Hot flashes are most often associated with the menopause or perimenopause. The symptoms are described as the gradual or sudden onset of extreme heat accompanied by sweating, rapid heartbeat and chills. The skin feels flush, the face becomes visibly red and lightheadedness may occur. The episodes can last anywhere from two to 30 minutes, and the intensity varies from one individual to another and from one episode to the next.
Causes of Hot Flashes
The exact etiology of hot flashes is unknown, but the decline in estrogen production during menopause appears to affect the hypothalamus in such a way that it detects elevated heat in the body. This triggers the release of hormones to regulate body temperature, leading to increased heart rate and dilation of blood vessels.
Genetics, ethnicity and lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive weight may play a role in the intensity of the symptoms. In some women, hot flashes can become unbearable, causing sleep disruption, loss of concentration and depression.
Premarin Therapy for Hot Flashes
Premarin is estrogen-based medicine used to treat vasomotor symptoms, the clinical name for hot flashes. It is prescription medication for women diagnosed with estrogen deficiency. This conjugated estrogen formulation is made with different naturally derived estrogen salts, including sodium estrone sulphate and sodium equilin sulfate.
Premarin can reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes. It is prescribed for women experiencing reduced estrogen levels due to removal of ovaries or the onset of menopause. It may also be helpful in managing other menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy.
Is Premarin Safe to Use?
Premarin is effective in controlling very severe hot flashes, but it should be used at the lowest effective dose, and therapy should be for a limited period to minimize the risks of developing secondary conditions such as endometrial issues and heart disease.
In some women, hot flashes subside with age, but a small fraction of post-menopausal women others may continue to experience these episodes. Short-term therapy with Premarin is meant to manage the symptoms at their peak. Suspending hormone therapy with Premarin could mean recurrence of hot flashes.
Some attention should also be given to controlling the external triggers of hot flashes. Smoking, alcohol, caffeine and spicy food intake may increase the likelihood of vasomotor symptoms.
Premarin is effective in controlling hot flashes, but therapy must be monitored by a healthcare professional. It should also be used in conjunction with a plan to manage other triggers and risk factors for hot flashes.
