Estradiol patch

Estradiol Patch

The Estradiol Patch is a type of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that delivers the hormone estradiol directly through the skin and into the bloodstream. It is primarily used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation.

Usage

The Estradiol Patch is applied to the skin, usually once or twice a week. The patch should be applied to clean, dry skin on the lower abdomen, below the waistline. It should not be applied to the breasts or around the waist. The patch should be replaced with a new one on the same day of the week as it was first applied.

Mechanism of Action

The Estradiol Patch works by releasing estradiol into the bloodstream through the skin. Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone that regulates many processes in the body. It helps to reduce menopause symptoms by replacing the estrogen that the body is no longer making.

Side Effects

Like all medications, the Estradiol Patch can cause side effects. Common side effects include skin redness or irritation at the site of the patch, headache, breast pain, irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea and vomiting, and hair loss. More serious side effects can include blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and cancer of the uterus.

Precautions

Before using the Estradiol Patch, patients should discuss their medical history with their healthcare provider, especially if they have a history of blood clots, stroke, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, cancer, high cholesterol or triglycerides, high or low blood pressure, migraines, asthma, seizures, and thyroid problems.

Interactions

The Estradiol Patch can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, thyroid medications, insulin or oral diabetes medications, and certain antibiotics. Patients should discuss all medications they are currently taking with their healthcare provider before starting treatment with the Estradiol Patch.

See Also

• Hormone replacement therapy
• Menopause
• Estrogen
• Estradiol