Estradiol

Generic Name: Estradiol - Transdermal Weekly (ess-truh-DYE-all)
Typical Brand Name(s): Climara

Warning
Estradiol has been reported to increase the chance of womb (endometrial) cancer in women who have been through menopause. This risk appears to depend on the length of time this drug is used and the amount of estrogen per dose. If you use Estradiol for an extended period, you should be evaluated at least every 6 months. If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, notify your doctor promptly. Estradiol is not effective in preventing or treating a tendency to lose a fetus (natural habitual abortion) nor the threat of losing a fetus. Estradiol must not be used during pregnancy because its use may result in birth defects or cancer later in the child's life. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, consult your doctor immediately to discuss the risk to the fetus.

Most important fact about this Drug
Estrogens are hormones used for replacement in women who are no longer producing proper amounts. Estradiol is used to treat symptoms associated with menopause, to prevent bone weakening (osteoporosis) and for certain conditions in which hormone levels are low.

Are There Possible Side Effects?
Estradiol may cause dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, stomach upset, bloating, or nausea. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience:

• Severe Depression
• Pain in the groin
• severe pain in the calf
• sudden severe headache
• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• lumps in the breast
• weakness or tingling in the arm or leg
• yellowing of the eyes or skin

What special precautions should I follow?
Before you use Estradiol, tell your doctor your entire medical history, including: family medical history (especially breast lumps and cancer); high blood pressure; diabetes; asthma; epilepsy (seizures); migraine headaches; liver disease, heart disease, kidney disease; depression; toxemia (high blood pressure during pregnancy); jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) during pregnancy; excessive weight gain and fluid retention (bloating) during the menstrual cycle; uterine fibroid tumors, any allergies. Depending on strength, Estradiol may cause a patchy, darkening of the skin on the face (melasma). Higher strengths are more likely to cause melasma. Sunlight may intensify this darkening and you may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps. Consult your doctor regarding use of sunscreens and protective clothing. Before having surgery, tell the doctor that you use Estradiol. Do not use Estradiol if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using Estradiol, stop using it and contact your doctor. Estradiol may cause fetal harm. Cigarette smoking can increase the chance of blood clots while using Estradiol (especially in women past the age of 35).

What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially:
seizure drugs, barbiturates, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), cimetidine, rifampin, thyroid. This product can affect the results of certain lab tests. Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctors know you use Estradiol. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose
If overdose is suspected, remove the patch. Contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

What If I Miss A Dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

How Should It Be Stored?
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.

Anything Else I Should Know?
If the area around the patch becomes red, itchy or irritated, try a new site. If the irritation continues or becomes worse, notify your doctor.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.