Written by Sarah Kim - January 06, 2023
Menopause is a natural process that every woman goes through, marking the end of her reproductive life. It is a time when the ovaries stop producing eggs and the levels of important hormones such as estrogen and progesterone decline. This hormonal imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms that affect a woman's physical and emotional wellbeing. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been the go-to treatment for menopausal symptoms for decades, a new drug called bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens has recently hit the market. In this article, we will explore what this new drug is, how it works, and whether it is safe and effective.
What is bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens?
Bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens is a combination of two drugs - bazedoxifene and conjugated estrogens. Bazedoxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that works by binding to estrogen receptors in the body, mimicking the effects of estrogen without actually providing estrogen. Conjugated estrogens, on the other hand, are a blend of estrogen hormones that are made from the urine of pregnant mares. Together, these drugs work to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
How does bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens work?
Bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens works by replacing the declining levels of estrogen in the body, which can help reduce menopausal symptoms. Bazedoxifene also has a unique mechanism of action in that it acts as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), meaning it can have varying effects on different tissues in the body. For example, bazedoxifene can act as an estrogen agonist (activator) on bone tissue, helping to prevent bone loss, while acting as an estrogen antagonist (blocker) on breast tissue, reducing the risk of breast cancer.
Is bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens safe?
Bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. Like all drugs, however, it is not without its risks. The most common side effects of bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens are similar to those of other estrogen-based therapies and can include headaches, breast tenderness, and vaginal bleeding. There is also a small risk of more serious side effects such as blood clots, stroke, and certain types of cancer. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of any menopausal treatment with your doctor before starting therapy.
Is bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens effective?
Bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens has been shown to be effective in reducing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It has also been shown to reduce the risk of bone fractures in postmenopausal women. However, it is important to note that no single treatment works for everyone, and individual responses to therapy may vary. Some women may find that a different form of HRT or non-hormonal therapies work better for them.
How to get bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens?
Bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens is a prescription-only medication and can only be obtained through a healthcare provider. If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine if bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens is right for you. Additionally, it's important to choose a licensed and reputable hormone replacement clinic to ensure that you are receiving the best possible care.
At Hormone Treatment Center , we specialize in providing personalized HRT for menopausal women. Our team of experienced healthcare providers will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. We offer a range of treatment options, including bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens, to help alleviate menopausal symptoms and improve your quality of life.
In conclusion, bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens is a new drug that has shown promise in treating menopausal symptoms. While it is not without its risks, it has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. As with any medication, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before starting therapy. If you are considering HRT for menopause, consider reaching out to Hormone Treatment Center to learn more about our personalized treatment options.