate 1.5 mg
Prempro: Conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg and medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigotine,indigo carmine)]
No
Tablets (Premphase Oral)
0.625-5 mg (per each): $10.61
Tablets (Prempro Oral)
0.3-1.5 mg (per each): $10.61
0.45-1.5 mg (per each): $10.61
0.625-2.5 mg (per each): $10.61
0.625-5 mg (per each): $10.61
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Administer at the same time each day.
Hazardous agent (NIOSH 2024 [table 1]).
Use appropriate precautions for receiving, handling, storage, preparation, dispensing, transporting, administration, and disposal. Follow NIOSH and USP 800 recommendations and institution-specific policies/procedures for appropriate containment strategy (NIOSH 2023; NIOSH 2024; USP-NF 2020).
Note: Facilities may perform risk assessment of some hazardous drugs to determine if appropriate for alternative handling and containment strategies (USP-NF 2020). Refer to institution-specific handling policies/procedures.
Osteoporosis prevention, postmenopausal: Prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Limitations of use: For use only in patients at significant risk of postmenopausal osteoporosis; consider use of nonestrogen medications.
Vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause: Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause.
Vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause: Treatment of moderate to severe vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause.
Limitations of use: When used solely for the treatment of vulvar and vaginal atrophy (also referred to as genitourinary syndrome of menopause [NAMS 2020]), consider topical vaginal products.
Guideline recommendations: Due to safety considerations, when a progesterone is needed, use of micronized progesterone is preferred over medroxyprogesterone acetate (AACE/ACE [Cobin 2017]).
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes this medication among its list of drugs (contraindicated in pregnancy) which have a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error (High-Alert Medications in Community/Ambulatory Care Settings).
Beers Criteria: Estrogens (oral or topical patch products only), with or without progestins, are identified in the Beers Criteria as potentially inappropriate medications to be avoided in postmenopausal patients ≥65 years of age (independent of diagnosis or condition) due to their carcinogenic potential (breast and endometrium) and lack of cardioprotection or cognitive protection. Starting therapy in postmenopausal patients ≥60 years of age has greater risks (eg, heart disease, stroke, blood clots, dementia) than benefits. In postmenopausal patients already taking systemic estrogens, consider deprescribing (Beers Criteria [AGS 2023]).
Refer to individual components.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Adalimumab: May decrease serum concentration of CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Ajmaline: Estrogen Derivatives may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ajmaline. Specifically, the risk for cholestasis may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Anastrozole: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Anastrozole. Risk X: Avoid
Anthrax Immune Globulin (Human): Estrogen Derivatives may increase thrombogenic effects of Anthrax Immune Globulin (Human). Risk C: Monitor
Antidiabetic Agents: Hyperglycemia-Associated Agents may decrease therapeutic effects of Antidiabetic Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Aprepitant: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration with aprepitant, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing aprepitant to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Asparaginase Products: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase thrombogenic effects of Asparaginase Products. Management: Consider discontinuing hormonal contraceptives and using an alternative contraceptive method in patients treated with asparaginase products. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Atazanavir: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, atazanavir/ritonavir may decrease concentrations of estrogens. Atazanavir may increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, atazanavir alone may increase concentrations of estrogens and atazanavir alone or boosted may increase concentrations of progestins. Management: Dose adjustment of hormonal contraceptives or use of alternative or additional nonhormonal contraceptive may be needed when combined with atazanavir. See full interact monograph for details. Atazanavir/cobicistat with drospirenone is contraindicated. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Bimekizumab: May decrease serum concentration of CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Brigatinib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Use a non-hormonal contraceptive during brigatinib use and for at least 4 months after the last brigatinib dose. Males with partners of reproductive potential should use contraception during treatment with brigatinib and for 3 months after brigatinib use. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
C1 Inhibitors: Estrogen Derivatives may increase thrombogenic effects of C1 Inhibitors. Risk C: Monitor
Carfilzomib: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase thrombogenic effects of Carfilzomib. Management: Consider alternative, non-hormonal methods of contraception in patients requiring therapy with carfilzomib, especially patients using carfilzomib in combination with dexamethasone, lenalidomide plus dexamethasone, or daratumumab plus dexamethasone. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Chenodiol: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Chenodiol. Risk C: Monitor
