Indications
Estrace (active ingredient: estradiol) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy: Estrace is used for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women to relieve symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, itching, and burning.
- Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy: It is also indicated for the treatment of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, which includes symptoms such as vaginal dryness, dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse), and urinary symptoms, associated with estrogen deficiency.
Estrace belongs to a class of drugs known as estrogen hormones, which work by replenishing estrogen levels in the body to alleviate menopausal symptoms and restore vaginal tissue health.
Uses and Dosage
Estrace comes in the form of a tablet which is taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor. Take it with food or right after a meal to prevent stomach upset. If you are taking extended-release tablets, it is important not to crush, chew, or dissolve them as this can release all the drug at once and increase the risk of side effects. The tablets should be swallowed whole.
The Recommended starting dose for estradiol is 2 to 4 grams applied to your vagina per day for one or two weeks, then slowly lowered to ½ of the starting dose for one or two weeks. Once there is some improvement in your vagina, the maintenance dose is typically 1 gram one to three times per week. The exact dosage and dosing schedule may vary depending on individual factors.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Estradiol:
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in menstrual period
- Headache
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Stomach upset
- Vomiting
- Weight changes
Serious Side Effects of Estradiol:
- Breast lumps
- Mental or mood changes
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of blood clots (chest pain, severe headache, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, sudden vision changes, trouble breathing, confusion)
- Swelling of the hands and feet
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
Form and Strength
Estrace (Estradiol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Estrace: Tablet
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
Estradiol: Tablet
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
Caution
- Do not use Estrace if you have any of the following conditions: undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, liver disease, a bleeding disorder, if you will be having major surgery, a heart attack, a stroke, a blood clot, or cancer of the breast, uterus/cervix, or vagina.
- Smoking increases your risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, especially in women older than 35. Do not smoke or use tobacco while using any form of estrogen-containing medication, including oral contraceptives.
- Estrace may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma). Sunlight may worsen this effect, avoid your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
- Estrace should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away. Use a backup form of birth control and to call your healthcare provider right away if the implant comes out by itself.
- Always watch out for an allergic reaction while taking Estrace. Do not take this medication if you have a known allergy to estradiol or any inactive ingredients it may contain. If you observe signs of hypersensitivity such as skin rashes, itchiness, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing, immediately discontinue the medication and seek emergency medical help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Estrace safe?
Estrace is considered safe when taken as directed. However, it is important to be aware of any potential side effects, as well as any potential allergies to estradiol or any inactive ingredients the medication may contain.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Estrace?
If you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rashes, itching, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing, you should stop taking Estrace immediately and seek emergency medical help.
What are the common dosages for Estrace?
The most common dosage for Estrace is 0.5 mg, taken once daily. Depending on the individual and their symptoms, the dosage may be increased to up to 1.0 mg per day. It is important to talk to your doctor about the best dosage for you.
Should I take Estrace with food?
Estrace is best taken with food to help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
Are there any interactions with other medications?
Estrace may interact with certain medications such as warfarin, so it is important to let your doctor know about all medications you are taking.
Are there any risks associated with taking Estrace?
As with any medication, there are potential risks associated with taking Estrace. These include increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and breast and ovarian cancer. It is important to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before starting Estrace.
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