Zumenon 2mg tablets

Quantity	1 x 84 tablets

What is Zumenon?

Zumenon is a potent Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) that features a synthetic form of estrogen known as estradiol. This medication is designed for postmenopausal women, those who have been without a natural period for at least six months, and those transitioning from standard (cyclic or sequential) HRT as directed by their healthcare provider.

During menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, thinning hair, night sweats, and irregular menstrual cycles. Zumenon helps to replenish estrogen levels, providing relief from these uncomfortable symptoms and helping you to manage daily life more effectively.

Available in 1 mg or 2 mg doses, Zumenon is prescribed based on individual needs, with regular reviews to determine the most appropriate strength. To minimize risks such as certain cancers and blood clots associated with HRT, it’s recommended to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.

Manufactured by Mylan, Zumenon tablets come in packs of 84.

What is the active ingredient in Zumenon?

The Zumenon 1mg tablets contain 1mg of the active ingredient, estradiol hemihydrate.

What is Zumenon used for?

Zumenon is prescribed for:

Relief of Menopausal Symptoms: During menopause, the natural production of estrogen in a woman's body significantly decreases, which can lead to troublesome symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and discomfort in the face, neck, and chest. Zumenon is used to alleviate these symptoms and improve quality of life post-menopause.
Management of Severe Symptoms: Zumenon is typically prescribed when menopausal symptoms are severe enough to significantly impact daily activities and overall well-being. It is not used for mild symptoms but rather for those that are disruptive and challenging to manage.

Zumenon works by supplementing the declining estrogen levels, providing relief from the discomfort associated with menopause. Your doctor will only prescribe Zumenon if it is deemed necessary to address significant symptoms that are hindering your daily life.

How does Zumenon work?

Zumenon is a form of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) that contains estradiol, a synthetic form of estrogen. During menopause, a woman's natural estrogen levels decline, leading to various symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Zumenon works by replenishing estrogen levels in the body, which helps to alleviate these symptoms. Here's how Zumenon functions:

Restores Estrogen Levels: By introducing synthetic estradiol into the body, Zumenon compensates for the decreased production of natural estrogen during menopause.
Relieves Menopausal Symptoms: The restored estrogen helps to alleviate common menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, and mood swings, improving overall comfort and quality of life.
Regulates Hormonal Balance: Zumenon helps to stabilize hormonal levels, which can reduce the frequency and severity of menopausal symptoms and contribute to better daily functioning.
Customizable Dosage: Zumenon is available in different doses (1 mg or 2 mg), allowing for tailored treatment based on individual needs and symptoms. Your doctor will review your dosage regularly to ensure it remains appropriate for your condition.

Overall, Zumenon helps to manage menopausal symptoms by providing the body with the estrogen it no longer produces naturally, enhancing your comfort and well-being during this transitional phase of life.

How do you use Zumenon?

Who should not use Zumenon?

Understanding Risks and Monitoring:

Using Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) like Zumenon involves weighing potential risks. It's crucial to consider these risks before starting or continuing the treatment. If you have experienced premature menopause (due to ovarian failure or surgery), the risks associated with HRT might differ. Please discuss this with your doctor.

Initial Evaluation:

Before starting or restarting Zumenon, your doctor will review your medical history and may inquire about your family’s health background. A physical examination, including possible breast and/or internal exams, may be recommended.

Ongoing Monitoring:

Once you begin taking Zumenon, you should schedule regular check-ups with your doctor at least once a year. These appointments are essential to evaluate the benefits and risks of continued use. Regular breast screenings as advised by your doctor are also recommended.

When Not to Take Zumenon

Do not use Zumenon if any of the following apply to you. Consult your doctor if you are uncertain about any of these conditions:

History or suspicion of breast cancer.
Cancer that is sensitive to estrogen, such as endometrial cancer.
Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Untreated excessive thickening of the womb lining (endometrial hyperplasia).
History of blood clots in veins (e.g., deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism).
Blood clotting disorders (e.g., protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency).
Recent or past arterial blood clot-related diseases (e.g., heart attack, stroke, angina).
Liver disease with abnormal liver function tests.
Hereditary blood condition called porphyria.
Allergy to estradiol or any other ingredient in Zumenon.

