Estrogen patches

Generic name: Estradiol

What are Estrogen patches?

Estrogen patches are used to reduce symptoms of menopause, including feelings of warmth in the face, neck, and chest; the sudden intense episodes of heat and sweating known as hot flashes; dry, itchy external genitals; and vaginal irritation. They are also prescribed for other conditions that cause low levels of estrogen, and some doctors prescribe them for teenagers who fail to mature at the usual rate. Certain estrogen patches are also prescribed to help prevent osteoporosis.

What is the most important information I should know about Estrogen patches?

Because estrogens have been linked with an increased risk of breast, uterine, and endometrial cancer (cancer in the lining of the uterus), it is essential to have regular mammograms and checkups. Report any unusual vaginal bleeding to your doctor immediately.

Hormone replacement therapy using estrogens, with or without progestin, should not be used to prevent heart disease. Recent studies have confirmed an increased rate of heart attack, stroke, and dangerous blood clots among women taking estrogen or estrogen combinations for 5 years. Blood clots can lead to phlebitis, stroke, heart attack, a loss of blood supply to the lungs, a blockage in the blood vessels serving the eye, and other serious disorders. Because of these risks, hormone replacement therapy should be given at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Your doctor will determine the dosage that is best for you.

Contact your doctor right away if you notice any of the following symptoms: abdominal pain, tenderness, or swelling; abnormal bleeding of the vagina; breast lumps; coughing up blood; difficulty with speech; pain in your chest or calves; severe headache, dizziness, or faintness; skin irritation, redness, or rash; sudden shortness of breath; vision changes; weakness or numbness of an arm or leg; or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Who should not use Estrogen patches?

Estrogen patches should not be used during pregnancy. You should also avoid this product if you have any of the following: unexplained vaginal bleeding; known or suspected breast cancer; any type of tumor stimulated by estrogen; phlebitis; blood clots in the lung; a clotting disorder; active or recent (within the last year) heart disease, heart attack, or stroke; liver disease or liver problems, or an allergy to any component of the patch.

What should I tell my doctor before I use Estrogen patches?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have clot-related disorders, including heart attack and stroke, pulmonary embolism (a clot in the lungs), and thrombophlebitis (a clot in the veins); high blood pressure; high triglycerides; diabetes; thyroid problems; asthma; epilepsy; migraine headaches; heart problems; kidney problems; endometriosis; or gallbladder disease.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Your doctor will determine the dosage that is right for you. Typically, hormone replacement therapy should be started at the lowest possible dose and for the shortest duration needed to relieve your symptoms. You should be evaluated every 3 to 6 months.

How should I use Estrogen patches?

Each patch is individually sealed in a protective pouch and is applied directly to the skin. Apply the adhesive side to a clean, dry area of your skin on the trunk of your body (including the buttocks and abdomen). Do not apply to your breasts or waist. Firmly press the patch in place with the palm of your hand for about 10 seconds, to make sure the edges are flat against your skin.

Contact with water during bathing, swimming, or showering will not affect the patch.

What should I avoid while using Estrogen patches?

Because the application site must be rotated, avoid using any particular site more than once a week.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Estrogen patches?

If you take certain other drugs while using estrogen, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before taking the following: alcohol, barbiturates such as phenobarbital and secobarbital, blood thinners such as warfarin, cimetidine, clarithromycin, dantrolene, epilepsy drugs such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, erythromycin, grapefruit juice, itraconazole, ketoconazole, rifampin, ritonavir, St. John's wort, steroids such as prednisone, and tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and imipramine.

What are the possible side effects of Estrogen patches?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: anxiety, back pain, breakthrough bleeding, breast tenderness, constipation, depression, flu-like symptoms, headache, high blood pressure, hot flushes, insomnia, indigestion, nausea, neck pain, sinus problems, skin redness and irritation at the site of the patch, upper respiratory tract infection, weight gain

Can I use Estrogen patches if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Estrogens should not be used during pregnancy or immediately after childbirth. Use of estrogens during pregnancy has been linked to reproductive tract problems in the children. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Estrogens decrease the quantity and quality of breast milk. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Estrogen patches?

If you forget to apply a new patch when you are supposed to, do it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time to change patches anyway, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not apply more than the prescribed number of patches at a time.

How should I store Estrogen patches?

Store the patches at room temperature, in their sealed pouches.