Chlorprothixene: Estrogen Derivatives may increase adverse/toxic effects of Chlorprothixene. Estrogen Derivatives may increase therapeutic effects of Chlorprothixene. Risk C: Monitor
Chlorprothixene: Progestins may increase therapeutic effects of Chlorprothixene. Progestins may increase adverse/toxic effects of Chlorprothixene. Risk C: Monitor
Choline C 11: Antiandrogens may decrease therapeutic effects of Choline C 11. Risk C: Monitor
Clofazimine: May increase serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
CloZAPine: CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of CloZAPine. Risk C: Monitor
Cobicistat: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, cobicistat may decrease serum concentrations of estrogens. Cobicistat may increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, cobicistat may increase serum concentrations of progestins. Management: Use alternative or additional nonhormonal forms of contraception when estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptives are combined with cobicistat. Progestin-only contraceptives can be used without back up, but monitor for progestin toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Colchicine: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk C: Monitor
Corticosteroids (Systemic): Estrogen Derivatives may increase serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Cosyntropin: Coadministration of Estrogen Derivatives and Cosyntropin may alter diagnostic results. Management: Discontinue estrogen containing drugs 4 to 6 weeks prior to cosyntropin (ACTH) testing. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing a moderate CYP3A4 inducer to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing a strong CYP3A4 inducer to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
CYP3A4 Inducers (Weak): May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing a weak CYP3A4 inducer to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentration of Estrogen Derivatives. Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk C: Monitor
Dantrolene: Estrogen Derivatives may increase hepatotoxic effects of Dantrolene. Risk C: Monitor
Deferasirox: May decrease serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Efavirenz: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Use a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 12 weeks after stopping efavirenz to ensure contraceptive reliability. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate does not appear to participate in this interaction. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Elafibranor: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk X: Avoid
Elagolix: Hormonal Contraceptives may decrease therapeutic effects of Elagolix. Specifically, estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptives may diminish the therapeutic effects of elagolix. Elagolix may decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, concentrations of progestins may be decreased with elagolix therapy. Elagolix may increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, concentrations of ethinyl estradiol may be increased with elagolix therapy. Management: Use an alternative, nonhormonal contraceptive during treatment with elagolix and for at least 28 days following discontinuation of elagolix treatment. Use of elagolix 200 mg twice daily with an estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptive is not recommended Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Elexacaftor, Tezacaftor, and Ivacaftor: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase adverse/toxic effects of Elexacaftor, Tezacaftor, and Ivacaftor. Specifically, the risk for rash may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Encorafenib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk X: Avoid
Etravirine: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, progestin concentrations may decrease. Etravirine may increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, estrogen concentrations may increase. Risk C: Monitor
Exemestane: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Exemestane. Risk X: Avoid
Exenatide: Hormonal Contraceptives may decrease therapeutic effects of Exenatide. Exenatide may decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Administer oral hormonal contraceptives at least one hour prior to exenatide. Monitor blood glucose more frequently when patients treated with exenatide initiate therapy with a hormonal contraceptive. Increases in exenatide doses may be needed. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Felbamate: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing felbamate to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Fezolinetant: CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Fezolinetant. Risk X: Avoid
Flibanserin: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase serum concentration of Flibanserin. Risk C: Monitor
