Is There a Generic for Premarin Cream?

Premarin is a drug that serves to replace insufficient estrogen, particularly in women facing menopause. It comes in a tablet or cream. The cream is used specifically to treat vaginal dryness, which can cause localized discomfort and painful sexual intercourse in postmenopausal woman. The chemical (generic) name for Premarin cream is conjugated estrogens vaginal cream; however, a specific marketed generic version of Premarin is not available, according to MedicineNet.com.

Conjugated estrogens, or estrogen salts, represent a variety of estrogens from natural derivatives. These have been mixed in such a way as to mimic the estrogens in pregnant-horse urine. Estrogens, even those applied locally via cream, have systemic bodily effects. They encourage female sexual development and sustain related characteristics, including the growth of pubic and underarm hair. What's more, estrogens are responsible for cervical secretions and the buildup of the endometrium (the uterine lining).

The estrogen-like chemicals that make up conjugated estrogens include 17 alpha-dihydroequilin, equilin and estrone, to name a few. MedicineNet.com says that the specific makeup of this mix of estrogens is unknown.

Conjugated estrogens can easily make their way into the bloodstream via the vaginal wall when applied in the form of a cream. Of course, how much is absorbed depends on how often it is applied and the amount that is used. Side effects are more likely at greater doses.

MedicineNet.com reports that conjugated estrogens gained FDA approval for the first time as far back as 1938. The tablet version (oral), like the estrogen cream, helps rebuild the lining of the vagina and restore its secretions, thereby reversing the atrophy that can come with menopause.

For most all vaginal medications, bedtime administration is best. Before filling the cream applicator, be sure to wash your hands, then lie on your back with your knees in the bent position. Introduce the applicator into the vagina and push the plunger with your thumb. Be sure to clean the applicator after each use, along with your hands. You can distribute some of the cream to the folds your vagina if you have any sensation of irritation there.

Frequent systemic side effects tend to be breast tenderness, cessation of periods or longer periods, spotting, and a rise or decrease in sexual desire. Water retention is not uncommon. Brown patches on the skin can appear. Women taking conjugated estrogens are at increased risk for blood clots in the lungs or legs. Endometrial cancer is a risk because the estrogens serve to fortify the lining of the uterus.