If any of these conditions arise while taking Zumenon, discontinue use and consult your doctor immediately.

When to Exercise Caution

Inform your doctor if you have had or have any of the following conditions, as they may need closer monitoring during treatment with Zumenon:

Uterine fibroids.
Endometriosis or history of excessive growth of the womb lining.
Increased risk of blood clots.
Family history of estrogen-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast cancer).
High blood pressure.
Liver disorders, including benign liver tumors.
Diabetes.
Gallstones.
Migraine or severe headaches.
Autoimmune disorders (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus).
Epilepsy.
Asthma.
Hearing problems related to the eardrum (otosclerosis).
High blood fat levels (triglycerides).
Fluid retention due to cardiac or kidney issues.
Hereditary or acquired angioedema.

Immediate Action Required:

If you experience any of the following while on HRT, stop taking Zumenon and seek medical attention immediately:

Any conditions listed in the "Do Not Take Zumenon" section.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), indicating possible liver issues.
Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or difficulty swallowing, possibly indicating angioedema.
A significant increase in blood pressure (symptoms may include headache, tiredness, dizziness).
New or worsening migraine-like headaches.
Signs of pregnancy.
Symptoms of a blood clot, such as:
- Painful swelling and redness in the legs.
- Sudden chest pain.
- Difficulty breathing.

For more information, refer to the section on "Blood Clots in a Vein (Thrombosis)." Note: Zumenon is not a contraceptive. If you are under 50 or it's been less than 12 months since your last menstrual period, additional contraception may be necessary. Consult your doctor for guidance.

HRT and Cancer Risks

Endometrial Cancer: Using estrogen-only HRT like Zumenon can increase the risk of excessive thickening of the womb lining (endometrial hyperplasia) and endometrial cancer. Adding a progestogen to your regimen can mitigate this risk if you still have your womb. If you’ve had a hysterectomy, discuss with your doctor whether you can safely use Zumenon without a progestogen. Unexpected Bleeding: You may experience monthly bleeding (withdrawal bleed) while on Zumenon. If you have unexpected bleeding or spotting that persists beyond the first 6 months, begins after 6 months of use, or continues after stopping Zumenon, consult your doctor promptly. Breast Cancer: Evidence indicates that both combined estrogen-progestogen and estrogen-only HRT can increase the risk of breast cancer. The additional risk becomes noticeable within 3 years of use and may persist for up to 10 years or more after discontinuation, especially if used for over 5 years. Ovarian Cancer: Ovarian cancer risk is slightly increased with HRT use, though it is much rarer than breast cancer. For women aged 50-54 not taking HRT, about 2 in 2000 will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer over 5 years. This number increases slightly with 5 years of HRT use.

Cardiovascular Effects

Blood Clots: HRT use can increase the risk of blood clots in veins, especially in the first year. This risk is elevated with age and certain conditions. Symptoms of a blood clot include pain and swelling in the legs, sudden chest pain, and difficulty breathing. For more details, see "Blood Clots in a Vein (Thrombosis)." Heart Disease: There is no evidence that HRT prevents heart attacks. Women over 60 using combined estrogen-progestogen HRT may have a slightly higher risk of heart disease. Stroke: HRT use is associated with a 1.5-fold increase in stroke risk. For women in their 50s not using HRT, the average stroke incidence is 8 in 1000 over 5 years, which increases to 11 in 1000 with HRT use (an extra 3 cases). Other Conditions: HRT does not prevent memory loss, and there is some evidence suggesting a higher risk of memory issues if HRT is started after age 65.

Laboratory Tests

If you need blood tests, inform the medical staff that you are using Zumenon, as it may affect some test results.

Pregnancy and Breast-feeding

Zumenon is intended for use in peri and postmenopausal women only. If you become pregnant, discontinue Zumenon and consult your doctor immediately.

