Androgens and Estrogens (Systemic)
Precautions While Using This MedicineIt is very important that your doctor check your progress at
regular visits to make sure this medicine does not cause unwanted effects
. These visits will usually be every 6 to 12 months, but many doctors
require them more often.
It is not yet known whether the use of estrogen increases the risk of breast
cancer in women. Therefore, it is very important that you regularly check
your breasts for any unusual lumps or discharge. You should also have a mammogram
(x-ray picture of the breasts) done if your doctor recommends it.
In some patients using estrogens, tenderness, swelling, or bleeding of
the gums may occur. Brushing and flossing your teeth carefully and regularly
and massaging your gums may help prevent this. See your dentist regularly
to have your teeth cleaned. Check with your medical doctor or dentist if you
have any questions about how to take care of your teeth and gums, or if you
notice any tenderness, swelling, or bleeding of your gums.
For diabetic patients:
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This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you notice a change
in the results of your blood or urine sugar tests or if you have any questions,
check with your doctor.
If you think that you may have become pregnant, check
with your doctor immediately
. Continued use of this medicine during
pregnancy may cause birth defects or future health problems in the child.
In studies with oral contraceptives (birth control pills) containing estrogens,
cigarette smoking during the use of estrogens was shown to cause an increased
risk of serious side effects affecting the heart or blood circulation, such
as dangerous blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. The risk increased as the
amount of smoking and the age of the smoker increased. Women aged 35 and over
were at greatest risk when they smoked while using oral contraceptives containing
estrogens. It is not known if this risk exists with the use of androgens and
estrogens for symptoms of menopause. However, smoking may make estrogens less
effective.
Do not give this medicine to anyone else. Your doctor has prescribed it
specifically for you after studying your health record and the results of
your physical examination. Androgens and estrogens may be dangerous for some
people because of differences in their health and body chemistry.
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