Flotufolastat F18: Coadministration of Antiandrogens and Flotufolastat F18 may alter diagnostic results. Management: Therapies targeting the androgen pathway may result in changes in the uptake of flotufolastat F18 in prostate cancer. The impact of these therapies on the performance of flotufolastat F18 is unknown; consider use of alternative agents. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Fosaprepitant: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration with fosaprepitant, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing fosaprepitant to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Fusidic Acid (Systemic): May increase serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Management: Consider avoiding this combination if possible. If required, monitor patients closely for increased adverse effects of the CYP3A4 substrate. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Gallium Ga 68 PSMA-11: Antiandrogens may decrease therapeutic effects of Gallium Ga 68 PSMA-11. Management: Therapies targeting the androgen pathway may result in changes in the uptake of gallium Ga 68 PSMA-11 (gozetotide) in prostate cancer. The impact on the performance of gallium Ga 68 PSMA-11 (gozetotide) is unknown; consider use of alternative agents. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Griseofulvin: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing griseofulvin to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Growth Hormone Analogs: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Growth Hormone Analogs. Management: Initiate somapacitan at 2 mg once weekly in patients receiving oral estrogens. Monitor for reduced efficacy of growth hormone analogs; increased doses may be required. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Hemin: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Hemin. Risk X: Avoid
Hyaluronidase: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Hyaluronidase. Risk C: Monitor
Hydrocortisone (Systemic): Estrogen Derivatives may increase serum concentration of Hydrocortisone (Systemic). Estrogen Derivatives may decrease serum concentration of Hydrocortisone (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Immune Globulin: Estrogen Derivatives may increase thrombogenic effects of Immune Globulin. Management: Use the lowest dose of immune globulin and minimum infusion rate practicable during coadministration with estrogen derivatives. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide: Coadministration of Antiandrogens and Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide may alter diagnostic results. Risk X: Avoid
Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide: Coadministration of Estrogen Derivatives and Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide may alter diagnostic results. Risk X: Avoid
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Inhibiting Therapies: May decrease serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Ivosidenib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Consider alternative methods of contraception (ie, non-hormonal) in patients receiving ivosidenib. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Ixazomib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. More specifically, use of ixazomib with dexamethasone may decrease the serum concentrations of hormonal contraceptives. Management: Patients of reproductive potential should use a non-hormonal contraceptive method during treatment with ixazomib and for at least 90 days after the last ixazomib dose. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
LamoTRIgine: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease serum concentration of LamoTRIgine. Risk C: Monitor
Lenalidomide: Estrogen Derivatives may increase thrombogenic effects of Lenalidomide. Risk C: Monitor
Levomethadone: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase serum concentration of Levomethadone. Risk C: Monitor
Lixisenatide: Hormonal Contraceptives may decrease therapeutic effects of Lixisenatide. Lixisenatide may decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Administer oral hormonal contraceptives 1 hour before or at least 11 hours after administration of lixisenatide. Additionally, monitor blood glucose more frequently when patients treated with lixisenatide initiate therapy with a hormonal contraceptive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Mavacamten: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Use with ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone is permitted. With other hormonal contraceptives, use a back-up (eg, condoms) or alternative (eg, IUD) method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 4 months after stopping mavacamten. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Melatonin: Estrogen Derivatives may increase serum concentration of Melatonin. Risk C: Monitor
MetyraPONE: Coadministration of Estrogen Derivatives and MetyraPONE may alter diagnostic results. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of the metyrapone test in patients taking estrogen derivatives. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
MetyraPONE: Coadministration of Progestins and MetyraPONE may alter diagnostic results. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of the metyrapone test in patients taking progestins. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
MiFEPRIStone: May decrease therapeutic effects of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Nonhormonal contraception should be used during, and for 4 weeks following, mifepristone treatment for hyperglycemia due to Cushing syndrome. If used for pregnancy termination, hormonal contraceptives can be used after pregnancy expulsion is confirmed. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Mirikizumab: May decrease serum concentration of CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Mitotane: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Effective nonhormonal contraception is recommended for those of reproductive potential during treatment with mitotane as well as after discontinuation of mitotane for as long as mitotane plasma levels are detectable. Risk X: Avoid
Mivacurium: Estrogen Derivatives may increase serum concentration of Mivacurium. Risk C: Monitor
Mobocertinib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk X: Avoid
