Drug
Estradiol
Pronounced
"ES-tra-DYE-ol"
Uses
This medication is a hormone (estrogen). It is absorbed through the skin and enters into the bloodstream. It is used by women to help reduce a certain symptom of menopause (hot flashes). Symptoms of menopause are caused by the body making less estrogen. If you are using estrogens to treat only vaginal symptoms of menopause (such as vaginal dryness/burning/itching), products applied directly inside the vagina should be considered before medications that are taken by mouth, absorbed through the skin, or injected.
Warning
Estrogens may increase the risk of cancer of the uterus (endometrial cancer). If you have a uterus, ask your doctor if taking a progestin can help decrease your risk. Tell your doctor right away if you have any unusual vaginal bleeding.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
Certain estrogen products may also be prescribed for bone loss (osteoporosis) in women after menopause. However, there are other medications (such as raloxifene, bisphosphonates including alendronate) that are also effective in preventing bone loss and may be safer. These medications should be considered for use before estrogen treatment.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Learn how to apply the gel correctly. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Apply the medication to clean, dry skin on the upper thigh area as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Switch between the right and left thigh with each application. Avoid applying this medication to broken, irritated skin. Do not apply this medication to the breast, face, or in or around the vagina. Do not let others apply this medication to your body.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this medication more often than prescribed.
After applying this medication, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of accidentally spreading it from your hands to other people. Wait a few minutes for the application site to dry completely before dressing. Cover the application site with clothing (such as shorts or pants) to prevent others from touching the application area and being exposed to the drug. Wait at least 1 hour before allowing others to touch the skin where the medication was applied. If someone accidentally touches the gel (or the application area within 1 hour), have them wash the area of contact on their body with soap and water as soon as possible.
To get the best effect, wait at least 1 hour before showering/swimming to allow the drug to be absorbed through the skin.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
Avoid getting this medication in the eyes. If this medication gets in the eyes, rinse them right away with warm water. Tell your doctor if you get any eye irritation.
This medication is flammable until dry. Avoid smoking or being near open flames while using the medication and until the medication has dried.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.