estradiol (topical) Health Article

Generic name(s):

estradiol (topical)

Brand name(s):

estradiol topical, Estrace Vaginal Cream, Estring

What is the most important information I should know about estradiol?

Estradiol increases the risk of developing a condition (endometrial hyperplasia) that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus. Taking progestins, another hormone drug, while using estradiol lowers the risk of developing this condition. Therefore, if your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take together while using estradiol. Visit your doctor regularly and report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away.

Treatment with estradiol long-term may increase the risk of stroke. Because of this risk, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss your individual risks and benefits before taking estradiol long-term. You should also talk to your doctor or healthcare provider on a regular basis (for example, every 3-6 months) about whether you should continue this treatment.

Have yearly physical exams and examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using estradiol.

Do not use this medication if you are pregnant.

The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study reported increased risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, invasive breast cancer, pulmonary emboli, and deep vein thrombosis in postmenopausal women (50-79 years of age) during 5 years of treatment with oral conjugated estrogens combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate.

The Women's Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS) found that postmenopausal women 65 years of age or older who were treated with oral conjugated estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone acetate had an increased risk of developing dementia. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women or to women using estrogen only therapy.

What is estradiol?

Estradiol (a form of estrogen) is a female sex hormone necessary for many processes in the body. Estradiol vaginal products release estrogen that is absorbed directly through the skin of the vaginal wall.

Estradiol topical is used to treat certain symptoms of menopause such as dryness, burning, and itching of the vaginal area and urgency or irritation with urination.

Estradiol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using estradiol?

Do not use estradiol without first talking to your doctor if you have

• a circulation, bleeding, or blood-clotting disorder;

• undiagnosed, abnormal vaginal bleeding; or

• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer.

Using estradiol may be dangerous in some cases if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Before using estradiol, tell your doctor if you have

• high blood pressure, angina, or heart disease;

• high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in your blood;

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;

• asthma;

• epilepsy;

• migraines;

• diabetes;

• depression;

• gallbladder disease;

• uterine fibroids;

• had a hysterectomy (uterus removed);

• a narrow, short, or prolapsed vagina;

• vaginal irritation; or

• a vaginal infection.

You may not be able to use estradiol, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Treatment with estradiol long-term may increase the risk of stroke. Because of this risk, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss your individual risks and benefits before taking estradiol long-term. You should also talk to your doctor or healthcare provider on a regular basis (for example, every 3-6 months) about whether you should continue this treatment.

The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study reported increased risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, invasive breast cancer, pulmonary emboli, and deep vein thrombosis in postmenopausal women (50-79 years of age) during 5 years of treatment with oral conjugated estrogens combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate.

The Women's Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS) found that postmenopausal women 65 years of age or older who were treated with oral conjugated estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone acetate had an increased risk of developing dementia. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women or to women using estrogen only therapy.

Estradiol is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that estradiol will cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use estradiol if you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy. Estradiol may decrease milk flow and have other effects on milk composition. Do not use estradiol without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.