Estrogel (Estradiol)

Additional information

Estrogel (Estradiol) is typically applied on a cyclic schedule from day 1 to 25 of each calendar month, or from day 1 to day 21 of a 28-day cycle. The recommended starting dose is 2.5 g daily (2 pumps). However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. If you forget a dose, contact your pharmacist. With each new container of gel, you must get the pump ready. To do this, remove the cover and firmly press the top of the dispenser twice. Discard this gel by rinsing your hand or placing it into a garbage container that cannot be accessed by pets or others in the household. The pump is specially designed to deliver a set amount of medication in each press. To obtain a daily dose, press firmly on the pump to dispense the dose of the gel into the palm of your hand. Using your hands, apply all of the gel in a thin, uniform layer over a large area of clean, dry skin. It is recommended to apply the contents of one pump press of the gel to the outside of one arm from wrist to shoulder. Other recommended areas of application are the abdomen or inner thighs. If your dose is 2 pump presses, then repeat the process and apply the contents of the second press to the other arm. Allow the gel to dry for approximately 2 minutes before covering it with clothing. Wash your hands when you are finished. Do not apply the gel to the breasts, face, or to irritated or damaged skin.
WARNING: This medication should be used at the lowest dose that relieves your menopausal symptoms for the shortest time period possible. You should not use estrogens with or without progestins (other hormonal agents) to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes. Some women taking Estrogel (Estradiol) have reported increased blood pressure. Your doctor should monitor your blood pressure if you are using estrogen, especially if high doses are used. Estrogens can cause changes in blood glucose (blood sugar) control for people who have diabetes or have risk factors for developing diabetes. Use with caution. In addition to its desired action, Estrogel (Estradiol) may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause nausea, fatigue, or stomach cramps
It may cause bloating, swelling, breast pain or tenderness, headache, migraines, or hair loss
It may cause darkening of the skin, nervousness, or irritability Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to estradiol or any component of the formulation. Do not use if you: are or may be pregnant or breastfeeding, experience migraines that are accompanied by a visual aura or disturbance, have active phlebitis (inflamed varicose veins), have heart disease or have had a stroke, have had breast or endometrial cancer, except in special circumstances, have liver dysfunction or disease, have or have had blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis), lungs (pulmonary embolism), or heart (heart attack), have partial or complete loss of vision, or double vision from eye disease related to circulation problems, have unusual vaginal bleeding and have not consulted a doctor about it, or have excessive growth of tissue in the uterus. Taking Estrogel (Estradiol) during pregnancy is contraindicated and harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor. A treatment with Estrogel (Estradiol) requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Estrogel (Estradiol)