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Natural Alternative for Premarin Hormone Replacement

Premarin is used to treat symptoms of menopause. The manufacturer, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, issued a letter to prescribers in August of 2002 that is posted on the Food and Drug Administration's website. The letter recommends the shortest effective duration of treatment with Premarin "because of the potential increased risks of cardiovascular events, breast cancer and venous thromboembolic events. . ." Some patients seek alternatives to Premarin therapy to avoid potential risk.

  1. Black Cohosh

    • The root of the black cohosh plant is an herb that has been used since the 19th century for a variety of ailments in both men and women, and has recently become popular as a remedy for hot flashes associated with menopause. Black cohosh as an alternative to Premarin for symptom relief is available in grocery, drug and discount stores. It is available as a liquid, pill or tea. It is not marketed as a medication and therefore is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Side effects are few but can include headaches, stomach upset and a heavy feeling in the legs. An evaluation of reports of fatal liver toxicity in a woman using black cohosh, by the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Klinikum Hanau, Teaching Hospital of the Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University Frankfurt/Main, Hanau, Germany, concludes that "the present study shows little, if any, hepatotoxic risks by the use of black cohosh in the analyzed cases."

    Dietary Support

    • For some women, alternatives to taking Premarin for management of menopausal symptoms can include getting 1200 mg to 1500 mg of calcium and 800 International Units of Vitamin D daily. Diet should also include fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Sugar and saturated fat should be kept to a minimum. Dietary triggers for hot flashes can include spicy foods, hot drinks and alcohol, so limiting these may help. Other women can manage with merely the addition of a multivitamin.

    Lifestyle

    • Some simple tactics may help serve as alternatives to taking Premarin. If hot flashes are the problem, dressing in layers so that some can be removed as needed may work. Adequate exercise regulates mood and keeps hearts healthy as well as decreases the risk of osteoporosis. Pelvic floor muscle exercises can help decrease urinary symptoms like incontinence. Staying sexually active is helpful for vaginal and urinary symptoms like dryness and loss of tone. Commercial lubricants can also be useful. Quitting smoking is difficult but always a good idea; it can also minimize hot flashes. According to the Mayo Clinic, practicing yoga is an effective remedy for hot flashes as well.

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