Lactose Intolerance

Zumenon tablets contain lactose. If you have been advised by your doctor that you have a sugar intolerance, consult your doctor before taking this medication.

What are the side effects with Zumenon?

Like all medications, Zumenon can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The following health issues are reported more frequently in women using HRT compared to those not using it:

Breast cancer
Abnormal growths or cancer of the womb lining (endometrial hyperplasia or cancer)
Ovarian cancer
Blood clots in the veins of the legs or lungs (venous thromboembolism)
Heart disease
Stroke
Potential memory loss in individuals over the age of 65

For further details on these side effects, refer to Section 2. Serious Side Effects: During treatment with Zumenon, the following serious side effects may occur:

Swelling around the face and neck, which may lead to breathing difficulties.
Heart attack
Heavy, irregular, or painful bleeding

If you experience any of these serious side effects, stop taking Zumenon immediately and contact your doctor. Common Side Effects: These side effects are seen in fewer than 1 in 10, but more than 1 in 100 patients:

Headache
Nausea
Leg cramps
Abdominal pain
Pelvic pain
Unscheduled bleeding or spotting
Gas
Weakness (asthenia)
Weight changes
Rash or itching

Uncommon Side Effects: These occur in fewer than 1 in 100, but more than 1 in 1,000 patients:

Allergic reactions, such as skin rash, itching, or redness
Hives
Painful, reddish skin nodules (erythema nodosum)
Feelings of depression
Vaginal thrush (Candida infection)
High blood pressure
Swelling of the ankles, feet, or fingers (peripheral edema)
Water retention (edema)
Peripheral vascular disease
Varicose veins
Blood clots in the veins (venous thromboembolism)
Gallbladder disorders
Back pain
Indigestion
Nervousness
Dizziness
Vision problems
Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
Breast pain or tenderness

Rare Side Effects: These occur in fewer than 1 in 1,000, but more than 1 in 10,000 patients:

Contact lens intolerance
Pre-menstrual tension (PMT)
Anxiety
Migraine
Vomiting
Bloating
Excessive hair growth
Acne
Muscle cramps
Vaginal discharge
Fatigue
Breast swelling
Changes in libido

Very Rare Side Effects: These occur in fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients:

Anemia (reduction in red blood cells), which can cause pale skin, weakness, or breathlessness

If you experience unscheduled bleeding after being on HRT for a period, consult your doctor. Persistent unscheduled bleeding after discontinuing HRT may require tests to check for endometrial issues. Laboratory Tests: Taking Zumenon can affect the levels of certain proteins and hormones in your blood, but it does not alter the hormones' effects in your body. Inform your doctor if you are undergoing blood tests. Additional Reported Side Effects (Frequency Unknown):

Enlargement of fibroids (womb growths)
Chorea (muscle twitches)
Worsening of epilepsy
Blood clots in arteries (arterial thromboembolism)
Pancreatitis in women with high blood fats
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (heartburn)
Liver disorders, including jaundice
Skin discoloration, particularly on the face or neck (chloasma)
Rash with target-shaped redness or sores (erythema multiforme)
Skin discoloration (purpura)
Swelling around the face and throat (angioedema)
Urinary incontinence
Painful or lumpy breasts (fibrocystic breast disease)

Reporting Side Effects: If you experience any side effects, including those not listed here, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or by searching for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. Reporting side effects helps enhance the safety information for this medicine.

Does Zumenon interact with other medicines?

Certain medicines can affect the efficacy of Zumenon or lead to irregular bleeding. These include:

Epilepsy medications (e.g., phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine).
Tuberculosis treatments (e.g., rifampicin, rifabutin).
HIV medications (e.g., nevirapine, efavirenz).
Herbal remedies like St John’s Wort.

Conversely, Zumenon may affect how other medications work, such as:

Epilepsy drug lamotrigine, which could increase seizure frequency.
Hepatitis C medications, potentially affecting liver enzyme levels.

Notify your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications, including over-the-counter and herbal products, before starting Zumenon.

