Zumenon

Zumenon is an oestrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT) tablet containing estradiol, a form of oestrogen that is bio-identical to the hormone produced naturally by the ovaries.

It is prescribed for the relief of menopausal symptoms caused by oestrogen deficiency, including hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and urogenital atrophy.

It is also used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women at increased risk of fractures who cannot tolerate other osteoporosis treatments.

Estradiol replaces the declining oestrogen that occurs during the menopausal transition and provides effective relief from vasomotor and atrophic symptoms.

In women who have had a hysterectomy, Zumenon can be taken as a standalone preparation.

Women with an intact uterus must take a progestogen alongside Zumenon for at least 12 to 14 days per cycle to protect the endometrium from hyperplasia.

Zumenon is available in 1 mg and 2 mg strengths. The lowest effective dose should be used, and treatment duration should be the minimum necessary to achieve symptom control.

Regular medical review is essential.

Take one tablet daily at the same time each day, with or without food. Swallow whole with water. Treatment is continuous without a break between packs.

Women with an intact uterus must also take a progestogen as prescribed (either sequentially for 12 to 14 days per cycle or continuously) to protect the endometrium.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next one. Do not take a double dose.

Start with 1 mg daily. If symptoms are not adequately controlled after four to six weeks, the dose may be increased to 2 mg daily. Use the lowest effective dose.

For osteoporosis prevention, a minimum of 1 mg daily is usually required. Treatment should be reviewed at least annually.

Women with a uterus must add a progestogen for a minimum of 12 to 14 days per 28-day cycle (sequential regimen) or daily (continuous combined regimen).

Common: breast tenderness, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, weight changes, mood alteration. Uncommon: leg cramps, migraine, dizziness, rash, alopecia, pruritus.

Rare but serious: venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), stroke, endometrial hyperplasia or cancer (if progestogen opposition is inadequate).

Long-term use of oestrogen-only HRT carries a small increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Breast cancer risk with oestrogen-only HRT is lower than with combined HRT but may increase slightly with prolonged use beyond five years.

Women with a uterus must take adequate progestogen opposition to prevent endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. Investigate any unscheduled vaginal bleeding.

HRT increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, particularly in the first year and in women with additional risk factors such as obesity, thrombophilia, or immobility.

Do not use for cardiovascular protection. Regular breast screening is recommended. Discontinue and seek medical attention if signs of thromboembolism develop.

Contraindicated in known or suspected breast cancer, oestrogen-dependent malignancies, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, untreated endometrial hyperplasia, active or past venous or arterial thromboembolism, acute liver disease, porphyria, and known hypersensitivity to estradiol or any excipient.

Not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.