Loading...
Q. I take Premarin, but the drug is very expensive. Both my doctor and pharmacist say there is no generic version of this drug. How can this be true? It is my understanding that this hormone treatment has been on the market for decades.
A. Premarin (conjugated estrogens) was approved by the FDA in the early 1940s. According to the company, more than 30 billion doses have been dispensed over the last 70 years to treat menopausal symptoms.
The estrogens in Premarin are made from purified pregnant mare’s urine (we suspect the name Pre-Mar-In is some sort of combination of pregnant mare’s urine). This formulation has stimulated a lot of controversy from animal rights advocates. The uniqueness and complexity of this biological medicine has made it hard for the FDA to approve any generic substitutes.
The cost of Premarin (a month’s supply) in our area is over $140. Forty years ago, the cost of a three-month’s supply of Premarin was under $7.
Other Readers Angry About Cost of Premarin:
Judy relates her Canadian connection:
“I have been on Premarin since 1982 and feel great. I tried to get off it but I was tired the next day by noon.
“The Premarin makes me feel good and I am still working 25 hours a week. I am 71 years old, at a good weight and have no problems with heart, blood pressure and no mood swings.
“I tried that estradiol. Forget it! Not for me. I had a total hysterectomy in 1982 due to endometriosis. I am scared to get off Premarin because I got severe migraines before I started it.
“Medicare does not cover it anymore so I got in touch with a Canadian pharmacy in Winter Park, FL and I get 3 months for 54.00 delivered to the door from Canada. It is the same as I have taken all those years. I am not quitting this drug as I feel great and all my co-workers think I am in my 50’s; fine with me and yes I outwork those young girls. Just wanted to put in my two cents.”
Janet wonders about Canada:
“I cannot go without my Premarin.
“Please share your Canadian pharmacy with me as I cannot afford to buy Premarin any longer. My 0.62 mg is almost $4.00 a pill. The drug manufacturers in the US need to be hung up by their toes. No one can afford healthcare anymore, especially us aging women.”
Susie also wants more information:
“Judy, I would love to get in touch with that Canadian pharmacy in Winter Park because my Medicare drug insurance stopped their coverage of Premarin! I’ve been on this drug for 30+years and I’m not sure how to feel good about something that has helped for this many years. Premarin is a great drug but with all the controversy, I guess insurance companies caved in from the pressure. I’ll soon be desperate without Premarin.”
Pharmacy Checker for Better Cost of Premarin:
PharmacyChecker.com offers price comparisons on brand name Premarin. Here is a link to the website:
Another Option:
You might ask your physician about other options to the high cost of Premarin. There are a number of synthetic estrogen products as well as natural estrogens formulated by compounding pharmacists. Many visitors to our website have found such products cost effective. Some people also prefer non-equine estrogen on ethical grounds.
What Has Been Your Experience?
If you must rely on an estrogen product, what has worked for you? How have you dealt with the high cost of Premarin? Share your thoughts below in the comment section and please vote on this article at the top of the page.
Lori
I have been taking Premarin 0.625 mg tablets for hormone replacement therapy since 1971, when I was 14 … so for over 52 years. I recall that the inital cost was $8 for a 100-day supply. In the last 30 years, I have seen the cost continue to rise sharply, and the prescription refill reduced to 90 days. I did a lot of research and went to a Canadian pharmacy in Ontario for refills. Cost is about $70 for a 90-day supply, plus minor shipping fee, and it is sent directly to me. Locally, and even using GoodRX, the cost would be over $540 for a 90-day supply! I will continue HRT unless my GYN recommends otherwise.
Marie
I was prescribed Premarin in 1982, as I had a total hysterectomy in my early twenties so have been in this therapeutic medication for more than 40 years. In Australia the medication cost $25 (AUD) for 30-day supply of tablets without health insurance. However, I’ve moved to U.S., and the cost is outrageously high. 90-day supply is close to $200 (USD), and that’s with medical insurance. Not happy, as I can’t live without it!
BrendaS
For my first 3 refills of Premarin at my drug store I paid $40 per month. 4 days ago I was to pick up my next refill, and Premarin had increased to $110.16. I could NOT afford that amount. So, just when I was beginning to feel better, I had to STOP taking Premarin due to the COST of Prescription!!
Kim
Premarin cream needed. I just was told $500 for one tube. My GAWD, someone please help!
Maryann
Am I missing something? Was there an answer to this question, re: why it costs so much?
Does Premarin supply progesterone or estrogen, please?
My dr. gave me a coupon for Premarin cream which changed the cost from over $100 to $10!
YES, TEN DOLLARS for a 30gm tube.
What does this actually COST? It is absolutely maddening – I’m certainly willing to pay manufacturing costs and a modest profit, but 10x?? This is crazy!!
Thanks for your podcast; I learn a lot and enjoy it!
Terry Graedon
The answer is that the company charges what it wants to because it can.
Mary
How do I find out about the Canadien pharmacy that sells premarin for less?
