Key takeaways
Prempro (conjugated estrogens/medroxyprogesterone acetate) and Estring (estradiol) are both used to treat symptoms of menopause, but they have some key differences. Prempro is an oral medication that combines estrogen and progestin. It treats hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Estring, on the other hand, is a vaginal ring that only contains estrogen and is specifically for vaginal dryness and burning. Unlike Prempro, Estring doesn't treat hot flashes or night sweats. Prempro requires daily dosing, while Estring is replaced every three months, potentially making it more convenient. Both medications carry a higher risk of serious side effects, including certain cancers, blood clots, and stroke. If you have a uterus, you need to take a progestin with Estring to lower the risk of uterine cancer, while Prempro already includes a progestin. Both medications are brand-name only and can be expensive.
