Pharmacy Guide

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Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Dydrogesterone, Estradiol hemihydrate may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Dydrogesterone, Estradiol hemihydrate

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

FOR Femoston is a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It contains two types of female hormones, an oestrogen and a progestogen. HRT is used in woman who require oestrogen replacement and who have not had their womb removed (hysterectomy). Femoston is used in postmenopausal women at least 6 months since last menses. Femoston is used for: Relief of symptoms occurring after menopause During the menopause, the amount of oestrogen produced by a woman's body drops. This can cause symptoms such as hot face, neck and chest ("hot flushes"). Femoston alleviates these symptoms after menopause. You will only be prescribed Femoston if your symptoms seriously hinder your daily life. Prevention of osteoporosis After the menopause some women may develop fragile bones (osteoporosis). You should discuss all available options with your doctor. If you are at an increased risk of fractures due to osteoporosis and other medicines are not suitable for you, you can use Femoston to prevent osteoporosis after menopause.

What you need to know before you take it

E FEMOSTON Medical history and regular check-ups The use of HRT carries risks which need to be considered when deciding whether to start taking it, or whether to carry on taking it. The experience in treating women with a premature menopause (due to ovarian failure or surgery) is limited. If you have a premature menopause the risks of using HRT may be different. Please talk to your doctor. Before you start (or restart) HRT, your doctor will ask about your own and your family's medical history. Your doctor may decide to perform a physical examination. This may include an examination of your breasts and/or an internal examination, if necessary. Once you have started on Femoston you should see your doctor for regular check-ups (at least once a year). At these check-ups, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of continuing with Femoston. Go for regular breast screening, as recommended by your doctor.

Do not take Femoston If any of the following applies to you. If you are not sure about any of the points below, talk to your doctor before taking Femoston. Do not take Femoston

  • If you have meningioma or have ever been diagnosed with a meningioma (a generally benign tumour of the tissue layer between the brain and the skull)
  • If you have or have ever had breast cancer, or if you are suspected of having it
  • If you have cancer which is sensitive to oestrogens, such as cancer of the womb lining (endometrium), or if you are suspected of having it
  • If you have a tumour which is sensitive to progestogen
  • If you have any unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • If you have excessive thickening of the womb lining (endometrial hyperplasia) that is not being treated
  • If you have or have ever had a blood clot in a vein (thrombosis), such as in the legs (deep venous thrombosis) or the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
  • If you have a blood clotting disorder (such as protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency)
  • If you have or recently have had a disease caused by blood clots in the arteries, such as a heart attack, stroke or angina
  • If you have or have ever had a liver disease and your liver function tests have not returned to normal
  • If you have a rare blood problem called "porphyria" which is passed down in families (inherited)
  • If you are allergic (hypersensitive) to oestradiol/ dydrogesterone or any of the other ingredients of Femoston (listed in section 6 Further information) If any of the above conditions appear for the first time while taking Femoston, stop taking it at once and consult your doctor immediately. When to take special care with Femoston Tell your doctor if you have ever had any of the following problems, before you start the treatment, as these may return or become worse during treatment with Femoston. If so, you should see your doctor more often for check-ups:
  • fibroids inside your womb
  • growth of womb lining outside your womb (endometriosis) or a history of excessive growth of the womb lining (endometrial hyperplasia)
  • increased risk of developing blood clots (see "Blood clots in a vein (thrombosis)")
  • increased risk of getting an oestrogen-sensitive cancer (such as having a mother, sister or grandmother who has had breast cancer)
  • high blood pressure
  • a liver disorder, such as a benign liver tumour
  • diabetes
  • gallstones
  • migraine or severe headaches
  • a disease of the immune system that affects many organs of the body (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE)
  • epilepsy
  • asthma
  • a disease affecting the eardrum and hearing (otosclerosis)
  • a very high level of fat in your blood (triglycerides)
  • fluid retention due to cardiac or kidney problems
  • hereditary and acquired angioedema.

Meningioma Use of Femoston has been linked to the development of a generally benign tumour of the tissue layer between the brain and the skull (meningioma). If you are diagnosed with meningioma, your doctor will stop your treatment with Femoston (see section 'Do not take…'). If you notice any symptoms such as changes in vision (e.g. seeing double or blurriness), hearing loss or ringing in the ears, loss of smell, headaches that worsen with time, memory loss, seizures, weakness in your arms or legs, you must tell your doctor straightaway. Stop taking Femoston and see a doctor immediately If you notice any of the following when taking HRT:

