Novofem HRT Tablets

What is Novofem?

Novofem tablets are a combination of HRT (hormone replacement therapy).

Women who do not have a period for six months who have a uterus can take Novofem to treat symptoms of menopause and prevent osteoporosis.

Combination or sequential HRT treatments are given every day without a break (also known as cyclical HRT). Their active ingredients mimic the two female sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, in order to relieve menopausal symptoms.

What is Novofem used for?

Novofem tablets are used to treat menopausal symptoms.

The sex hormone estrogen is particularly significant for females. A woman's oestrogen level drops during the menopause, which can lead to unwanted symptoms.

Novofem can help to alleviate these symptoms so that you can continue to enjoy your daily life.

Menopausal symptoms Novofem can help with

Every female experiences the menopause differently, so what you experience may differ a lot from someone else's. While most women experience some typical menopause symptoms, the severity of these symptoms can vary greatly.

Symptoms of menopause include:

• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Disturbed sleep and insomnia
• Fatigue
• Reduced sex drive
• Difficulty remembering or concentrating
• Vaginal dryness
• Headaches
• Low mood or depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Bloating and digestive problems
• Weight gain
• Joint pain
• Muscle tension and tightness
• Fragile bones (osteoporosis)

Taking Novofem during menopause can help to relieve these symptoms of menopause.

How does Novofem work?

In Novofem, there are both red and white tablets that include oestrogen and progesterone, which act in a similar manner to your naturally occurring sex hormones.

Each of the red and white tablets contains a substance known as estradiol, which is the same chemical compound as the naturally occurring oestrogen in the body. The white Novofem tablets also include a synthetic form of progesterone called Norethisterone acetate.

The ingredients in Novofem simulate the natural menstrual cycle of premenopausal women to help alleviate symptoms, as with other combined, sequential HRT.

Every Novofem pack comes with a red tablet containing only estradiol taken for the first 16 days. During the next 12 days, you will take a white tablet containing both estradiol and norethisterone acetate.

At the beginning of each new pack, most women experience a bleed similar to a period.

Novofem and weight gain

It has been reported that Novofem can cause weight gain. However, there is evidence to suggest that it is more likely to be fluid retention and bloating than additional weight gain.

Women who are entering menopause are likely to gain weight, particularly around their midsection. There are theories that suggest this is caused partly by hormonal imbalances, but also by the natural loss of muscle mass and the slowing down of metabolism that comes with aging for both males and females.

In order to avoid unwanted weight gain as you get older, it is essential that you always get enough sleep, eat healthily, and exercise regularly.

Novofem and depression

Novofem vs Elleste Duet

Novofem dosage

Novofem should be taken with water at the same time every day.

Days 1 - 16: Take 1 red tablet once a day

Days 17 - 28: Take 1 white tablet once a day

Novofem tablets are for oral use only and should only be taken by women with a uterus.

Novofem should be taken continuously without interruption. As soon as you are finished with your pack, start another one the next day.

Novofem side effects

Some people may experience side effects while taking Novofem, as with any other medication. Novofem side effects are relatively rare and generally mild, so you generally don't have to worry about experiencing any if you take it.

As with other hormonal treatments, Novofem may increase your chances of developing certain diseases. Make sure you are familiar with all the warnings and precautions. Before taking this medicine, talk to your doctor if you have any questions.

The most commonly reported side effects associated with Novofem are:

• Headache and migraines
• Breast tenderness
• Vaginal thrush & vaginal bleeding (unexplained vaginal bleeding or breakthrough bleeding)
• Dizziness & sleeplessness
• Indigestion, abdominal pain, wind
• Nausea & vomiting
• Rashes & itching
• Swelling of the hands, ankles and feet and muscle cramps
• Weight gain
• Changes in libido
• Hair loss
• Muscle cramps
• Depression

If you are concerned about any of the side effects we have listed above or they are bothering you, please speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice.

If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction when taking Novofem, you must seek medical advice from your doctor immediately.

You must also attend your nearest emergency department as soon as possible.

Novofem warnings

Novofem and cancer

Novofem and breast cancer

As you take HRT longer, your risk of developing breast cancer appears to increase. However, your risk returns to normal five years after you stop taking the treatment.

Due to this, it is recommended that you take HRT for the shortest amount of time possible to manage your symptoms.

Novofem and circulation

Novofem in pregnancy & breastfeeding

Novofem is only appropriate for menopausal women and is not a contraceptive. It is recommended that you discuss contraception with your doctor if you had a period in the last 12 months or are under the age of 50.

Novofem should be stopped immediately if you become pregnant while taking it. Taking Novofem while breastfeeding is also not recommended.

Documentation