Deena
I would like the information on the Canadian Pharmacy as well. Is it the same pill that is in the US? I have been taking Premarin for almost 30 year because I had a complete Hysterectomy at a young age. The cost in Ca is almost $6.00 per pill ($5.80), I can’t afford the cost anymore, but I don’t want to go without it either.
Beverly D.
South Carolina
I would also like the information on the Canadian Pharmacy. I am very upset that my insurance won’t cover it. I don’t want to switch to the generic for Estrace. Insurance won’t pay for the name brand Estrace either!
Pam
Virginia
I just looked up the price of Premarin cream and there’s no way I can afford $350.00. Do men have this much problems with the cost of Viagara or having their insurance companies pay for it. I don’t need the Premarin for vanity’s sake, but my vaginal skin had become so irritated that by the time I went to the doctor, it was so inflamed that she did a biopsy. (TG it was negative. I’m sure the resulting bill will be a shocker, as I have no insurance. I’m in the “crack,” not old enough for Medicare, not poor enough for Medicaid and can’t afford any of the ACA Marketplace plans. The costs would force me out of my home. Too bad for me! I’ll be using pea-sized amounts of the samples the doctor gave me.
Carol
Georgia
I have been on Premarin for about 40 years after a hysterectomy. No one in my family has or had cancer, except my Dad who had a skin cancer. Even when the cancer scare happened I refused to stop taking premarin. I am convinced that women who have cancer in their family history (particularly on the mother’s side) are the ones who will develop cancer if they continue with premarin. Just my take on it.
Carol
Georgia
If men had to pay for their Prescriptions as much as women do for premarin, all hell would break loose! It is ridiculous for premarin costs to be so high! Women are being victimized because we are women! We absolutely Must Have these prescriptions!
Sara
Seattle
Why there is not a generic for the Estrace cream I don’t know. Even with Rx insurance, the last tube cost over $350. This same amount of medication was (overpriced at) $60 a few years ago. And for $350, they give you this teensy plastic cap that probably cost a fraction of a cent, hard to see and use. My $6 toothpaste has a far better cap! The greed of these manufacturers is so infuriating.
I finally figured out the best way to use it to get the longest use from one tube. I use a tiny dab the size of a pea every night, applied with my finger to the inner parts of the vaginal opening, where intercourse can hurt, not using the applicator like they tell you to, far inside where it does not. I find it easier to remember when I apply a small amount every night. This and some nice gel lube means sex is pain-free now. Thank goodness.
Sunshine
California
I take plant-based estradiol and progesterone bioidentical hormones. I refuse to take Premarin (for it’s cruelty to mares – which are forced to stand in stalls with urine collection bags on 23 hours a day – and whose foals are sent to slaughter). I’m doing quite well on the plant-based hormones (especially in regards to alleviating insomnia and hot flashes), and for me it’s a more ethical choice.
Teresa
Kentucky
I have been using Premarin cream for 21 years. So thankful for insurance, but until I meet my deductible it costs me $365 a month! I also cannot understand why such an old product is cost costly. I tried pharmacy compounds, but they didn’t work for me. I don’t know if the estrogen has anything to do with it or not, but I am healthy (I take good care of my health!) and everyone thinks I’m 10-15 years younger than I am. I wouldn’t want to stop using it. Works for me!
Linda
I have been taking Premarin since I was 38. I have tried everything, and nothing helped so I plan on taking it forever. My mom has taken it since she was in her 30s and is 86. I feel great on it. I would love to have the name of the pharmacy in Britain. Medicare has quit paying, and it’s very expensive.
Scarlet
Spartanburg SC
I have taken premarin for over 25 years, .065mg., which I purchase from Northwest Pharmacy in Canada. It is filled and shipped from the UK and is the exact same maroon pill I was buying in the US until the drug company increased the cost outrageously to around $6 per pill.
My doctor writes my prescription for 84 pills which costs me a total of $46, shipping included. At 77 I look much younger, have no aches or pains, am never depressed, have no brain fog, and am very energetic. I tried bio-identical hormones, estradiol, estriol, etc. but nothing works for me but premarin which I plan to continue to take.
Donna
Indiana
I have the feeling that if this were an issue affecting men, there would have been an effective, inexpensive generic years ago.
Patti
Texas
I went through early menopause at around 41 and my doctor wanted me to take Premarin and I took it for a few days. I had varicose veins and it made them hurt really bad. Never been on any estrogen long. I take a couple of 3 mg Boron daily and my libido is great. If you read up on this micro mineral, you will find it supposedly increases menopausal women’s estrogen.
Judy
Seattle. WA
I have taken Premarin .625mg for many years. I am 75 and will not stop this medication. I did try other options for estrogen replacement and none worked as well. I used the People’s Pharmacy website to connect with the Canadian pharmacy site and found I could get it from a Canadian pharmacy for the amount stated by others in the above comments.
However, in talking with the Canadian pharmacy I was going to deal with. they told me I could get it from their Great Britain pharmacy for even less. I have been getting it from the British pharmacy for several years. I get 84 pills shipped for $24.99 including the shipping cost. I actually pay $15.00 for the pills and they charge $9.99 to ship it to me on the west coast of the US. It comes in the original packages from the manufacturer so you know it is the exact same drug. I am eternally grateful to People’s Pharmacy for providing me with the information I needed to save so much money.