  • any of the conditions mentioned in the 'Do not take Femoston' section
  • yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes (jaundice). These may be signs of a liver disease
  • swollen face, tongue and/or throat and/or difficulty swallowing or hives, together with difficulty breathing which are suggestive of an angioedema
  • a large rise in your blood pressure (symptoms may be headache, tiredness, dizziness)
  • migraine-like headaches which happen for the first time
  • if you become pregnant
  • if you notice signs of a blood clot, such as
  • painful swelling and redness of the legs
  • sudden chest pain
  • difficulty in breathing For more information, see 'Blood clots in a vein (thrombosis)' Note: Femoston is not a contraceptive. If it is less than 12 months since your last menstrual period or you are under 50 years old, you may still need to use additional contraception to prevent pregnancy. Speak to your doctor for advice. HRT and cancer Excessive thickening of the lining of the womb (endometrial hyperplasia) and cancer of the lining of the womb (endometrial cancer) Taking oestrogen-only HRT will increase the risk of excessive thickening of the lining of the womb (endometrial hyperplasia) and cancer of the womb lining (endometrial cancer). The progestogen in Femoston protects you from this extra risk. Irregular bleeding You may have irregular bleeding or drops of blood (spotting) during the first 3-6 months of taking Femoston. However, if the irregular bleeding:
  • carries on for more than the first 6 months
  • starts after you have been taking Femoston for more than 6 months
  • carries on after you have stopped taking Femoston see your doctor as soon as possible. Unexpected bleeding You will have a bleed once a month (so-called withdrawal bleed) while taking Femoston. But, if you have unexpected bleeding or drops of blood (spotting) besides your monthly bleeding, which: • carries on for more than the first 6 months
  • starts after you have been taking Femoston more than 6 months
  • carries on after you have stopped taking Femoston see your doctor as soon as possible Breast cancer Evidence shows that taking combined oestrogen-progestogen or oestrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increases the risk of breast cancer. The extra risk depends on how long you use HRT. The additional risk becomes clear within 3 years of use. After stopping HRT the extra risk will

decrease with time, but the risk may persist for 10 years or more if you have used HRT for more than 5 years. Compare Women aged 50 to 54 who are not taking HRT, on average, 13 to 17 in 1000 will be diagnosed with breast cancer over a 5-year period. For women aged 50 who start taking oestrogen-only HRT for 5 years, there will be 16-17 cases in 1000 users (i.e. an extra 0 to 3 cases). For women aged 50 who start taking oestrogen-progestogen HRT for 5 years, there will be 21 cases in 1000 users (i.e. an extra 4 to 8 cases). Women aged 50 to 59 who are not taking HRT, on average, 27 in 1000 will be diagnosed with breast cancer over a 10-year period. For women aged 50 who start taking oestrogen-only HRT for 10 years, there will be 34 cases in 1000 users (i.e. an extra 7 cases) For women aged 50 who start taking oestrogen-progestogen HRT for 10 years, there will be 48 cases in 1000 users (i.e. an extra 21 cases).

  • Regularly check your breasts. See your doctor if you notice any changes such as:
  • dimpling of the skin
  • changes in the nipple
  • any lumps you can see or feel Ovarian cancer Ovarian cancer is rare much rarer than breast cancer. The use of oestrogen-only or combined oestrogen-progestogen HRT has been associated with a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer. The risk of ovarian cancer varies with age. For example, in women aged 50 to 54 who are not taking HRT, about 2 women in 2000 will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer over a 5-year period. For women who have been taking HRT for 5 years, there will be about 3 cases per 2000 users (i.e. about 1 extra case). Effect of HRT on heart and circulation Blood clots in a vein (thrombosis) The risk of blood clots in the veins is about 1.3 to 3-times higher in HRT users than in non-users, especially during the first year of taking it. Blood clots can be serious, and if one travels to the lungs, it can cause chest pain, breathlessness, fainting or even death. You are more likely to get a blood clot in your veins as you get older and if any of the following applies to you. Inform your doctor if any of these situations applies to you:
  • you are unable to walk for a long time because of major surgery, injury or illness (see also section 3, If you need to have surgery)
  • you are seriously overweight (BMI >30 kg/m2)
  • you have any blood clotting problem that needs long-term treatment with a medicine used to prevent blood clots
  • if any of your close relatives has ever had a blood clot in the leg, lung or any other organ
  • you have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  • you have cancer. For signs of a blood clot, see "Stop taking Femoston and see a doctor immediately". Compare Looking at women in their 50s who are not taking HRT, on average, over a 5-year period, 4 to 7 in 1000 would be expected to get a blood clot in a vein. For women in their 50s who have been taking oestrogen-progestogen HRT for over 5 years, there will be 9 to 12 cases in 1000 users (i.e. an extra 5 cases). Heart disease (heart attack) There is no evidence that HRT will prevent a heart attack. Women over the age of 60 years who use oestrogen-progestogen HRT are slightly more likely to develop heart disease than those not taking any HRT.

Stroke The risk of having a stroke is about 1.5 times higher in HRT users than in non-users. The number of extra cases of stroke due to use of HRT will increase with age. Compare Looking at women in their 50s who are not taking HRT, on average, 8 in 1000 would be expected to have a stroke over a 5-year period. For women in their 50s who are taking HRT, there will be 11 cases in 1000 users, over 5 years (i.e. an extra 3 cases). Other conditions

  • HRT will not prevent memory loss. There is some evidence of a higher risk of memory loss in women who start using HRT after the age of 65. Speak to your doctor for advice. Using other medicines Some medicines may interfere with the effect of Femoston. This might lead to irregular bleeding. This applies to the following medicines:
  • Medicines for epilepsy (such as phenobarbital, phenytoin and carbamazepine)
  • Medicines for tuberculosis (such as rifampicin and rifabutin)
  • Medicines for HIV infection (such as nevirapine, efavirenz, ritonavir and nelfinavir)
  • Herbal remedies containing St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum). HRT can affect the way some medicines work: • A medicine for epilepsy (lamotrigine), as this could increase frequency of seizures • Medicines for Hepatitis C virus (HCV) (such as combination regimens ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin; glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir) may cause increases in liver function blood test results (increase in ALT liver enzyme) in women using CHCs containing ethinylestradiol. Femoston contains estradiol instead of ethinylestradiol. It is not known whether an increase in ALT liver enzyme can occur when using Femoston with this HCV combination regimen. Problems due to high levels of the following medicines may occur when you take Femoston so careful drug monitoring and dose decrease may become necessary:
  • tacrolimus and cyclosporin – used, for example, for organ transplants
  • fentanyl – a painkiller
  • theophylline – used for asthma and other breathing problems Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines including medicines obtained without a prescription, herbal medicines or other natural products. Your doctor will advise you. Laboratory tests If you need a blood test, tell your doctor or the laboratory staff that you are taking Femoston, because this medicine can affect the results of some tests. Pregnancy and breast-feeding Femoston is for use in postmenopausal women only. If you become pregnant, stop taking Femoston and contact your doctor. Femoston tablets contain lactose If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product. 3. HOW TO TAKE FEMOSTON

