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Effects of Premarin on the Muscles & the Brain

Premarin is a brand name for a prescription conjugated estrogen supplement. Despite its use in the treatment of vaginal atrophy, menopausal symptoms and certain breast and prostate cancers, Premarin poses a risk of side effects, some of which affect the muscles and brain.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • The most significant effect of Premarin upon the brain is depression, while the most common effect upon the muscles is body pain originating from aching muscles. These symptoms occur in as many as 20 percent of users, according to U.S. Food and Drug Administration clinical trials.

    Other Side Effects

    • Other possible side effects of Premarin include pain in the abdominal or back muscles, leg cramps, dizziness, insomnia, nervousness and irritability.

    Risk

    • Muscular and brain side effects of Premarin are more prevalent in people over the age of 65, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Warning

    • The greatest risk of Premarin is that of dementia, which is known to develop in some patients who receive treatment with the drug. Premarin also has the potential to cause strokes, which can lead to muscle paralysis and the death of brain cells.

    Considerations

    • If you have epilepsy or migraine headaches, it may not be safe for you to take Premarin due to its effects upon the brain, the Mayo Clinic warns.

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