Duavive

Brand Name

Duavive

Common Name

bazedoxifene - conjugated estrogens

In this drug factsheet:

• How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
• How should I use this medication?
• What form(s) does this medication come in?
• Who should NOT take this medication?
• What side effects are possible with this medication?
• Are any nutrients depleted by this medication?
• Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?
• What other drugs could interact with this medication?

How does this medication work? What will it do for me?

This combination product contains 2 medications: conjugated estrogens and bazedoxifene.

• Estrogen belongs to the class of drugs called hormones. It is a female hormone that is produced by the ovaries. Once menopause is reached, the ovaries produce less estrogen and symptoms of menopause can occur.
• Bazedoxifene belongs to the class of medications called selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). It prevents the estrogen from working in some parts of the body, preventing overgrowth of the lining of the uterus.

Together, they are used to help control episodes of sweating and sensation of heat, often referred to as "hot flashes" and "night sweats," associated with menopause.

This medication may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How should I use this medication?

The recommended adult dose of bazedoxifene - conjugated estrogens is one tablet, taken by mouth, once a day. Swallow the tablet whole with some water. It may be taken at any time of day, but it should be taken at the same time every day for best effect.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children. Keep this medication in its blister pack until you are ready to use. After opening the foil pouch that the blister pack comes in, this medication must be used within 45 days.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does this medication come in?

Who should NOT take this medication?

Do not take this medication if you:

• are allergic to estrogen, bazedoxifene, or any ingredients of the medication
• are or may become pregnant
• are breast feeding
• have eye damage resulting from blood vessel disease of the eye, such as a partial or complete loss of vision
• have, have had, or may have breast cancer
• have liver disease
• have a history of heart attack, coronary heart disease or stroke caused by a blood clot
• have or have had thrombophlebitis or thromboembolic disorders (blood clotting problems) such as a blood clot in the lung or the large muscle of the leg
• have certain hereditary blood clotting disorders (e.g., protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency)
• have or have had overgrowth of the endometrium
• have or may have a tumour dependent on estrogen
• have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding

What side effects are possible with this medication?

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• abdominal pain
• abnormal dreams
• acne
• appetite changes
• breast tenderness
• decreased sense of touch
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• dry eyes
• ear discomfort, hearing changes
• feeling hot
• hair loss
• heartburn
• gas
• menstrual cramps or spotting
• motion sickness
• muscle pain or spasms
• nausea
• nosebleeds
• rash
• vomiting

Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• breast lumps
• fluid retention (swelling of the lower legs, ankles, feet, or fingers)
• high blood pressure
• mood swings
• panic attacks
• pounding or rapid heartbeat
• symptoms of an infection (e.g., fever, cold-like symptoms)
• signs of depression (e.g., poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, thoughts of suicide)
• signs of liver problems (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools)
• symptoms of a blood clot in the leg (e.g., pain or swelling in the leg)
• symptoms of a urinary tract infection (e.g., pain when urinating, urinating more often than usual, low back or flank pain)
• unexpected vaginal bleeding
• vaginal infection

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• coughing blood
• headache (sudden or severe)
• sudden shortness of breath, coughing up blood, or sharp pain in chest
• sudden vision changes (such as partial or complete loss of vision, double vision)
• symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., hives; difficult breathing; swelling of the face, mouth, throat, or tongue)
• symptoms of a heart attack (e.g., chest pain or pressure, pain extending through shoulder and arm, nausea and vomiting, sweating)
• symptoms of a stroke (e.g., sudden and severe headache, sudden vision changes, sudden difficulty speaking, sudden weakness or numbness in arms or legs, sudden dizziness, fainting, or vomiting)

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Are any nutrients depleted by this medication?

Some medications can affect vitamin and nutrient levels in the body. Below is a list of nutrient depletions associated with this medication. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether taking a supplement is recommended or if you have any questions or concerns.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Blood clotting disorders: The use of estrogens is associated with an increased risk of blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and legs (deep vein thrombosis). If you have or have had a heart attack, stroke, heart disease, a blood clot in your leg, or medical conditions that increase your risk of blood clots, you should not use this medication.

The risk of developing blood clots also increases with age, a personal or family history of blood clots, smoking, and obesity. It is also increased if you are immobilized for prolonged periods or have major surgery. If possible, this medication should be stopped 4 weeks before major surgery. Talk about the risk of blood clots with your doctor.

Blood pressure: Women may experience increased blood pressure when using estrogen replacement therapy. Talk to your doctor about how often you should have your blood pressure checked.

Bone disease: If you have bone disease due to cancer or a metabolic condition causing too much calcium in your body, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Breast and ovarian cancer: Studies indicate an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer with long-term use of estrogen replacement therapy. Women with a history of breast cancer should not use estrogens. Women who have breast nodules, fibrocystic disease, abnormal mammograms, or a strong family history of breast cancer should be closely monitored by their doctor.