Always take Femoston exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

How to take it

Femoston Take one tablet every day, without a break between packs. Swallow the tablet with water, with or without food. Your doctor will aim to give you the lowest dose for the shortest time to treat your symptoms. Speak to your doctor if you think this dose is too strong or not strong enough. The usual starting dose is: During day 1 to 14 of the cycle, 1 tablet daily containing 1 or 2 mg oestradiol. During day 15 to 28 of the cycle, 1 tablet daily containing 1 or 2 mg oestradiol and 10 mg dydrogesterone. Immediately after the 28-day cycle you should begin the next treatment. The days of the week are printed on the back of the blister strips. The tablets from the part marked with arrow 1 should be taken first, then the tablets from the part marked with arrow 2 should be taken. If you are not having periods and are not taking any other Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) preparations, or you are switching from a combined continuous HRT product, you can start taking Femoston on any convenient day. If you are currently using a 'cyclic' or 'sequential' HRT preparation (which involves taking an oestrogen tablet or patch for part of the month, followed by both oestrogen and progestogen tablet or patch for up to 14 days) start taking Femoston the day after you finish the pack i.e. at the end of the progestogen phase. The doctor may increase the dose later, if necessary. The different tablet strengths are colour-coded for your convenience. If you are taking Femoston to treat symptoms of the menopause (change of life), your treatment should begin with the dosage Femoston 1/10. Your doctor will then increase this dose according to your symptoms. If you are taking Femoston to prevent osteoporosis, your doctor will adjust the dose individually according to your bone mass. If you take more Femoston than you should If you or somebody else takes too many Femoston tablets, they are unlikely to come to any harm. Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting, breast tenderness, dizziness, abdominal pain, drowsiness/fatigue, and withdrawal bleeding may occur. No treatment is necessary, but if you are worried contact your doctor for advice. If you forget to take Femoston Take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. If it is more than 12 hours since you took the last one, take the next dose without taking the forgotten tablet. Do not take a double dose. Bleeding or spotting may occur if you miss a dose. If you stop taking Femoston Do not stop taking Femoston without first talking to your doctor. If you have any further questions on the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist. If you need to have surgery If you are going to have surgery, tell the surgeon that you are taking Femoston. You may need to stop taking Femoston about 4 to 6 weeks before the operation to reduce the risk of a blood clot (see section 2, Blood clots in a vein). Ask your doctor when you can start taking Femoston again.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, Femoston can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The following diseases are reported more often in women using HRT compared to women not using HRT:

  • breast cancer
  • abnormal growth or cancer of the lining of the womb (endometrial hyperplasia or cancer)
  • ovarian cancer
  • blood clots in the veins of the legs or lungs (venous thromboembolism)
  • heart disease
  • stroke
  • probable memory loss if HRT is started over the age of 65 For more information about these side effects, see Section 2. The following serious side effects may occur during treatment with Femoston:
  • allergic reactions that may cause swelling of the skin around the face and neck. This may cause difficulty breathing
  • heart attack
  • tumours that may be affected by the levels of progestogens (e.g. meningioma)
  • heavy, irregular or painful genital bleeding If any of these side effects occur you should stop treatment immediately and contact your doctor. The following side effects may occur during treatment: Very common (in more than 1 in 10 patients treated):
  • headache
  • abdominal pain
  • back pain
  • breast pain or tenderness Common (in less than 1 in 10, but more than 1 in 100 patients treated):
  • vaginal thrush (a vaginal infection due to a fungus called Candida albicans)
  • depression
  • nervousness
  • migraine
  • dizziness
  • feeling sick
  • vomiting
  • wind (flatulence)
  • allergic skin reactions (including rash or itching)
  • unscheduled bleeding or spotting, heavy, irregular
  • or painful periods
  • pelvic pain
  • vaginal discharge
  • generally feeling unwell, weak or tired
  • swelling of the ankles, feet or fingers (peripheral oedema)
  • increase in weight Uncommon (in less than 1 in 100, but more than 1 in 1,000 patients treated):
  • symptoms of cystitis
  • fibroids get bigger (growths in the womb increase)
  • change in sex drive
  • high blood pressure
  • peripheral vascular disease
  • varicose veins
  • blood clots in the veins of the legs or lungs (venous thromboembolism)
  • indigestion
  • liver disorders, which may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin), asthenia (feeling weak) and general malaise and abdominal pain
  • gall bladder disorder
  • swelling of the breasts
  • pre-menstrual tension (PMT)
  • decrease in weight Rare (in less than 1 in 1,000, but more than 1 in 10,000 patients treated):
  • heart attack
  • swelling of the skin around the face and neck. This may cause difficulty breathing
  • red or brown patches on the skin If unscheduled bleeding occurs after some time on HRT, you should contact your doctor. If unscheduled bleeding continues after stopping HRT, it may be necessary to perform tests to exclude disease of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus). Changes can occur in the levels of certain proteins and hormones in the blood. The action of the hormones in the body is not affected. You should tell your doctor that you are taking HRT if you are to have a blood test. The following side effects have been reported with HRTs (including Femoston):
  • benign or malignant tumours which may be affected by the levels of oestrogens, such as cancer of the womb lining, ovarian cancer
  • increased size of tumours that may be affected by the levels of progestogens (such as meningioma)
  • reduction in red blood cells which can make the skin pale and cause weakness or breathlessness (anaemia)
  • a disease where the immune system abnormally attacks many organs of the body (systemic lupus erythematosus)
  • high levels of certain blood fats (hypertriglyceridemia)
  • loss of mental abilities such as thinking, remembering and reasoning (dementia)
  • chorea (muscle twitches)
  • worsening of fits (epilepsy)
  • change in the surface of the eye
  • intolerance to contact lenses
  • blood clots in the arteries (arterial thromboembolism)
  • inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) in women with pre-existing high levels of certain blood fats (hypertriglyceridemia)
  • various skin disorders: discoloration of the skin especially of the face or neck known as "pregnancy patches" (chloasma), painful reddish skin nodules (erythema nodosum), rash with target-shaped reddening or sores (erythema multiforme)
  • Leg cramps
  • urinary incontinence
  • painful/lumpy breasts (fibrocystic breast changes), uterine cervical erosion
  • worsening of porphyria (a rare blood pigment disorder)
  • increased total thyroid hormones If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting systems listed below. The Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

