Product Description.:
WARNING: Estrogens have been reported to increase the chance of womb (endometrial) cancer in women who have been through menopause, especially in women with a uterus who receive estrogen-only hormone therapy. Estrogens may also increase the risk of ovarian or breast cancer. If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding or lumps in the breast, notify your doctor immediately. Estrogen given in combination with another hormone (progestin) for replacement therapy can infrequently cause heart disease (e.g., heart attacks), stroke, serious blood clots (pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis), dementia, and breast cancer. These risks appear to depend on the length of time this drug is used and the amount of estrogen per dose. Therefore, this medication should be used for the shortest possible length of time at the lowest effective dose so you obtain the benefits and minimize the chance of serious side effects from long-term treatment. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. If you use this drug for an extended period, you should be evaluated at least once a year. See Notes section. Products that contain estrogen should not be used to prevent heart disease. This medication is not effective in preventing or treating a threat or tendency of miscarriage (natural habitual abortion). This drug must not be used during pregnancy because its use may result in birth defects or cancer later in the child's life. See Precautions section.
USES: This medication is used to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) in women at high risk. It is a female hormone (an estrogen) and is usually given to women who no longer produce the proper amount after the change of life (menopause). There are several medications (e.g., raloxifene or bisphosphonates) that are safe and effective to prevent or treat bone loss. These medicines should be considered for use before estrogen therapy. If you have other medical conditions as well and are prescribed estrogens for more than one condition, consult your doctor about your treatment plan and its options.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. One patch is usually worn for 1 week and then replaced, or use as directed by your doctor. Follow the dosing schedule carefully. Do not open the sealed pouch container until ready to use. Open the pouch and remove the patch from the protective liner. Apply the patch to a clean, dry area on the lower stomach below your belly button pressing firmly for about 10 seconds to make sure the patch stays on. Do not place the patch on the breast. Also, do not place the patch on oily, red, or damaged skin. Avoid applying to the waistline since tight clothing may rub the patch off. Do not put the patch on areas where sitting may loosen it. After 1 week, remove the patch fold it in half with the sticky sides together and discard in the trash away from children and pets. Do not flush down the toilet. Apply a new patch to a different area to prevent skin irritation. If the area around the patch becomes red, itchy, or irritated, try a new site. If the irritation continues or becomes worse, notify your doctor promptly. If a patch falls off, reapply it or apply a new patch and wear it for the rest of the 7-day period. This medication should only be used as long as needed. You should talk to your doctor regularly (e.g., every 3 to 6 months) regarding the continued need for this treatment. If you still have your womb (uterus), you should also take another hormone (a progestin) for 2 weeks once or twice a year while using this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section. Dizziness, light-headedness, headache, stomach upset, bloating, nausea, weight changes, joint pain, increased/decreased interest in sex, breast tenderness, or skin redness/irritation at the application site may occur. If any of these persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (e.g., severe depression, memory loss), calf pain/swelling, sudden severe headache, chest pain, trouble breathing, one-sided weakness, slurred speech, vision changes (change in contact lens fit, loss of vision), swelling of hands or feet, stomach pain, vomiting, unusual vaginal discharge/itching/odor, yellowing eyes or skin. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking estradiol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This medication should no