This drug is very expensive here in the US, but other countries have the ability to negotiate with drug companies and do so very effectively. The Canadian pharmacy told me Britain’s healthcare system has more negotiating power than the Canadian system and thus the lower price for the drug from them. I comes in about a week from the time I order it.
Donna
York Pa.
Can someone tell me the correct information I need to buy Premarin from the British Pharmacy? I have been on it for about 5 years and my Mom is still on it at 84. The price right now is 157 a month. Too much but I really need to stay on it.
Virginia
Georgia
I too loved my estrogen. It made my life bearable. Post-total hysterectomy at age 42. In my early sixties my PCP insisted I quit due to cancer risk, so I did. What followed was 2 years of Dante’s Inferno from hot flashes, 24-7, and all sorts of old-age symptoms. At age 69 I was diagnosed with breast cancer– no family history. My tumor was estrogen receptor-positive with 98% cell activity, but negative for the progesterone receptor. (I never took progesterone) So, I have to think that the HRT did have an adverse effect on me even though I didn’t want to believe it. Doctors do disagree still on the risks of long-term HRT but in hindsight, I’ll take that extra 25 years of female normalcy even if I have to deal with cancer now! Yes, it’s a battle but I am doing okay.
Shirley
Sacramento, CA
I had breast cancer in 1998, and my regular MD and my cancer surgeon both told me it was from the Premarin and to go off of it at once. I was lucky, as I had Stage 1, and I had them remove the breast. I was in my 60’s and did not need chemo or anything else.
Linda
I agree about the cruel treatment involved in getting the Premarin. I use a bio-identical hormone cream that I get through a compounding pharmacy which my insurance doesn’t cover but it is very affordable (30.00 per month). People really should do research on the cruelty involved with premarin.
Sunshine
California
I’m on the plant-based bioidentical hormones of estradiol and micronized progesterone. My January refill was around $70 for both through Kaiser. I just refilled my prescriptions, and it jumped to $147 (the progesterone price sky-rocketed for some reason). I’m going to check into the cream and the compounding pharmacy at $30. That would be much more affordable. As a horse owner, I too refuse to take the Premarin.
Isabel
I would never, EVER take Premarin. The mares are kept almost permanently pregnant, and live under miserable conditions.
Jane
Norfolk VA
I don’t like that I have to use Premarin but Esradiol does not help with my condition. I have a rectocele (type of vaginal prolapse) that blocks my rectum– the “waste chute” — due to tissue-weakening radiation following surgery for uterine cancer. Premarin cream has strengthened the tissue enough for my body to function normally– without it, I would need a colostomy. I was sad to read all the boasting accounts of youthful appearance and high libidos. These Premarin users enable insurance providers to view Premarin as a cosmetic drug. For many of us, it is a serious medical necessity for which we are deeply grateful.
Sylvia
Waco, TX
Suddenly last month,, the cost of Premarin vaginal cream at Walgreens went from $45.00 to $105.00 (with Humana Advantage Insurance). This was the exact same prescription, prescription number, and for the exact same 30 grams. They also now tell me this is a 90 day supply, when the last tube plainly stated it was for 30 days. I don’t know what it is going to take for action to be taken against Big Pharma, insurance companies, and politicians who line their pockets with money from Big Pharma to the detriment of the very people they are sworn to represent. This is inexcusable and about as immoral as it gets.
Emma
Seattle
I took Premarin for at least 10 years. When I decided to see if I could stop, my Dr prescribed a lower dosage I think twice. It took at least 3 months to do this. And I was fine. I recommend doing a step down process.
Thai
I did the step down process from .9 to .625 to .3 starting in my fifties when the study data began to come out that linked estrogen to cancer. I had no problems. When I finally was taking none I did notice vaginal atrophy, eventually, with painful intercourse.
The Premarin Vaginal Cream is a lifesaver for a 70 year old woman’s ability to have a pain free sex life. It’s $165 with my lame insurance as Medicare doesn’t cover it. I only use it twice a year, worried about possible cancer developing somewhere in my body. Would love to use it all the time! Our drug companies are such a rip off of us older people.
Carol W.
Texas
I’ve been taking compounded estrogen and progesterone for about 30 years (I’m 74) and love them! Dr. says I’m doing so well on them she will not suggest stopping them. Also compounded RX’s are much less costly than what I read about premarin even though most are not covered by insurance.
Barbara
Florida
I, too, had an early menopause (39) and was started on Premarin right away. I took it for several years before I learned how it was made. I stopped taking it right away, as I believe it is wrong to put the mares through near-torture just so women can look and feel younger. My body adjusted in a couple years without Premarin and now 30+ years have gone by. I am 82 now and get compliments that I look much younger, and I feel pretty darn good, too. So, ladies, you too can get by without it if you just hang in there. The mares are kept pregnant and standing in one position so as not to spill urine–this causes them plenty of discomfort, too. Plus the unwanted foals are usually killed right after birth. We humans abuse animals in so many ways.