Mycophenolate: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Patients of childbearing potential who are taking hormonal contraceptives should use an additional form of barrier contraception during treatment with mycophenolate and for 6 weeks after mycophenolate discontinuation. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Nemolizumab: May decrease serum concentration of CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir may decrease concentrations of estrogens. Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir may increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir may increase concentrations of progestins. Management: Use additional nonhormonal forms of contraception (back-up method) when estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptives are combined with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir. Progestin-only contraceptives can be used without back-up, but monitor for progestin toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (COX-2 Selective): May increase thrombogenic effects of Estrogen Derivatives. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (COX-2 Selective) may increase serum concentration of Estrogen Derivatives. Risk C: Monitor
Octreotide: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Women should use an alternative non-hormonal method of contraception or a back-up method when octreotide is combined with hormonal contraceptives. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Olutasidenib: May decrease serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Management: Avoid use of olutasidenib with sensitive or narrow therapeutic index CYP3A4 substrates when possible. If concurrent use with olutasidenib is unavoidable, monitor closely for evidence of decreased concentrations of the CYP3A4 substrates. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Omaveloxolone: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk X: Avoid
Ospemifene: Estrogen Derivatives may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ospemifene. Risk X: Avoid
OXcarbazepine: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing oxcarbazepine to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Pacritinib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Avoid use of hormonal contraceptives with pacritinib, except for intrauterine systems containing levonorgestrel. If contraception is needed, use a nonhormonal contraceptive or an intrauterine system for at least 30 days after the last dose of pacritinib. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Pegloticase: May decrease therapeutic effects of PEGylated Drug Products. Risk C: Monitor
Pegvaliase: MedroxyPROGESTERone may increase adverse/toxic effects of Pegvaliase. Specifically, the risk of anaphylaxis or hypersensitivity reactions may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Perampanel: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Patients should use an alternative, nonhormonal-based form of contraception during the concurrent use of perampanel and for 1 month after discontinuing perampanel. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Pexidartinib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk X: Avoid
Piflufolastat F18: Coadministration of Antiandrogens and Piflufolastat F18 may alter diagnostic results. Management: Therapies targeting the androgen pathway may result in changes in the uptake of piflufolastat F18 in prostate cancer. The impact of these therapies on the performance of piflufolastat F18 is unknown; consider use of alternative agents. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Pitolisant: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Patients using hormonal contraception should be advised to use an alternative non-hormonal contraceptive method during treatment with pitolisant and for at least 21 days after discontinuation of pitolisant treatment. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Pomalidomide: Estrogen Derivatives may increase thrombogenic effects of Pomalidomide. Risk C: Monitor
Protease Inhibitors: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, protease inhibitors may decrease concentrations of estrogens. Protease Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Specifically, protease inhibitors may increase concentrations of progestins. Management: Use alternative or additional nonhormonal forms of contraception when estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptives are combined with protease inhibitors. Progestin-only contraceptives can be used without back up, but monitor for progestin toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Raloxifene: Estrogen Derivatives may increase adverse/toxic effects of Raloxifene. Risk X: Avoid
Repotrectinib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk X: Avoid
ROPINIRole: Estrogen Derivatives may increase serum concentration of ROPINIRole. Risk C: Monitor
Succinylcholine: Estrogen Derivatives may increase serum concentration of Succinylcholine. Risk C: Monitor
Sugammadex: May decrease therapeutic effects of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Patients receiving any hormonal contraceptive (oral or non-oral) should use an additional, nonhormonal contraceptive method during and for 7 days following sugammadex treatment. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Suzetrigine: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Patients should use a nonhormonal contraceptive, an intrauterine system, or ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone or levonorgestrel for the duration of treatment with suzetrigine and for 28 days after stopping suzetrigine. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Tacrolimus (Systemic): Estrogen Derivatives may increase serum concentration of Tacrolimus (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Taurursodiol: May decrease serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk X: Avoid
