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What should I discuss with my health care provider before using esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone?

Esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone should not be used to prevent heart disease, stroke, or dementia, because this medication may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

You should not take esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone if you have:

• liver disease;
• a recent history of heart attack, stroke or circulation problems;
• abnormal vaginal bleeding that a doctor has not checked;
• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer; or
• if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

To make sure you can safely take esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• high blood pressure, heart disease, or coronary artery disease;
• high cholesterol or triglycerides;
• kidney disease;
• asthma;
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• migraines;
• endometriosis;
• diabetes;
• lupus;
• depression;
• gallbladder disease;
• if you smoke; or
• if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy).

Esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone increases your risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer of the uterus. Taking progestins while using esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone may lower this risk. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone.

Long-term esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone treatment may increase your risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone long-term. Your doctor should check your progress every 3 to 6 months to determine whether you should continue this treatment.

FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.

Esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. This medication may also slow breast milk production. Do not use if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

This medication is usually taken in a cycle of 3 weeks on and 1 week off. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone.

If you need medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are taking esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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