Judy
Virginia
I switched to Astradiol a number of years ago, and it works for me. I get it without going through Medicare drug plan because they deny it. A major discount store pharmacy has the generic version for $10 for a three-month supply.
Anne
Wisconsin
It’s especially frustrating when there is a drug that works, for something we can’t control, and then we’re at the mercy of these price gouges. I tried Estradiol, and it gave me a yeast infection (a known side effect). I use Premarin cream (probably a third of the tube insert), three times a week, and it makes a HUGE difference. My biggest problem was dryness, and believe me, I tried more than one alternative.
I want to say that I’m also a horse lover and owner. I’d love for someone to come up with an alternative that works. Has anyone tried? Is there any incentive?
For all the complaining about our healthcare in the U.S., prescription drugs seem to be one place where something could be done that would benefit everyone.
Dee
FL
I had a total hysterectomy at age 38 and was put on Premarin and Progesterone both in same month. I was a mess. I wrecked the car by driving backwards thru garage door twice. I quit both cold turkey. I read up on total hysterectomy, and the Medical Digest said not to give progesterone if patient had total hysterectomy because it causes hormonal imbalance. I was depressed, gained weight, etc. I also had hot flashes for 13 years. I decided I had to live with the symptoms and am now 73.
I exercise daily in pool and have been walking for years. I have no bone loss, and people say I look much younger than 73. I am just glad that by not taking the drug I have not had breast cancer. My neighbor took it and was told that the drug it caused her breast cancer. Now that she beaten the cancer, she is left with multiple problems all over her body from taking the drugs that fought the cancer. I will take the hot flashes any day instead of the possibility of breast cancer. You can always take something to strengthen your bones.
Betsy
I agree with you henri
Betty D
Texas
What is the telephone number of the Canadian pharmacy?
Diane
Savannah Georgia
Please Please Please….what is the telephone number of the Canadian Pharmacy in Winter Park Florida that was mentioned by one of your readers.
Henri
San Diego
There is another side to Premarin production. The mares involved in the process are usually draft/quarter horse crosses kept in stalls with collection bags strapped underneath. This industry has no use for colts born to the pregnant mares or mares that no longer become pregnant and they were sold for slaughter. There is a PMU rescue program for adoptions and my three geldings are out of that program. I completely understand the need for HRT that works but thought there should be an understanding of what is involved with animals used by that industry.
Betty D
I totally agree with you
Sandy
I agree. We adopted a poor horse who was used for this drug. She was like a zombie. I know it helps people, but is there anything else?
CAROL
ILLINOIS
I do hope those who comment here read my post. I had a total hysterectomy, at age 39. I was immediately placed on Premarin and took the maroon pills for 18 years. As others have commented, my bones remained strong, my youthful appearance was astonishing, and my energy was amazing. Warnings about potential cancer-related issues surfaced, and my doctor discontinued my prescription. Within two months, my hair turned gray, the tone and elasticity of my skin waned, and I started to have arthritic symptoms.
Within the last 10 years, I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, have had THREE radical spine surgeries, involving 10 vertebrae, and, in 2016, have needed two complete hip replacements. I cannot begin to emphasize the importance of estrogen-replacement therapy. It is, quite literally, a matter of life and death for me now, to be once again able to obtain a prescription for Premarin and actually be able to afford this drug. Without it, my life has been filled with chronic pain and disability. I might add that I am allergic to all opiates, so additional surgeries are life-threatening. Two of the five surgeries have almost taken my life. Good luck to all!
Casey
Sausalito, CA
I had a hysterectomy 20 years ago, and have been taking Premarin .045 mg since that time. Because I haven’t had medical insurance for the last four years, and the cost of Premarin had increased to $365 for 30 pills, I made the unfortunate decision to discontinue taking my medication. Within one month of discontinuing the estrogen, I began having horrible hot flashes (every 45 minutes x 24 hours a day), arthritic pain in my joints (hips, knees, neck, shoulders), feeling nauseous, not sleeping through the night, and feeling ‘old’.
After eight months of discontinuing Premarin, I saw a Nurse Practitioner at a local clinic, and asked about a generic form of Premarin that was less costly. She researched options, and prescribed Estradiol .50 mg. I noticed it took almost three months before the hot flashes and joint aches disappeared completely; however, I no longer have hot flashes, joint aches, or the same ‘aging’ sensations that I had experienced. Estradiol works for me, and it costs $21.00 for 100 pills (at Target).
Norma J M
Kokomo,IN. 46901
I have been on Premarin for 26 years.I have not had any problems with this medication.Without it I prayed to die because of the bad side effects of menopause. I will be going to my Compounding Pharmacy to check prices. I am also on the Testosterone/DHEA cream and Progestrone Cream.
If you take oral estrogen,you should be also on Testosterone Cream. This also helps with dry eyes and upper body strength. All women should take advantage of hormone replacement for longevity and a good healthy life after menopause. I am told I look and feel great at my age of 69 years.
