Key takeaways
Premarin vaginal cream (conjugated estrogens) and Prempro (conjugated estrogens/medroxyprogesterone) are both used to treat menopausal symptoms, but they have some key differences. Premarin vaginal cream is applied directly into the vagina and is specifically used to relieve vaginal dryness and pain during sex caused by menopause. In contrast, Prempro is an oral medication that treats vaginal symptoms, hot flashes, and night sweats and helps prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis. Prempro contains both estrogen and progestin, which helps protect the uterus, while Premarin only contains estrogen. Prempro is taken once daily, whereas Premarin vaginal cream can be applied in cycles or twice a week. Both medications are only available as brand name medications and carry risks of serious side effects like cancer and blood clots, especially with long-term use, so it's important to use them for the shortest time necessary.
