What is estradiol?
Estradiol is an oral hormone which is trusted by millions of women for the treatment of the symptoms of menopause. Without treatment, these symptoms can become quite bothersome and include hot flashes, feelings of warmth in the face, neck, chest, dry, itchy external genitalia and vaginal irritation. Physicians have trusted estradiol as a choice for hormone replacement therapy for many years and estradiol has been proven to be both safe and effective.
How is estradiol prescribed?
Estradiol is prescribed in 1 and 2 mg tablets. Generally the medication is taken in the morning. The usual beginning dose is 1 mg by mouth per day as directed by your physician. Patients require varying dosages should discuss this with their doctor. Do not ever take more than the prescribed amount of estradiol without discussing it first with your personal physician. If you miss dose, take the medication as soon as you remember missing a dose. Do not take it, however, if it is almost time for your next dose. If this occurs, skip the missed dose and resume usual dosing schedule. Do not double-up the dose to catch up.
Are their persons who should avoid taking estradiol?
Yes. Patients with a personal or family history of breast lumps or cancer, high blood pressure, kidney /liver disease, or blood clots should discuss these with their physician prior to taking estradiol. Patients who have a history of smoking can also have a significant increase in the occurrence of blood clots while taking this medication, especially women over the age of 35. Under no circumstances should this medication be taken during pregnancy.
What are the benefits of estradiol treatment?
Postmenopausal women no longer produce enough natural estrogens. These hormones have vital functions within the body and hormone replacement therapy has been significantly beneficial in reducing the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, brittle bones, osteoporosis, vaginal dryness, alteration of feelings of sexual desire, and in some instances is used to treat cancer in both men and women.
Side effects may include:
Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, stomach upset, bloating or nausea, vaginal spotting, stomach pain, and increased chance for blood clots.
Please consult a doctor for a complete list of drug interactions and precautions and complete our patient profile form to see if estradiol is right for you.
Related Categories:
Women's Health
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