Zumenon FAQs

What is Zumenon HRT?

Zumenon is a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that contains estradiol, a synthetic form of estrogen. It helps to alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flushes, night sweats, and mood changes, by supplementing declining estrogen levels in the body. Zumenon is available in 1 mg and 2 mg doses, which will be adjusted as needed based on your symptoms and response. It is manufactured by Mylan and comes in packs of 84 tablets.

What is Zumenon used for?

Zumenon is used to manage symptoms of menopause. When taken as directed, it can significantly improve quality of life by reducing symptoms like:

Hot flushes
Night sweats
Difficulty sleeping
Vaginal dryness
Reduced sex drive
Headaches
Mood changes
Irritability
Anxiety
Bloating
Digestive issues
Thinning hair
Joint pain
Weight changes

How does Zumenon work?

Zumenon works by replacing estrogen, a hormone that decreases during menopause. It contains estradiol, which mimics the effects of natural estrogen, helping to alleviate menopause symptoms. By increasing estrogen levels, Zumenon helps to manage both physical and emotional symptoms associated with menopause.

Does Zumenon cause weight gain?

Weight changes, including gain or loss, are noted as possible side effects of Zumenon. However, there is limited evidence linking Zumenon directly to weight gain. Many women experience weight changes during menopause due to hormonal fluctuations and aging factors, which can affect metabolism and appetite. Maintaining regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage weight. Fluid retention and digestive issues may also contribute to temporary weight changes, typically resolving within the first three months of use.

How long does Zumenon take to work?

Most women notice improvement in their menopause symptoms within a few weeks of starting Zumenon. Full benefits may take up to three or four months. If you don't see improvement or experience worsening symptoms, consult your doctor to adjust your treatment.

What other HRT options are available?

There are various HRT options, including those that contain only estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone. Alternatives to Zumenon with the same active ingredient (estradiol) include Elleste Solo and Progynova. Your doctor can help determine the best treatment based on your individual needs.

How should I take Zumenon?

Zumenon is for oral use only. Take one tablet daily with water, swallowing it whole. Each pack contains 28 tablets, and you should start a new pack the day after finishing the previous one, without any breaks. If you have a uterus, you'll need to take a progesterone HRT for the first 12-14 days of each new pack. Follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet carefully.

What if I miss a Zumenon pill?

If you miss a dose and realize it within 12 hours, take the missed pill as soon as possible. If it's more than 12 hours late, skip the missed pill and resume your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed pill.

What are the ingredients in Zumenon?

Zumenon tablets contain the active ingredient estradiol hemihydrate. Inactive ingredients include:

Lactose
Hypromellose
Maize starch
Magnesium stearate
Titanium dioxide (E171)
Colloidal anhydrous silica
Macrogol 400

Refer to the Patient Information Leaflet for a complete list of ingredients.

What are the side effects of Zumenon?

Common side effects include:

Headaches
Nausea
Leg cramps
Abdominal or pelvic pain
Irregular bleeding
Weight changes
Rashes or itching

Serious side effects are rare but include severe allergic reactions, blood clots, and severe mood changes. If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction, stop taking Zumenon and seek immediate medical attention.

Are there any warnings for Zumenon?

Zumenon may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers, blood clots, liver disease, or certain other conditions. Discuss any pre-existing health issues with your doctor before starting Zumenon. Regular check-ups with your GP are necessary to continue receiving Zumenon.

Can Zumenon affect cancer risk?

Zumenon may increase the risk of endometrial or ovarian cancer. It should only be used by women who have had a hysterectomy or, if you have a uterus, in combination with progesterone HRT. It can also increase the risk of breast cancer, so regular breast self-exams and medical check-ups are important.

Does Zumenon increase the risk of blood clots?

Yes, using HRT like Zumenon can increase the risk of developing blood clots. This can lead to serious conditions such as heart attacks or strokes. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of a blood clot.

Can I use Zumenon if I’m pregnant?

No, Zumenon should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using Zumenon, contact your doctor immediately for advice.