Diane
I’m in the middle of this confusing quandary..I was on HRT, various types for nearly 30 yrs.
after my husband died and I had to be on Medicare, I unknowingly decided to get back on Estreatest or at least Estrace cream…both fine w my doc! HA! Each of those is over $300 at W-greens. In Houston, any Dr who prescribes Bio-Identical does not take insurance and the c
Jackie
Michigan
Just got a prescription for Premarin Vaginal cream to be used for six weeks to help with atrophic vaginitis. Went to pick it up and the pharmacy tech said this is one of the more expensive drugs. I was expecting $68 as the doctor told me that is what it would run. $365 for one tube, called another pharmacy and the same price. This is with my insurance. They offer $20 worth of coverage for this drug. Talk about sticker shock. Going to contact my doctor and request it be filled at a compounding pharmacy and go from there. Couldn’t believe they could possibly charge that much.
Jewel
I think that Premarin is expensive because the Drug is for Women! Period!
If it were for men, I think it would have a generic form by now!
Lisa
CO
I think there is a great deal of false, misleading, exaggerated information about the way horses are treated in order to provide pregnant mare urine. As a beef cattle producer, I can relate to the unethical propaganda used to vilify agricultural producers, so here is just one example of a neutral, factual article about PMU ranching: http://www.thehorse.com/articles/10697/pmu-ranching-use-or-abuse. This article was written a couple of decades ago, and I have no doubt that conditions have only improved in the barns, not degraded. Please don’t believe everything you hear or read about animal abuse. Most likely if it is put out by PETA or similar groups, it is a lie.
If I can afford it, I plan on trying Premarin for my menopausal symptoms. I can’t take estrogen because of a blood clot history, but I understand the cream should not be a problem.
Nancy
Rhode Island
I found this site after searching for an explanation for the sizable jump in the cost of premarin vaginal cream. I contacted Pfizer directly and spoke with a pharmacist who could give no rational explanation and then left a detailed complaint with a consumer representative.
I have also filed a complaint with my pharmacy. (Retail price of one tube: 30 Grams, is $419.00). I am also filing a complaint with Blue Cross and have submitted this story to an investigative arm of NBC.
As an RN and a consumer, I have serious concerns that this is another example of the big pharmaceutical companies targeting a vulnerable population – this one post-menopausal women – and I intend to pursue any effort I can to uncover this.
Marie A.
NY
I totally agree with you. I find myself relying on using Premarin cream externally. My doctor gave me a couple samples (thank goodness). My pharmacy wanted to charge me $268.00 for a 14GM tube. It’s a tier-4 drug with Excellus that has a $360 deductible,so basically full price for me. I found an online pharmacy in Canada that I am getting it from. Hallelujah! for $24.50/14GM tube (for starters).
Gloria
Virginia
Good for you. I applaud your efforts. Drug companies in the USA are being allowed to gouge consumers because of their ties to the government. They support many politicians and so they will not be looked into for this. I buy my Premarin cream from Canada, but even they have increased by almost 100% since I started. 42g was 63.00 almost 10 years ago. Now it’s 120.00.
Beth
Florida
My first prescription for Premarin cream, yesterday, was about $360 with a discount from my insurance. The doctor said it would last 6 months, but I don’t see that. Not sure how I will be able to afford it. Will definitely look into alternatives.
Carlee
Florida
This is a DO or DIE situation! Been on Premarin & Medroxyprogesterone Combo for 30 years. I still have my uterus. I thank God and my specialist who put me on Premarin 1.25 25 days during the month and then (10) days along with Medroxyprogesterone 10 mg., then 5 days a period. I was told I could take it forever.
Now am 72 yrs old but you would never know it. I look in my 50’s. No menopause. I believe it is “CRIMINAL” for doctors and drug companies to tell us to get OFF this miracle combo. They want us to literally crumble up and die!? They are trying to “kill” us by making Premarin so expensive.. I have NO porous bones, no arthritis, mo joints pains, great cardio, NO night sweats, hot flashes, headaches, and a great libido! Breasts are still plump. Stopped taking the drug for 1 month, and my breasts flattened like pancakes. I fell into deep depression, had hot flashes & pain and had no energy. I immediately started taking Premarin again, and I will NEVER STOP! In just a few days I felt young and alive, again.
Do the drug companies think we’re living too long and not getting any fractured bones or other illnesses? Will someone please stop them from keeping this life-giving medication from us or having it cost so much that we can’t afford it, and our Insurance Companies don’t want to cover the cost. This is INHUMANE. WHY DOES MEDICARE WANT TO KILL US? THERE MUST BE A WAY FOR US WOMEN TO STAY HEALTHY. DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE WE CAN CONTINUE TO BUY PREMARIN AND MEDROXYPROGESTERONE?? I am poor and have been getting it under my Insurance for $7.00 per 3 month supply. I totally believe my life will be over without it. My supply will run out soon, then you can write my death certificate!
Tam
PA
well I just called walmart Premarin without insurance $800 this is ridiculous and my insurance is throwing a fit and won’t pay for it …
Barbara
Cape May, NJ
I use a mail order pharmacy for my prescriptions. When I called them Monday to get my Premarin tablets, they quoted a 90-day supply at $380. I decided to try a Canadian pharmacy TotalCareMart which my husband uses. The cost for the brand is only $84 for 84 tablets and is shipped from England.