FEMOSTON Keep out of the reach and sight of children. This medicinal product does not require any special storage conditions. Do not take Femoston after the "use before" date, which is stated on the pack. The "use before" date refers to the last day of that month. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Femoston contains

  • The active substances are:
  • oestradiol
  • dydrogesterone Femoston 1/10 Contains 14 white tablets with 1 mg oestradiol per tablet for the first 14 days of the cycle and 14 grey tablets with 1 mg oestradiol and 10 mg dydrogesterone for the second 14 days of the cycle. Femoston 2/10 Contains 14 brick red tablets with 2 mg oestradiol per tablet for the first 14 days of the cycle and 14 yellow tablets with 2 mg oestradiol and 10 mg dydrogesterone for the second 14 days of the cycle.
  • The other ingredients in the tablet core are: lactose, hypromellose, maize starch, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate
  • The other ingredients in the film coating for Femoston 1/10 oestradiol only are: hypromellose, macrogol 400, titanium dioxide (E171)
  • The other ingredients in the film coating for Femoston 1/10 oestradiol/dydrogesterone are: Polyvinylalcohol, Macrogel 3350, talc, titanium dioxide (E171), black iron oxide (E172).
  • The other ingredients in the film coating for Femoston 2/10 oestradiol only are: hypromellose, talc, macrogol 400, titanium dioxide (E171), black, red, and yellow iron oxides (E172).
  • The other ingredients in the film coating for Femoston 2/10 oestradiol/dydrogesterone are: hypromellose, talc, macrogol 400, titanium dioxide (E171), yellow iron oxide (E172). What Femoston looks like and contents of the pack Film-coated tablets. Femoston 1/10 Round white film-coated tablets and round grey film-coated tablets. The inscription on the tablets is '379' on one side. The tablets are packed in a PVC film with a covering aluminium foil. The blister packs contain 84 film-coated tablets. Femoston 2/10 Round brick red film-coated tablets and round yellow film-coated tablets. The inscription on the tablets is '379' on one side. The tablets are packed in a PVC/PVdC or PVC film with a covering aluminium foil. The blister packs contain 28 or 84 film-coated tablets. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder Exeltis Healthcare S.L. Avda. de Miralcampo 7 Pol. Ind. Miralcampo 19200 Azuqueca de Henare (Guadalajara) Spain Manufacturer Abbott Biologicals B.V. 8121 AA, Olst The Netherlands This leaflet was last revised in April 2025.

Frequently asked questions about Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets

How do I take Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets?

Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets comes as tablet containing 10mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets?

The active substance in Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets is dydrogesterone, estradiol hemihydrate.

Are there equivalent medicines to Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Femoston 2/10 mg Film-coated Tablets. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Femoston 1/10 mg Film-coated Tablets without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Dydrogesterone (5 medicines), Dydrogesterone, estradiol hemihydrate (4 medicines), Estradiol hemihydrate (40 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for oestrogen deficiency symptoms in postmenopausal women at least 6 months since last menses.

Prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women at high risk of future fractures who are intolerant of, or contraindicated for, other medicinal products approved for the prevention of osteoporosis. (See also section 4.4)

The experience in treating women older than 65 years is limited.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Femoston 1/10 and Femoston 2/10, are continuous sequential hormone replacement therapies.

For initiation and continuation of treatment of postmenopausal symptoms, the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration (see also section 4.4) should be used.

In general, treatment should start with Femoston 1/10. Depending on the clinical response, the dosage can afterwards be adjusted to individual need. If the complaints linked to oestrogen deficiency are not ameliorated the dosage can be increased by using Femoston 2/10

Starting Femoston

In women who are not taking hormone replacement therapy and who are amenorrhoeic, or women who switch from a continuous combined hormone replacement therapy, treatment may be started on any convenient day. In women transferring from a cyclic or continuous sequential HRT regimen, treatment should begin the day following completion of the prior regimen.

