Get to know some useful information about Estraderm (estradiol)
Estraderm (estradiol) is a hormone replacement therapy typically prescribed for managing the symptoms of menopause.
At Chemist2U, we offer you some information about Estraderm (estradiol) that you can discuss with your doctor.
In this article
How does Estraderm (estradiol) work?
Menopause marks the end of ovarian reproductive function and often brings a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, low mood, anxiety and sleep disturbances. These symptoms generally stem from a deficiency of estrogen typically during natural or surgically induced menopause.1
Estraderm (estradiol) can generally be used for the short-term management of these symptoms. It is also designed to help with hormone regulation and the prevention of postmenopausal bone mineral density loss in women who are at a heightened risk of osteoporotic fractures.2
How do you take Estraderm (estradiol)?
The Estraderm (estradiol) patch is packaged in a sachet according to the Estraderm patch dosage prescribed by your doctor and features a protective release liner that needs to be removed before application. It’s designed for application on clean, dry skin, ideally on the buttocks, away from any areas that might be oily or irritated.
Once the Estraderm patch application is complete, the adhesive side should firmly attach to the skin. Although the patch is generally water-resistant, exposure to very hot water or steam could potentially affect its adhesion. If a patch does come off, it can be reapplied, or a new one can be used, continuing with the normal treatment schedule.
An Estraderm patch prescription should be followed as directed. The patch may not be applied to the breasts. Do not use the same application site consecutively. The patch must not be cut or torn. Cover it with clothing to protect it from direct sunlight or UV exposure from a solarium.
Who can take Estraderm (estradiol)?
Estraderm (estradiol) is primarily prescribed for managing symptoms associated with estrogen deficiency, which often occurs during menopause, whether it is a natural process or induced surgically.3
For women whose uterus is intact, it is important to use this medication in conjunction with a progestogen. This combination can help maintain the health of the endometrium by ensuring it undergoes necessary changes at regular intervals. This approach is generally part of a managed treatment plan to address specific medical conditions as diagnosed by a doctor.
Side effects of Estraderm (estradiol)
Estraderm (estradiol) may cause several side effects, although these are not common.
Some reported Estraderm side effects include: breast enlargement and tenderness, headache, depression, change in libido, irregular or breakthrough bleeding, spotting, endometrial hyperplasia leg cramps, dry eye syndrome. It may also slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer and gallstones.4
Skin reactions might involve rashes, itching and various types of erythema. Pain in joints and muscles, as well as changes in endocrine functions like weight fluctuations, mood changes and menstrual irregularities, have also been noted. Gastrointestinal issues may include stomach pain, constipation and nausea. Severe reactions like anaphylaxis and liver-related issues such as jaundice have been reported as well. Additionally, some individuals may experience eye discomfort or infections like otitis media.5
Estraderm (estradiol) and other medications
When taking Estraderm (estradiol) because you received an e-prescription from your doctor, it’s important to consider interactions with other substances that may affect how the drug is processed in the body.
Certain drugs, including some anticonvulsants like carbamazepine and phenytoin, as well as specific anti-infectives like rifampicin, can increase the metabolism of estradiol by enhancing the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes. This could alter the drug’s effect.
Conversely, substances that inhibit these enzymes, such as ketoconazole and erythromycin, may increase estradiol levels in the body. Herbal products like St John’s wort are also known to speed up the metabolism of estradiol and other similar hormones, which might reduce their effectiveness and change bleeding patterns.
Care should be taken when estradiol is used alongside protease inhibitors, which can strongly affect enzyme activity and impact the drug’s performance. Talk to your doctor about other medications you’re taking.
Medicines you should not use with Estraderm (estradiol)
The use of Estraderm (estradiol) in conjunction with other forms of HRT is generally not advised without consulting a doctor. Such discussions are crucial for safely managing your medication regimen. If you’ve discussed Estraderm patch vs oral HRT with your doctor, they may tell you how to move forward with your treatment plan.
How to order home delivery of Estraderm (estradiol) with Chemist2U
Chemist2U simplifies the way you manage medications with our straightforward home delivery service. Start by downloading our app or using this website. Here’s how it works:
- Online prescription uploads made easy. Quickly upload your eScript from anywhere.
- Add over-the-counter medicine, if needed. Select from a broad range of over-the-counter medications and general pharmacy products, just like what’s available at a physical pharmacy.
- Qualified local pharmacists. Your medication will be carefully filled by a trusted pharmacist from a partner pharmacy near you.
- Convenient delivery service. We offer same-day delivery in all capital cities and major regional areas throughout Australia, so there’s no need to search ‘chemist near me’. (Note that a minority of products, inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro, are delivered via AusPost. Allow 1 to 3 business days in capital cities and major regional centres.)
Our customer service team is always ready to address your order-related questions. Plus, if you have general questions about your medications, try our online Ask a Pharmacist service instead of searching endlessly for a local chemist Perth has to offer or elsewhere across Australia.
We’re committed to providing you with a convenient way to get your medications from a pharmacy online. Choose Chemist2U and make your medication easy.
References
1. https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2023/218/11/advancing-menopause-care-australia-barriers-and-opportunities
2. https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2016-PI-02653-1&d=20240625172310101
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8357145/
