Advice on HRT

[Kemdou]

I'm new to HRT. I've been given Femoston-conti and asked to take one tablet every day but it comes in plaques of 28 tablets. Do I have to stop for a few days between two plaques or carry on non-stop?

[MrsNails]

I think you maybe on the wrong Forum - we have PMR & GCA so not really able to help.

However, your Pharmacist will be able to advise you

Kind Regards

MrsN

[Kemdou in reply to MrsNails]

ok thanks

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Many medications come in 28 tablet packs. The data sheet says

4.2 Posology and method of administration

Femoston-conti 0.5 mg/2.5 mg is a continuous combined HRT for oral use.

The oestrogen and the progestogen are given every day without interruption.

The dosage is one tablet per day for a 28 day cycle.

Femoston-conti 0.5 mg/2.5 mg should be taken continuously without a break between packs.

For initiation and continuation of treatment of postmenopausal symptoms, the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration (see also section 4.4) should be used.

Continuous combined treatment may be started with Femoston-conti 0.5 mg/2.5 mg depending on the time since menopause and severity of symptoms. Women experiencing a natural menopause should commence treatment with Femoston-conti 0.5 mg/2.5 mg not earlier than at least 12 months after their last natural menstrual bleed. For surgically induced menopause, treatment may start immediately.

Depending on the clinical response, the dosage can subsequently be adjusted.

The patient information leaflet should be in the pack with the tablets and if you look the tablets should be marked with the day of the week - that is why it comes as 28 tablets and not 30. It will have similar information to this:

medicines.org.uk/emc/files/...

which says

"Taking this medicine

• Swallow the tablet with water.

• You can take your tablet with or without food

• Try to take your tablet at the same time each day. This will make sure that there is a constant amount of the product in your body. This will also help you remember to take your tablets.

• Take one tablet every day, without a break between packs. The blisters are marked with the days of the week. This makes it easier for you to remember when to take your tablets.

If you are still confused, speak to the pharmacist - not counter staff, the duty pharmacist.

[Kemdou in reply to PMRpro]

Really appreciate all your explanation, very clear and so prompt. Many thanks!

[Kemdou in reply to PMRpro]

By the way, would you know if it matters if I take it at the same time as other tablets (anti-epilepsy ones) just before going to bed?

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Kemdou]

That I don't know - basic physiology would suggest no but apparently there can be interactions and it depends on the patient, the HRT and the epilepsy medication. However - that really is something your doctors should have thought about - I assume they are aware of your entire medical history - and you will have to ask a pharmacist and/or your doctor. Sometimes taking the medications as far apart as possible is enough or it may only be a short time difference you need but you need an expert on that. Preferably your epilepsy specialist I'd have thought.

[Kemdou in reply to PMRpro]

They all know everything but no one said anything. I guess I'd better ask the question precisely to each of them and see what they say. Thanks again for all your advice, that's what I needed

👍😀

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Kemdou]

Good - sorry to have made it complicated. I think the main problem is that extra oestrogen (from the HRT) CAN excite the brain cells and COULD increase epileptic activity. Now this could well be theoretical and nothing would happen but I'd hate to think your xmas was spoiled by having a fit as a result. I'd definitely wait until after New Year to start something new - doesn't matter what it is, the side effects at first can be unnerving at first and I wouldn't try anything just now unless I needed it urgently like for a heart condition.

[Lookingforideas]

I’m a bit late to the party but I’m on that same HRT. I take it every morning the minute I get up - I have a couple If friends who table it last thing at night. No need for food.