Administration

For the first 14 days during a 28-cycle, one tablet containing oestradiol is taken daily; during the following 14 days one tablet containing oestradiol and dydrogesterone is taken.

After a cycle of 28 days, on the 29th day, a new 28-day cycle begins. This means that the treatment should be taken continuously without a break between packs. Femoston can be taken with or without food.

The days of the week are printed on the back of the blister strips. Firstly, the tablets from the part marked with arrow 1 should be taken, then all the tablets from the part marked with arrow 2 should be taken.

If a dose has been forgotten, it should be taken as soon as possible. When more than 12 hours have elapsed, it is recommended to continue with the next dose without taking the forgotten tablet. The likelihood of breakthrough bleeding or spotting may be increased.

Paediatric population:

There is no relevant indication for the use of Femoston in the paediatric population.

4.3. Contraindications

- Known, past or suspected breast cancer;

- Known or suspected oestrogen-dependent malignant tumours (e.g. endometrial cancer);

- Known or suspected progestogen-dependent neoplasms;

- Undiagnosed genital bleeding;

- Untreated endometrial hyperplasia;

- Previous idiopathic or current venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism);

- Known thrombophilic disorders (e.g. protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, see section 4.4.);

- Active or recent arterial thromboembolic disease (e.g. angina, myocardial infarction);

- Acute liver disease or a history of liver disease as long as liver function tests have failed to return to normal;

- Porphyria;

- Known hypersensitivity to the active substances or to any of the excipients.

- Meningioma or history of meningioma

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

For the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms, HRT should only be initiated for symptoms that adversely affect quality of life. In all cases, a careful appraisal of the risks and benefits should be undertaken at least annually and HRT should only be continued as long as the benefit outweighs the risk.

Evidence regarding the risks associated with HRT in the treatment of premature menopause is limited. Due to the low level of absolute risk in younger women, however, the balance of benefits and risks for these women may be more favourable than in older women.

Medical examination/follow up

Before initiating or reinstituting HRT, a complete personal and family medical history should be taken. Physical (including pelvic and breast) examination should be guided by this and by the contraindications and warnings for use. During treatment, periodic check-ups are recommended of a frequency and nature adapted to the individual woman. Women should be advised what changes in their breasts should be reported to their doctor or nurse (see 'Breast cancer' below). Investigations, including appropriate imaging tools, e.g. mammography, should be carried out in accordance with currently accepted screening practices, modified to the clinical needs of the individual.

Conditions which need supervision

If any of the following conditions are present, have occurred previously, and/or have been aggravated during pregnancy or previous hormone treatment, the patient should be closely supervised. It should be taken into account that these conditions may recur or be aggravated during treatment with Femoston, in particular:

- Leiomyoma (uterine fibroids) or endometriosis

- Risk factors for thromboembolic disorders (see below)

- Risk factors for oestrogen dependent tumours, e.g. 1st degree heredity for breast cancer

- Hypertension

- Liver disorders (e.g. liver adenoma)

- Diabetes mellitus with or without vascular involvement

- Cholelithiasis

- Migraine or (severe) headache

- Systemic lupus erythematosus

- A history of endometrial hyperplasia (see below)

- Epilepsy

- Asthma

- Otosclerosis

Meningioma

The occurrence of meningiomas (single and multiple) has been reported in association with use of Femoston. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of meningiomas in accordance with clinical practice. If a patient is diagnosed with meningioma, any oestradiol/dydrogesterone containing treatment must be stopped (see section 4.3). Tumour shrinkage has been observed after treatment discontinuation.

Reasons for immediate withdrawal of therapy:

Therapy should be discontinued in cases where a contra-indication is discovered and in the following situations:

- Jaundice or deterioration in liver function

- Significant increase in blood pressure

- New onset of migraine-type headache

- Pregnancy

Endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma

In women with an intact uterus the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma is increased when oestrogens are administered alone for prolonged periods. The reported increase in endometrial cancer risk among oestrogen-only users varies from 2- to 12-fold greater compared with non-users, depending on the duration of treatment and oestrogen dose (see section 4.8). After stopping treatment risk may remain elevated for at least 10 years.

The addition of a progestogen cyclically for at least 12 days per month/28 day cycle or continuous combined oestrogen-progestogen therapy in non-hysterectomised women prevents the excess risk associated with oestrogen-only HRT.

Break-through bleeding and spotting may occur during the first months of treatment. If break-through bleeding or spotting appears after some time on therapy, or continues after treatment has been discontinued, the reason should be investigated, which may include endometrial biopsy to exclude endometrial malignancy.

Breast cancer

The overall evidence shows an increased risk of breast cancer in women taking combined oestrogen-progestogen or oestrogen-only HRT, that is dependent on the duration of taking HRT.

Combined oestrogen-progestogen therapy

The randomised placebo-controlled trial, the Women's Health Initiative study (WHI) and a meta-analysis of prospective epidemiological studies are consistent in finding an increased risk of breast cancer in women taking combined oestrogen-progestogen for HRT that becomes apparent after about 3 (1-4) years (see Section 4.8).

Oestrogen-only therapy

The WHI trial found no increase in the risk of breast cancer in hysterectomised women using oestrogen-only HRT. Observational studies have mostly reported a small increase in risk of having breast cancer diagnosed that is lower than that found in users of oestrogen-progestogen combinations (see section 4.8).

Results from a large meta-analysis showed that after stopping treatment, the excess risk will decrease with time and the time needed to return to baseline depends on the duration of prior HRT use. When HRT was taken for more than 5 years, the risk may persist for 10 years or more.

