Description
Estradiol gel belongs to the class of medications known as estrogen replacement therapy. It is used to manage menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, irritation of the vagina, and sleep disturbances. When estradiol gel is applied to your skin, it releases estradiol into your blood through your skin.
Estradiol is a type of estrogen, a female hormone that is produced by the ovaries. At menopause, the amount of estrogen made by the ovaries declines and symptoms such as hot flushes (sudden, extreme feeling of warmth) and vaginal dryness can occur. Most women reach menopause naturally around the age of 50, but some women may undergo menopause sooner, due to many causes, including surgery.
Women who have not had a hysterectomy (removal of their uterus or womb) must also take another female hormone called progestin while they are taking this medication to prevent complications associated with taking estrogen alone.
The gel is usually applied once daily. The recommended starting dose is 0.25 mg daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response.
To apply the estradiol gel, open the foil packet and squeeze the entire contents onto the skin of the upper thigh. Spread the gel in a thin layer over an area of about 5 to 7 inches or the size of two palm prints. Allow the gel to dry completely before dressing. To avoid skin irritation, rotate between the right and the left thigh each day.