The generic is only about $30 and comes from India. TotalCareMart is located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. You can get all the information online. You have to send in a written prescription and pay by check. It takes about 4-6 weeks to get your drugs because of all the shipping, but is well worth the enormous cost saving! My doctor totally approves of using this Canadian pharmacy.
Paige
Dude it’s inhuman how they make this drug! Read up on how this drug is made and tell me if you think the cost is the inhuman part. There is a synthetic version of this you can use that doesn’t slaughter horses. THAT would be human, why don’t you do some research and give it a try.
Diane
California
I have used Premarin Vaginal Cream, 1gm per dose, twice a week for several years. I had been paying $35 thru my Drug Plan.
However yesterday I go to pick it up and the pharmacy assistant says the price has gone up to $158! To make things worse, she announced that the 30 gm tube of Premarin Creme is a 90 day supply! Whaaat??? I am floored! That is totally false!
I always keep track of how many doses I get for each tube by making a mark on the box every time I use it. The result is I get an average of 19 doses per 30 gm tube. Adding to the problem is that my experiences with Premarin Vaginal Cream is that there are always AIR POCKETS in the tube! Everything is ok until I use about half or 2/3 of the tube. The next time I squeeze the tube, NOTHING COMES OUT! I looked down into the Premarin tube and saw nothing, just an empty hole!. I screwed the tube back onto the applicator and continue squeezing the tube—nothing comes out! The tube is getting flatter and flatter as I squeeze it, and the applicator now has the air that was in the Premarin tube mixed with the creme, making it very difficult to use. When the air pocket in the cream tube expels into the application, I find that I have only one or two doses left in the tube!
This is so unfair especially due to the high price. The pharmacist said I should talk to my Drug Plan about the situation—and I did. That person set the price at $35 per tube; that lasted for only 2 months. Now when I try to refill, the price is $158 and is considered to be a 3-month supply (when in fact it lasts me only a little over one month). I am astonished also because I checked with my Drug Plan recently, and they said the price is set at $35! But the pharmacy insists it is $158. What to do???
Richard
Mexico
The medication ESTROGENOS CREMA is a generic vaginal version of Premarin sold in Mexico. It costs $279 pesos (25% less on Mondays) at any Farmacia Similaires. The Farmaica Similaires outlets are everywhere in Mexico, every decent sized town has one. You can get a tube of it (43grams) for less than $15 US (on Mondays) If you ever come down here, stock up..
The cost of many medications in the USA or Canada is nothing short of pure theft.
Nancy
SC
How can I contact a Mexican pharmacy?
Judy
Indiana
I have been on premarin. 625 for 16 years, since my hysterectomy. I refuse to pay the cost of it any longer so I now have a prescription for estradiol .1 which I will start taking in 2 weeks when I run out of premarin. If anyone is interested in my opinion of the positives and negatives let me know how to post results and I’ll let you know in a few months. Thanks
Shirl,
Dothan, Alabama
Live in Dothan, Al.
Just got shocked, took prescription to Walmart and they said, that will be $181.00, I paid it but thought they made a mistake, called Walgreens n theirs is $200.90 Crazy Too High Prices!!!
Cheryl
Missouri
I would like to know what you think of the estradiol.
Diana
Midwest USA
Having had a complete hysterectomy in my late 30’s due to endometriosis, I’ve been on estrogen ever since, although a lower dose as I’ve gotten older. I went from Premarin to Estradiol years ago and get the same benefit from it.
I refused to continue to take Premarin once I found out the inhumane way horses were treated in the manufacture of it. I’m fortunate to have medical insurance to cover it with a small deductible. I’m 71 and still sexually active with my husband. People say I look like I’m in my 50’s, which I attribute to the estrogen, as well as never smoking nor suntanning (I use a self-tanning lotion).
Paige
Because you Diana, are a good person, congrats on making the right choice. Hope you feel amazing and feel super good knowing you fixed your issue without abusing animals. Wish more people were like you!
Kelly
FL
I would love the name of an oral product that works as well as Premarin 1.25. I was shocked to find out how it is made. I love horses. I feel so bad. I tried estradiol 2 mg, and it didn’t touch the hot flashes. I welcome any ideas. Thank you
Sara
Seattle, WA
I have used Estrace vaginal cream for years. It was always expensive, but now a small tube costs over $265!! And that’s with insurance. I have found that Hyalofemme creme, made in the UK and available on amazon, does definitely help me use far less of the expensive Estrace cream. The Hyalofemme gel is more like normal vaginal moisture and seems to repair tissue damage in there. I use that every day and every few days use some Estrace. I think it’s outrageous the way they’ve jacked up the price of Estrace, because they can.
Karen
Washington
Why are you all taking Premarin instead of the more natural product Estradiol.?
This product is generic and is on some drug store $4 generic programs (30 day supply). Estradiol also comes in a transdermal patch form allowing exposure to far lower levels of estrogen and lessens the risk for breast cancer.