HRT, especially oestrogen-progestogen combined treatment, increases the density of mammographic images which may adversely affect the radiological detection of breast cancer.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is much rarer than breast cancer. Epidemiological evidence from a large meta-analysis suggests a slightly increased risk in women taking oestrogen-only or combined oestrogen-progestogen HRT, which becomes apparent within 5 years of use and diminishes over time after stopping. Some other studies including the WHI trial suggest that use of combined HRTs may be associated with a similar or slightly smaller risk (see Section 4.8).

Venous thromboembolism

- HRT is associated with a 1.3-3 fold risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), i.e. deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. The occurrence of such an event is more likely in the first year of HRT than later.

- Patients with known thrombophilic states have an increased risk of VTE and HRT may add to this risk. HRT is therefore contraindicated in these patients (see section 4.3)

- Generally recognised risk factors for VTE include, use of oestrogens, older ages, major surgery, prolonged immobilisation, severe obesity (BMI>30 kg/m2), pregnancy/postpartum period, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and cancer. There is no consensus about the possible role of varicose veins in VTE.

As in all postoperative patients, prophylactic measures need to be considered to prevent VTE following surgery. If prolonged immobilisation is to follow elective surgery temporarily stopping HRT 4 to 6 weeks earlier is recommended. Treatment should not be restarted until the woman is completely mobilised.

- In women with no personal history of VTE but with a first degree relative with a history of thrombosis at young age, screening may be offered after careful counselling regarding its limitations (only a proportion of thrombophilic defects are identified by screening).If a thrombophilic defect is identified which segregates with thrombosis in family members or if the defect is 'severe' (e.g. antithrombin, protein S, or protein C deficiencies or a combination of defects) HRT is contraindicated.

- Women already on chronic anticoagulant treatment require careful consideration of the benefit-risk use of HRT.

- If VTE develops after initiating therapy, the drug should be discontinued. Patients should be told to contact their doctors immediately when they are aware of a potential thromboembolic symptom (e.g. painful swelling of a leg, sudden pain in the chest, dyspnoea).

Coronary artery disease (CAD)

There is no evidence from randomised controlled trials of protection against myocardial infarction in women with or without existing CAD who received combined oestrogen-progestogen or oestrogen-only HRT.

Combined oestrogen-progestogen therapy

The relative risk of CAD during use of combined oestrogen+progestogen HRT is slightly increased. As the baseline absolute risk of CAD is strongly dependent on age, the number of extra cases of CAD due to oestrogen+progestogen use is very low in healthy women close to menopause, but will rise with more advanced age.

Oestrogen-only

Randomised controlled data found no increased risk of CAD in hysterectomised women using oestrogen-only therapy.

Ischaemic stroke

Combined oestrogen-progestogen and oestrogen-only therapy are associated with an up to 1.5-fold increase in risk of ischaemic stroke. The relative risk does not change with age or time since menopause. However, as the baseline risk of stroke is strongly age-dependent, the overall risk of stroke in women who use HRT will increase with age (see section 4.8).

Other conditions

• Oestrogens may cause fluid retention, and therefore patients with cardiac or renal dysfunction should be carefully observed.

• Women with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia should be followed closely during oestrogen replacement or hormone replacement therapy, since rare cases of large increases of plasma triglycerides leading to pancreatitis have been reported with oestrogen therapy in this condition.

• Exogenous estrogens may induce or exacerbate symptoms of hereditary and acquired angioedema.

• Oestrogens increase thyroid binding globulin (TBG), leading to increased circulating total thyroid hormone, as measured by protein-bound iodine (PBI), T4 levels (by column or by radio-immunoassay) or T3 levels (by radio-immunoassay). T3 resin uptake is decreased, reflecting the elevated TBG. Free T4 and free T3 concentrations are unaltered. Other binding proteins may be elevated in serum, i.e. corticoid binding globulin (CBG), sex- hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) leading to increased circulating corticosteroids and sex steroids, respectively. Free or biological active hormone concentrations are unchanged. Other plasma proteins may be increased (angiotensinogen/renin substrate, alpha-1-antitrypsin, ceruloplasmin).

• HRT use does not improve cognitive function. There is some evidence of increased risk of possible dementia in women who start using continuous combined or oestrogen-only HRT after the age of 65.

• Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

• Women who may be at risk of pregnancy should be advised to adhere to non-hormonal contraceptive methods.

ALT elevations

During clinical trials with patients treated for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections with the combination regimen ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with and without ribavirin, ALT elevations greater than 5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) were significantly more frequent in women using ethinylestradiol-containing medicinal products such as CHCs. Additionally, also in patients treated with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, ALT elevations were observed in women using ethinylestradiol-containing medications such as CHCs. Women using medicinal products containing oestrogens other than ethinylestradiol, such as estradiol and ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin, had a rate of ALT elevation similar to those not receiving any oestrogens; however, due to the limited number of women taking these other oestrogens, caution is warranted for co-administration with the following combination drug regimens: ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir. See section 4.5.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

No interaction studies have been performed.

The efficacy of oestrogens and progestogens might be impaired:

The metabolism of oestrogens and progestogens may be increased by concomitant use of substances known to induce drug-metabolising enzymes, specifically the P450 enzymes 2B6, 3A4, 3A5, 3A7, such as anticonvulsants (e.g. phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamezapin) and anti-infectives (e.g. rifampicin, rifabutin, nevirapine, efavirenz).

