Estrace

Estrace is a brand name for a medication that contains estradiol, a form of estrogen hormone. It is commonly used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal atrophy, and osteoporosis prevention. Estrace is available in various forms, including oral tablets, vaginal creams, and transdermal patches.

Medical Uses

Estrace is primarily prescribed for:

• Hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women
• Treatment of hypoestrogenism due to hypogonadism, castration, or primary ovarian failure
• Prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
• Palliative treatment of advanced breast cancer in selected women and men
• Palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer in men

Mechanism of Action

Estradiol, the active ingredient in Estrace, is a potent form of estrogen. It works by binding to and activating estrogen receptors in various tissues, including the reproductive system, breast, bone, liver, and brain. This activation helps alleviate menopausal symptoms and prevents bone loss.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Estrace may include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Breast tenderness
• Vaginal bleeding
• Mood changes

Serious side effects can include:

• Increased risk of endometrial cancer
• Increased risk of breast cancer
• Increased risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
• Increased risk of stroke and myocardial infarction

Contraindications

Estrace should not be used in individuals with:

• Known or suspected breast cancer
• Known or suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasia
• Active or history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
• Active or recent arterial thromboembolic disease (e.g., stroke, myocardial infarction)
• Liver dysfunction or disease
• Known or suspected pregnancy

Administration

Estrace is available in several forms:

• Oral tablets: Typically taken once daily
• Vaginal cream: Applied directly to the vaginal area
• Transdermal patches: Applied to the skin and replaced according to a prescribed schedule

Related Pages

• Estrogen
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Menopause
• Osteoporosis
• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer