Key takeaways
Premarin (conjugated estrogens) and Estring (estradiol) are both estrogen replacement therapies, but they have different uses and forms. Premarin is an oral tablet that treats a variety of conditions, including menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness, low estrogen levels due to other conditions, and certain cancers in advanced stages. It can also be taken to prevent osteoporosis. Estring, on the other hand, is a vaginal ring specifically taken for relieving vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation due to menopause. You need to replace Estring every three months, while Premarin can be taken daily or in cycles. Premarin can cause more systemic side effects, such as headaches, stomach pain and nausea, whereas Estring mainly affects the vaginal area and can cause local side effects like vaginal discharge and irritation. Both medications require a prescription and are only available as brand-name products.
