Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This medication is a hormone, specifically estrogen, that is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream. It is prescribed to women to alleviate a particular symptom of menopause—hot flashes. Some brands of this medication may also be effective in reducing vaginal symptoms associated with menopause, such as vaginal dryness, burning, and itching. These symptoms arise due to the body producing less estrogen during menopause.
Uses and Dosage
If you are using the pump for the first time, follow the instructions for priming it.
Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Apply it to clean, dry skin on the upper arm or shoulder area, typically once daily. For some brands, application may extend from the wrist to the shoulder, so follow the specific directions for your brand. Avoid applying the medication to broken or irritated skin and refrain from applying it to the breast, face, or in or around the vagina. Ensure that others do not apply this medication to your body.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or use the medication more frequently than instructed.
After each use, replace the cap on the pump. Following application, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to minimize the risk of unintentional transfer to others. Allow about 5 minutes for the application site to completely dry before dressing. Cover the site with clothing, such as a long-sleeve shirt, to prevent others from coming into contact with the medication. Wait at least 1 to 2 hours (depending on your brand) before allowing others to touch the skin where the medication was applied. If accidental contact occurs within 1 to 2 hours, prompt washing with soap and water is advised.
For optimal absorption, wait at least 2 hours before showering or swimming.
Use this medication consistently to derive the maximum benefit. To aid in remembering, apply it at the same time each day.
Avoid contact with the eyes, and if the medication enters the eyes, rinse them immediately with warm water. Report any eye irritation to your doctor.
This medication is flammable until dry. Ensure the gel has dried before smoking or being near an open flame.
Familiarize yourself with the number of doses the gel pump delivers. Keep track of the doses used and discard the pump after completing all doses, even if there is residual gel in the pump.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- acne
- breast pain
- darkening of the skin
- decreased interest in sexual activity
- fatigue
- fluid retention
- hair loss
- irritability
- migraine headaches
- nausea
- nervousness
- stomach cramps and bloating
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- abdominal tenderness, or persistent upper abdominal pain
- breast lumps
- changes in menstrual periods
- increased blood pressure
- nausea
- problems wearing contact lenses
- unexpected vaginal bleeding
- vaginal itching or discharge
- vomiting
Caution
- Before using estradiol, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, including to estradiol itself, or if you have other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may also trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, certain cancers, blood clots, stroke, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, a family history of certain medical conditions, a family or personal history of a specific swelling disorder (angioedema), blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, obesity, lupus, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), mineral imbalances, a certain hormone problem (hypoparathyroidism), uterus problems, gallbladder disease, asthma, seizures, migraine headaches, mental/mood disorders, or a certain blood disorder (porphyria).
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco while using estradiol, as combining estrogens with smoking increases the risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, particularly in women older than 35.
- Inform your doctor if you have recently had or will be having surgery or if you will be immobile for an extended period (such as during a long plane flight). These conditions elevate the risk of blood clots, especially when using estrogen products. You may need to discontinue this medication temporarily or take special precautions.
- Estradiol may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma), and sunlight can worsen this effect. Limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and wear protective clothing outdoors. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the use of sunscreen with this medication, as sunscreen application on the skin may affect its absorption.
- If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, you may experience vision problems or difficulty wearing your contact lenses. Contact your eye doctor if these issues arise.
- This product is not intended for use in children. Children may accidentally come into contact with this medication by touching someone on the treated area, resulting in unwanted side effects. Children should avoid contact with any unclothed area where the medication has been applied. Notify the doctor promptly if you observe unexpected signs of puberty in a child, such as an increase in breast or nipple size.
- Estradiol should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor immediately.
- This medication passes into breast milk and may reduce the quantity and quality of breast milk produced. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Estrogel Gel is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Estrogel Gel gel:
- 0.06 %
FAQ
How long does it take to feel the effects of Estrogel?
Estrogel works in the same way as other types of HRT. You might notice a change within the first few days or weeks, although it’s common to need a few months to see the full effect of treatment.
Does Estrogel cause weight gain?
There’s little evidence that most types of HRT make you put on weight. You may gain some weight during the menopause and as you get older, but this often happens whether you take HRT or not.
Resources
- https://www.onstella.com/the-latest/hrt/how-long-does-it-take-for-hrt-to-work/#:~:text=Oestrogen%20gel%2C%20also%20known%20as,the%20full%20effect%20of%20treatment
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/side-effects-of-hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/#:~:text=There%27s%20little%20evidence%20that%20most,you%20to%20manage%20your%20weight
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/estrogel#adverseeffects
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/estradiol-gel-transdermal
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-89430/estrogel-transdermal/details
- https://www.drugs.com/estrogel.html