Paige
Thank you, and it it’s plant based so no animals are murdered for it!! Yay, win win!
Yvonne
Idaho
Bioidentical hormones from a compounding pharmacy are cheaper, identical to our own human hormones (unlike premarin) and are made without inhumane treatment of mares. There is really no reason to use Premarin, when better alternative exists.
Paige
Yassssss!! Love this comment! Why aren’t more people researched on how awful their drugs are and how simply you can be a better person without sacrificing anything ?
Diane
Can’t get them in Houston unless you sell-pay for the appt which is $500. My reg doc refuses to write a scrip for compounded hormones.
Diane
Houston,TX
I didn’t get to finish my comment.
If anyone has found a source…
Canadian, Mexican, Indian or Venus?…
Please share!!
Mojo needed ASAP!!!
Medicare is ready to let us literally dry up and blow away!
Thanks!
Diane
HoustonTX
You still need a prescription!
Laura
FL
Picture a row of Canadian pregnant mares wearing urine collection bags, kept dehydrated for concentrated urine hormones…what happens to their foals? They
are just a byproduct headed for slaughter. I have had great results with bio-identical hormones from my local compounding pharmacy. You do have a choice. And by the way, I never feel the impulse to whinny!
Mary
St. Louis
And these are what & where?
JAS
And I would like to add a “wake up call” alot of my “sisters” out there who are having a hard time mentally dealing with the fact that they are all getting “old” and their youth and beauty are fading…. “Do not look upon ‘getting older’ as a curse…. as many do not get this privilege.”
Diane
Oh, please. The flip side is since we did get this privilege, we’d simply like to feel as good as we can. I’m not ok with the downsides of a premature hysterectomy, 30 years ago.
I’m beating the bushes for affordable options! Western med, Big Pharma and Medicare can take a leap!
KM
WA
Thank you! I am really tired of all the ways big business and big pharma try to convince us women we need to be and feel 20 forever. Try checking out your diet thoroughly (!), and read a book or two by Dr Christianne Northrup. I am getting older gracefully and ignoring those who ignore me because of my (beautiful) grey hair. p.s. I also look younger than my 60 years!
Joye
Florida
I use Premarin Vaginal Cream and I tried the Canadian product. Even though it is made by Pfizer (same as the US product) it has a rose-scent to it which was very unpleasant to me. It was quite a bit less expensive, but I just didn’t like the smell. Otherwise, it was the same strength, etc.
mkb
HI
Surprised People’s Pharmacy would suggest using synthetic hormones. (I realize you suggested alternatives.) I too have the dryness issues but can’t bring myself to use Premarin. The side effects, especially long term, seem to outweigh the positives. I’ve been told by the doc that the risks are minimal. Of course, until you research possible side effects: breast cancer, strokes, blood clots in lungs.
Ann
I am amazed that all these people are on Premarin and I am so jealous! My family physician AND neurologist ordered me to stop that drug. I am 85(!) and had been on it for years following a total hysterectomy in my 40s. So I have had sweating spells every 30 minutes for the past 4 months. Again, jealous!
Frances
NC
I had a total hysterectomy in the 80s. I took Premarin until 2014. The insurance company and the doctor gave me a hassle, especially insurance company. I am now on estradiol which does not work half as good as Premarin. Now I deal with hot flashes and mood swings. I want to cry a lot. The doctor, male, tried to tell me that if I was off of it for a year my body would adjust, and my hot flashes would go away. I wish these male “experts” had to deal with it for one month and see what they would say. Also, my ins. company, Humana, said Premarin cream worked just as well. I thought we paid ins. premiums for help. Would love to be back on Premarin.
Margaret
St. Louis, MO
I was physically miserable following a total hysterectomy. I’d been determined to do without prescription hormones, but after several months of a variety of problems, I chose to go on an estrogen patch. After a couple years of use, I developed a contact sensitivity to the patches. My GYN prescribed an estradiol gel (applied to the forearm) that worked effectively without causing the rashes and sores that accompanied the patch.
After several years of estradiol gel use, I decided to wean myself. And to my relief, many of the reasons that I’d sought a hormone replacement–headaches, hot flashes, more than my fair share of irritability–did not return. But when I appeared at my primary care doctor’s for my annual exam, I reported a host of new problems, all of which I associated with aging. I’d developed impressive dermatitis seborrhea on my scalp which my dermatologist was treating with a steroidal cream. I was experiencing some vaginal bleeding with intercourse, and lubricants were not effective. I had developed an extremely painful dry eye condition that required daily treatment with Restasis. And I was experiencing frequent pain upon urination without any UTIs to account for that.
My perceptive primary care doctor suggested that all of my new conditions could be due to dryness of one sort or another and recommended that I resume the use of estradiol gel. I did so, and all the conditions either improved dramatically or resolved. I no longer have need of the steroidal cream or Restasis.
However, like Premarin, EstroGel is absurdly expensive and not covered by my Medicare prescription policy.