Ritonavir and nelfinavir, although known as strong inhibitors of CYP450 3A4, A5, A7, by contrast exhibit inducing properties when used concomitantly with steroid hormones.

Herbal preparations containing St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) may induce the metabolism of oestrogens and progestogens via the CYP450 3A4 pathway.

Clinically an increased metabolism of oestrogens and progestogens may lead to decreased effect and changes in the uterine bleeding profile.

Effect of HRT with oestrogens on other medicinal products

Hormone contraceptives containing oestrogens have been shown to significantly decrease plasma concentrations of lamotrigine when co-administered due to induction of lamotrigine glucuronidation. This may reduce seizure control. Although the potential interaction between hormone replacement therapy and lamotrigine has not been studied, it is expected that a similar interaction exists, which may lead to a reduction in seizure control among women taking both medicinal products together.

Pharmacodynamic interactions

During clinical trials with the HCV combination drug regimen ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin, ALT elevations greater than 5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) were significantly more frequent in women using ethinylestradiol-containing medicinal products such as CHCs. Additionally, also with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, ALT elevations were observed in women using ethinylestradiol-containing medications such as CHCs.

Women using medicinal products containing oestrogens other than ethinylestradiol, such as estradiol, and ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin had a rate of ALT elevation similar to those not receiving any oestrogens; however, due to the limited number of women taking these other oestrogens, caution is warranted for co-administration with the following combination drug regimens: ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir (see section 4.4).

Oestrogens might interfere with the metabolism of other drugs:

Oestrogens per se may inhibit CYP450 drug-metabolising enzymes via competitive inhibition. This is in particular to be considered for substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as:

- tacrolimus and cyclosporine A (CYP450 3A4, 3A3)

- fentanyl (CYP450 3A4)

- theophylline (CYP450 1A2).

Clinically this may lead to an increased plasma level of the affected substances up to toxic concentrations. Thus, careful drug monitoring for an extended period of time might be indicated and a dosage decrease of tacrolimus, fentanyl, cyclosporin A and theophylline may be necessary.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy:

Femoston is not indicated during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs during medication with Femoston, treatment should be withdrawn immediately.

The results of most epidemiological studies to date relevant to inadvertent foetal exposure to combinations of oestrogens and progestogens indicate no teratogenic or foetotoxic effect.

There are no adequate data from the use of oestradiol/dydrogesterone in pregnant women.

Lactation:

Femoston is not indicated during lactation.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Femoston does not affect the ability to drive and use machines.

4.8. Undesirable effects

The most commonly reported adverse drug reactions of patients treated with oestradiol/dydrogesterone in clinical trials are headache, abdominal pain, breast pain/tenderness and back pain.

The following undesirable effects have been observed with the frequencies indicated below during clinical trials (n=4929):

MedDRA system organ class

Very common ≥1/10

Common ≥1/100, <1/10

Uncommon ≥1/1,000, <1/100

Rare ≥1/10,000, <1/1,000

Infections and infestations

Vaginal candidiasis

Cystitis-like syndrome

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified

Increase in size of leiomyoma

Immune system disorders

Hypersensitivity

Psychiatric disorders

Depression, Nervousness

Influence on libido

Nervous system disorders

Headache

Migraine, Dizziness

Cardiac disorders

Myocardial infarction

Vascular disorders

Hypertension, Peripheral vascular disease, Varicose vein, Venous thromboembolism

Gastrointestinal disorders

Abdominal pain

Nausea, Vomiting, Flatulence

Dyspepsia

Hepatobiliary disorders

Abnormal hepatic function, occasionally with jaundice asthenia or malaise, and abdominal pain, Gall bladder disorder

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Allergic skin reactions (e.g. rash, urticaria, pruritus)

Angioedema, Vascular purpura

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Back pain

Reproductive system and breast disorders

Breast pain/ tenderness

Menstrual disorders (including postmenopausal spotting, metrorrhagia, menorrhagia, oligo-/amenorrhoea, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhoea), Pelvic pain, Cervical discharge

Breast enlargement, Premenstrual syndrome

General disorders and administration site reactions

Asthenic conditions (asthenia, fatigue, malaise), Peripheral oedema

Investigations

Increased weight

Decreased weight

Breast Cancer risk

• An up to 2-fold increased risk of having breast cancer diagnosed is reported in women taking combined oestrogen-progestogen therapy for more than 5 years.

• The increased risk in users of oestrogen-only therapy is lower than that seen in users of oestrogen-progestogen combinations.

• The level of risk is dependent on the duration of use (see section 4.4).

• Absolute risk estimations based on results of the largest randomised placebo-controlled trial (WHI-study) and the largest meta-analysis of prospective epidemiological studies are presented.

Largest meta-analysis of prospective epidemiological studies– Estimated additional risk of breast cancer after 5 years' use in women with BMI 27 (kg/m2)

Age at the start of HRT (years)

Incidence per 1000 never-users of HRT over a 5 year period (50-54 years)*

Risk ratio

Additional cases per 1000 HRT users after 5 years

Oestrogen only HRT

50

13.3

1.2

2.7

Combined oestrogen-progestogen

50

13.3

1.6

8.0

*Taken from baseline incidence rates in England in 2015 in women with BMI 27 (kg/m2)

Note: Since the background incidence of breast cancer differs by EU country, the number of additional cases of breast cancer will also change proportionately.