Tazemetostat: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Individuals of childbearing potential should use a non-hormonal contraceptive method during treatment with tazemetostat and for 6 months after. Males with partners of childbearing potential should use contraception during treatment and for 3 months after. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Product labeling recommends that patients taking hormonal contraceptives should use an additional, non-hormonal contraceptive or reliable barrier method during treatment with THC/CBD buccal spray. Other forms of THC and CBD do not contain this warning. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Thalidomide: Estrogen Derivatives may increase thrombogenic effects of Thalidomide. Risk C: Monitor
Thalidomide: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase thrombogenic effects of Thalidomide. Risk C: Monitor
Theophylline Derivatives: CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Risk C: Monitor
Thyroid Products: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Thyroid Products. Risk C: Monitor
Tirzepatide: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Patients using oral hormonal contraceptives should switch to a non-oral contraceptive method, or add a barrier method of contraception, for 4 weeks after initiation of tirzepatide and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation of tirzepatide. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
TiZANidine: CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of TiZANidine. Management: Avoid the use of tizanidine with weak CYP1A2 inhibitors when possible. If combined, monitor closely for increased tizanidine toxicities (eg, hypotension, bradycardia, drowsiness). Tizanidine dose reduction or discontinuation may be necessary. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Topiramate: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing topiramate to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Tovorafenib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Avoid concurrent use when possible. If combined use is unavoidable, use of an additional nonhormonal method of contraception is recommended during combined use and for 28 days after stopping tovorafenib. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Tranexamic Acid: Estrogen Derivatives may increase thrombogenic effects of Tranexamic Acid. Risk X: Avoid
Tranexamic Acid: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase thrombogenic effects of Tranexamic Acid. Risk X: Avoid
Ulipristal: May decrease therapeutic effects of Progestins. Progestins may decrease therapeutic effects of Ulipristal. Risk X: Avoid
Ursodiol: Estrogen Derivatives may decrease therapeutic effects of Ursodiol. Risk C: Monitor
Ustekinumab: May decrease serum concentration of CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Vaborbactam: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Advise patients to use an alternative method of contraception or a back-up method during coadministration, and to continue back-up contraception for 28 days after discontinuing meropenem/vaborbactam to ensure contraceptive reliability. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Vedolizumab: May decrease serum concentration of CYP Substrates (Narrow Therapeutic Index/Sensitive with Inducers). Risk C: Monitor
Vitamin K Antagonists: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase serum concentration of Vitamin K Antagonists. Hormonal Contraceptives may decrease serum concentration of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor
Vorasidenib: May decrease serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Management: Avoid combined use when possible, but if this combination cannot be avoided, use of an alternative, nonhormonal means of contraception is recommended during treatment with vorasidenib and for 3 months after the last dose. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Voriconazole: Hormonal Contraceptives may increase serum concentration of Voriconazole. Voriconazole may increase serum concentration of Hormonal Contraceptives. Risk C: Monitor
Folic acid absorption may be decreased.
Use is contraindicated in patients who are pregnant.
In general, the use of estrogen and progestogen as in combination hormonal contraceptives have not been associated with teratogenic effects when inadvertently taken early in pregnancy.
Estrogens and progestogens are present in breast milk.
Estrogens have been shown to decrease the quantity and quality of human milk. The manufacturer recommends that caution be used if administered to patients who are breastfeeding.
Administration with food decreases nausea, administer with food. Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake when used for the prevention of osteoporosis.
Prior to therapy, baseline risk for breast cancer and CVD. During therapy, age appropriate breast and pelvic exams; blood pressure; unscheduled bleeding lasting >6 months for endometrial pathology (sooner in patients who are obese, diabetic, or have a history of endometrial cancer); serum triglycerides (2 weeks after starting therapy in patients with baseline level >200 mg/dL); TSH (6 to 12 weeks after starting oral therapy in patients taking thyroid replacement) (ES [Stuenkel 2015]).
Menopausal symptoms: Efficacy beginning 1 to 3 months after starting therapy, then every 6 to 12 months as appropriate. Evaluate duration of treatment at least annually (ES [Stuenkel 2015]).
Note: Monitoring of FSH and serum estradiol is not useful when managing vasomotor symptoms or genitourinary symptoms of menopause.
Osteoporosis prevention: Bone density measurement.
See individual agents.
See individual agents.
