Key takeaways
Premarin vaginal cream (conjugated estrogens) and Climara (estradiol patch) are both estrogen replacement medications used to treat symptoms of menopause. However, they differ in several ways. Premarin is a vaginal cream applied directly to the vagina, while Climara is a transdermal patch applied to the skin. Premarin is specifically used for vaginal symptoms, whereas Climara also treats hot flashes and helps prevent osteoporosis. Premarin is only available as a branded medication, while Climara also comes in a lower-cost generic version. Common side effects of Premarin include headache and pelvic pain, while Climara may cause breast pain and headaches. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects like blood clots and cancer, but may have fewer side effrects than oral estrogen replacement medications. Climara is applied once a week, whereas Premarin is applied in cycles or twice-weekly.