Women taking estrogens should have regular breast examinations and should be instructed in breast self-examination. The estradiol patch must not be applied to the breasts, as it may have harmful effects on the breast tissue.

Dementia: Women over the age of 65 receiving combined hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progestin or estrogen alone) may be at increased risk of developing dementia (loss of memory and intellectual function). If you are over 65, talk to your doctor about whether you should be tested for dementia.

Diabetes: Estrogens may affect blood sugar control. If you have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes (e.g., have a family history of diabetes, have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, or are obese), carefully monitor your blood glucose levels while using this medication.

Endometrial cancer: There is evidence from several studies that estrogen replacement therapy can increase the risk of cancer of the endometrium (lining of the uterus). Taking a SERM, such as bazedoxifene, along with the estrogen reduces this risk of endometrial cancer.

Break-through bleeding may occur early in treatment with this medication. If you develop any abnormal vaginal bleeding later on while using this medication, contact your doctor. If you have or have had endometrial cancer, you should not use this medication.

Endometriosis: Estrogen replacement therapy can cause endometriosis to reappear or get worse. If you have or have had endometriosis, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Fibroids: This medication may worsen fibroids by causing sudden enlargement, pain, or tenderness. If you notice these effects, contact your doctor.

Fluid retention: Estrogen may cause fluid retention, and worsen heart disease, kidney disease, or asthma. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. If you experience worsening of these conditions while using this medication, contact your doctor.

Follow-up examinations: It is important to have a follow-up examination 3 to 6 months after starting this medication to assess your response to treatment. Examinations should be done at least once a year after the first one.

Gallbladder disease: This medication can aggravate gallbladder disease or increase the risk of developing it. If you have gallbladder disease, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Heart disease and stroke: Studies indicate an increased risk of heart disease and stroke with estrogen for postmenopausal women. If you experience symptoms of a heart attack (chest pain, tightness or pressure, sweating, nausea, feeling of impending doom) or stroke (sudden dizziness, headache, loss of speech, changes in vision, weakness or numbness in the arms and legs) while taking this medication, get immediate medical attention.

High cholesterol or triglycerides: Estrogen and bazedoxifene may increase triglyceride levels in those who already have high levels. If you have increased cholesterol or triglycerides, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Kidney function: Estrogen can affect how calcium and phosphorus are used by your body. If you have kidney disease, this may be a concern and you should discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Liver function: If you have reduced liver function, you may require special monitoring by your doctor while you use this medication. Make sure to tell your doctor if you have ever had liver problems. People with active liver disease or liver tumours should not use estrogen.

If you experience symptoms of liver problems (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, pale stools, nausea, or vomiting), contact your doctor immediately.

Migraine headaches: If you have migraines with aura (headache is associated with symptoms such as flashes of light, tingling sensations, blind spots, muscle weakness, and difficulty speaking either before or during the headache), you should not use this medication.

For some people who experience migraine headaches, estrogen can aggravate the condition. Talk to your doctor if you notice any change in your migraine pattern while using estrogen.

Seizures: Estrogens may increase your risk of having a seizure. If you have a seizure disorder or a history of seizures, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Thyroid disease: Estrogen may affect how thyroid hormone is used by the body. If you are taking thyroid medication to supplement an underactive thyroid gland, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Pregnancy: Estrogen should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: This medication passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking estrogen, it may affect your baby. This medication is not recommended for breast-feeding women.

Children: This medication is not intended for children or adolescents.

Seniors: The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been determined for adult women older than 75 years of age.

What other drugs could interact with this medication?

There may be an interaction between bazedoxifene - conjugated estrogen and any of the following:

• anastrozole
• apixaban
• argatroban
• bosentan
• cannabis
• carbamazepine
• celecoxib
• clozapine
• cyclosporine
• cyproterone
• dabigatran
• dabrafenib
• deferasirox
• dehydroepiandrosterone
• diabetes medications (e.g., chlorpropamide, glipizide, glyburide, insulin, metformin, rosiglitazone)
• edoxaban
• efavirenz
• eslicarbazepine
• etravirine
• exemestane
• heparin
• hyaluronidase
• lenalidomide
• low-molecular-weight heparins (e.g., dalteparin, enoxaparin, tinzaparin)
• mitotane
• modafinil
• oral corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, prednisone)
• phenobarbital
• phenytoin
• primidone
• rifabutin
• rifampin
• ritonavir
• rivaroxaban
• ropinirole
• St. John's wort
• siltuximab
• somatropin
• teriflunomide
• thalidomide
• theophyllines (e.g., aminophylline, oxtriphylline, theophylline)
• thyroid replacements (e.g., dessicated thyroid, levothyroxine)
• tipranavir
• tizanidine
• tocilizumab
• ursodiol
• vitamin C
• warfarin

If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Duavive