Estimated additional risk of breast cancer after 10 years' use in women with BMI 27 (kg/m2)

Age at the start of HRT (years)

Incidence per 1000 never-users of HRT over a 10 year period (50-59 years)*

Risk ratio

Additional cases per 1000 HRT users after 10 years

Oestrogen only HRT

50

26.6

1.3

7.1

Combined oestrogen-progestogen

50

26.6

1.8

20.8

*Taken from baseline incidence rates in England in 2015 in women with BMI 27 (kg/m2)

Note: Since the background incidence of breast cancer differs by EU country, the number of additional cases of breast cancer will also change proportionately.

US WHI studies - additional risk of breast cancer after 5 years' use

Age range (years)

Incidence per 1000 women in placebo arm over 5 years

Risk ratio & 95%CI

Additional cases per 1000 HRT users over 5 years (95%CI)

CEE oestrogen-only

50-79

21

0.8 (0.7 – 1.0)

-4 (-6 – 0)*

CEE+MPA oestrogen & progestogen‡

50-79

17

1.2 (1.0 – 1.5)

+4 (0 – 9)

*WHI study in women with no uterus, which did not show an increase in risk of breast cancer

‡When the analysis was restricted to women who had not used HRT prior to the study there was no increased risk apparent during the first 5 years of treatment: after 5 years the risk was higher than in non-users

Endometrial cancer

Postmenopausal women with a uterus

The endometrial cancer risk is about 5 in every 1000 women with a uterus not using HRT.

In women with a uterus, use of oestrogen-only HRT is not recommended because it increases the risk of endometrial cancer (see section 4.4).

Depending on the duration of oestrogen-only use and oestrogen dose, the increase in risk of endometrial cancer in epidemiology studies varied from between 5 and 55 extra cases diagnosed in every 1000 between the ages of 50 and 65.

Adding a progestogen to oestrogen-only therapy for at least 12 days per cycle can prevent this increased risk. In the Million Women Study the use of five years of combined (sequential or continuous) HRT did not increase risk of endometrial cancer (R.R of 1 .0 (0.8-1.2)).

Ovarian cancer

Use of oestrogen-only or combined oestrogen-progestogen HRT has been associated with a slightly increased risk of having ovarian cancer diagnosed (see section 4.4).

A meta-analysis from 52 epidemiological studies reported an increased risk of ovarian cancer in women currently using HRT compared to women who have never used HRT (RR 1.43, 95% CI 1.31-1.56). For women aged 50 to 54 years taking 5 years of HRT, this results in about 1 extra case per 2000 users. In women aged 50 to 54 who are not taking HRT, about 2 women in 2000 will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer over a 5-year period.

Risk of venous thromboembolism

HRT is associated with a 1.3-3-fold increased relative risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE), i.e. deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. The occurrence of such an event is more likely in the first year of using HT (see section 4.4.). Results of the WHI studies are presented:

WHI Studies - Additional risk of VTE over 5 years' use

Age range (years)

Incidence per 1000 women in placebo arm over 5 years

Risk ratio and 95%CI

Additional cases per 1000 HRT users

Oral oestrogen-only*1

50-59

7

1.2 (0.6-2.4)

1 (-3 – 10)

Oral combined oestrogen-progestogen

50-59

4

2.3 (1.2 – 4.3)

5 (1 - 13)

1 Study in women with no uterus

Risk of coronary artery disease

• The risk of coronary artery disease is slightly increased in users of combined oestrogen-progestogen HRT over the age of 60 (see section 4.4).

Risk of ischaemic stroke

• The use of oestrogen-only and oestrogen + progestogen therapy is associated with an up to 1.5 fold increased relative risk of ischaemic stroke. The risk of haemorrhagic stroke is not increased during use of HRT.

• This relative risk is not dependent on age or on duration of use, but as the baseline risk is strongly age-dependent, the overall risk of stroke in women who use HRT will increase with age, see section 4.4.

WHI studies combined - Additional risk of ischaemic stroke*2 over 5 years' use

Age range (years)

Incidence per 1000 women in placebo arm over 5 years

Risk ratio and 95%CI

Additional cases per 1000 HRT users

50-59

8

1.3 (1.1-1.6)

3 (1–5)

2 No differentiation was made between ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke

Other adverse reactions have been reported in association with oestrogen/progestogen treatment (including oestradiol/dydrogesterone):

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified:

Oestrogen dependent neoplasms both benign and malignant, e.g. endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer. Increase in size of progestogen dependent neoplasms, e.g. meningioma.

Blood and lymphatic system disorders:

Haemolytic anaemia

Immune system disorders:

Systemic lupus erythematosus

Metabolism and nutrition disorders:

Hypertriglyceridemia

Nervous system disorders :

Probable dementia over the age of 65 (see section 4.4), chorea, exacerbation of epilepsy

Eye disorders:

Steepening of corneal curvature, contact lenses intolerance

Vascular disorders:

Arterial thromboembolism

Gastrointestinal disorders:

Pancreatitis (in women with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia)

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:

Erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, chloasma or melasma, which may persist when drug is discontinued.

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders:

Leg cramps

Renal and urinary disorders:

Urinary incontinence

Reproductive system and breast disorders:

Fibrocystic breast disease, uterine cervical erosion

Congenital, familial and genetic disorders:

Aggravated porphyria

Investigations:

Total thyroid hormones increased

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Both oestradiol and dydrogesterone are substances with low toxicity. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, dizziness, abdominal pain, drowsiness/fatigue, and withdrawal bleeding could occur in cases of overdosing. It is unlikely that any specific or symptomatic treatment will be necessary.

Aforementioned information is applicable for overdosing by children also.

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