Estradiol valerate/megestrol acetate

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Estradiol Valerate/Megestrol Acetate[edit | edit source]

Estradiol Valerate structure

Estradiol valerate/megestrol acetate is a combination medication used in hormone therapy. It consists of two active ingredients: estradiol valerate, an estrogen, and megestrol acetate, a progestin. This combination is primarily used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and in certain cases of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Estradiol Valerate[edit | edit source]

Estradiol valerate is an ester of estradiol, a naturally occurring estrogen. It is used to replace estrogen in women who have low levels of this hormone due to menopause or other conditions. Estradiol valerate is administered via intramuscular injection, where it is slowly hydrolyzed to release estradiol, providing a sustained estrogenic effect.

Megestrol Acetate[edit | edit source]

Megestrol Acetate structure

Megestrol acetate is a synthetic derivative of the hormone progesterone. It acts as a progestin, which is a type of medication that mimics the effects of progesterone. Megestrol acetate is used to counteract the effects of estrogen on the endometrium, reducing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer in women undergoing estrogen therapy.

Medical Uses[edit | edit source]

The combination of estradiol valerate and megestrol acetate is used in hormone replacement therapy to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis. It is also used in certain cases to manage symptoms in women who have undergone surgical removal of the ovaries or who have conditions that cause low estrogen levels.

Administration[edit | edit source]

Estradiol valerate/megestrol acetate is typically administered via intramuscular injection. The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the specific needs of the patient and the condition being treated. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding the use of this medication.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of estradiol valerate/megestrol acetate may include nausea, headache, breast tenderness, and changes in weight. More serious side effects can occur, such as an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Patients should be monitored regularly by their healthcare provider while using this medication.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD