Conjugated estrogens are a mixture of estrogen hormones. Estrogen is a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries that is necessary for many processes in the body.

Medroxyprogesterone is also a female hormone, usually called "progesterone." It is important for the regulation of ovulation and menstruation.

Together, conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone are used to treat the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, and vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation, and to prevent thinning of the bones (osteoporosis).

Conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone should not be used to prevent heart disease or dementia, because this medication may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

Conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Do not use this medication if you have any of the following conditions: a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot (especially in your lung or your lower body), liver disease, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer.

This medication can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone if you are pregnant.

Long-term treatment with conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone may increase your risk of breast cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using this medication long term, especially if you smoke or are overweight. Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months) to determine whether you should continue this treatment.

Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone.

Conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone should not be used to prevent heart disease or dementia, because this medication may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

Do not use this medication if you have:

• a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot (especially in your lung or your lower body);

• abnormal vaginal bleeding that a doctor has not checked;

• liver disease; or

• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests:

• high blood pressure, heart disease, or circulation problems;

• a personal or family history of stroke;

• endometriosis;

• liver or kidney disease;

• asthma;

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

• migraines;

• diabetes;

• underactive thyroid;

• high cholesterol or triglycerides;

• high or low levels of calcium in your blood;

• porphyria;

• systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE);

• gallbladder disease; or

• if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy).

Conjugated estrogens increase your risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer of the uterus. Taking progestins while using conjugated estrogens 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 conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone.

Long-term conjugated estrogens treatment may increase your risk of stroke or blood clots. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using conjugated estrogens long term, especially if you smoke or are overweight. 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 conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone 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.

Conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone 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.

Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.