Eileen
New York
I took Premarin after my hysterectomy for about 6 or 7 years and due to the high cost, tried Estradiol and another synthetic version that I can’t recall the name of. I had an allergic reaction (itching and rash) from the Estradiol in both patch and oral form. Finally, after hearing all the negative reports of taking the drug, I decided to wean myself off over several weeks. I have never regretted doing this since I feel fine and it has now been almost 4 years with no ill effects. My menstrual migraines that I had my entire life finally became non-existent except for occasional weather-related headaches. Perhaps my healthy diet which includes much protein, limited alcohol, a daily multivitamin and super B-complex and Vitamin D are enough to help. I even eliminated gluten. I don’t even have trouble sleeping. I’m happy I was able to eliminate this drug.
Nebraskanan
I see a female doc and don’t get much support from her either. I am sure when she is my age she will be much more sympathetic! She told me my body should adjust in in few months. Guess what?? It’s been over a year and I am still getting hot flashes, night sweats, and I am a raving lunatic. Plus, my vagina is so dry, I swear it will shrivel up and fall out soon!
Marsha
Indiana
I take a conjugated capsule from Womens international pharmacy in Wisconsin. You get 2 capsules a day. It’s 200 for 90 days. I take one capsule a day because of the possible health issues and the cost. Since I take one capsule a day, the 90 day supply lasts me for 180 days. My costs then are about $400. per year, about 33.33 per month. It is 0.125 mg estrone, 0.125 estradiol, 1 mg estriol, and 50 mg progesterone. Even taking one pill a day I have no hot flashes and it helps my moods tremendously.
Carrie
My mother was taken off Premarin after eight years because of the risk of cancer, dementia, heart problems, etc. She only used it until she was past menopause. She used Replens instead to help with a few issues and is doing just fine without the health risk. Premarin is not what you think.
To learn why big pharma (in this case Wyeth) is not only ripping off women financially, but also treating horses inhumanely, google The HRT Horses, NBC Dateline. It’s hard to watch and listen to, but it’s true.
I grew up around horses. I love them, and the thought of mares being kept pregnant and languishing away year after year for all but a few hours a day, with a catheter in them to collect urine (and not being allowed to even lie down) really bothers me. Some young foals that are female are used for the same horrible purpose. You can guess what happens to the babies and also to the females when they are no longer well enough to be used for this awful purpose. Either adoption (for the few lucky ones) or being slaughtered. Wyeth is ripping women off and treating horses very badly, just for the billions they make each year with Premarin. To me, this is heartless and unsafe for women as well.
So I feel good about not paying huge prices to big pharma (Wyeth) for Premarin, and I feel even better about not contributing in any way to what I consider grossly inhumane treatment of horses. It’s as bad as the dog farms in Asia who cram dogs into wire crates and kill them for their fur. I hope you’ll watch the video. And I hope you’ll do a little research about how Premarin can affect your own health.
Christina
Kirkland, WA
I have refused to take Permarin because the mares used to obtain the urine are abused, in my
opinion. My compounding pharmacist makes me an vaginal cream made from estradiol, a plant-based estrogen. I have used it for years and it is very effective.
Janet
Alexandria, Va
I don’t understand why the need to take Premarin considering the cost and the fact that the methods to obtain it (to my knowledge) are inhumane. I took Estrace for many years, it is generic for about $4.00 a month and more closely matches human estrogen (to my knowledge). If you need progestrogen, that can be added, and it too is generic.
Claire Smith
Austin, TX
I’ve wondered how the price of a drug this old can keep going up. Why can’t a competitive company duplicate it, thus allowing market forces to drive the price down?Because of the high price, I am now forced to buy an alternative pill, and this article just made me realize why I now tire so easily. Canada, here I come!
Diane
I think you’ll find it’s not $4 a mo any longer!
Janet
Alexandria, va
I’m still on it (Estrace), and it still is.
Anne
Wisconsin
I have horses, and there’s a constant controversy over Premarin. I do wish they’d come up with something else because I hate seeing any animal confined. I think a lot of foals are slaughtered in the process, as well. It’s a nasty business.
But, I also use Premarin. I use the vaginal cream twice a week, and it makes a huge difference for me and my husband. Without it, intercourse is extremely uncomfortable to painful. We’ve tried lots of different lubricants, and they don’t help. If I could find something else that works, I’d do it in a minute.
On the other hand, if I knew paying more was actually helping research for a good alternative, I’d be happy to pay more. Unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case.
Mary
I have seen some say that Vitamin E can help with vaginal dryness. It might be worth a try.
Not the artificial stuff, though.
D
US
Its because it’s made by Pfizer and they screw everyone if they get a chance and have been in trouble several times for making claims about drugs that are not true. I know I worked for them for 21 years. The tablets presses can crank out thousands of tablets per minute and the active ingredients are not that expensive. If there is anywhere we need government intervention. It is with the price of drugs.
Paige
If you have horses I’m not sure how you can stomach this. There’s a generic plant based option.
Phoebe
Took various versions of estrogen as long as I could. Began to have some health issues from it so now, instead, I alternate DHEA for a couple of weeks with Siberian ginseng (eleuthero) for a couple of weeks. Has the advantage of not requiring a prescription.