|
 Drug Name
Estrace (Estradiol)
Drug Uses
Estradiol is a form of estrogen. Estrogen is a female hormone necessary for many processes in the body.
Estrace is used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, and vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation. Estrace is also used to prevent osteoporosis. Estrace is sometimes used as part of cancer treatment in women and men. It works by replacing natural estrogens in a woman who can no longer produce enough estrogen. It works for advanced prostate cancer by antagonizing male hormones.
Estrace may also be used for purposes other than those listed.
How Taken
Use Estrace exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Take this medication with a full glass of water. You may take Estrace with food or after a meal to reduce stomach upset.
Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using Estrace.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Estradiol is a form of estrogen. Estrogen is a female hormone necessary for many processes in the body.
Missed Dose
Take the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take your medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Storage
Store Estrace at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Warnings/Precautions
Do not use Estrace if you have any of the following conditions: a history of stroke or blood clot, circulation problems, a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. This medication can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
Estrace increases your risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that may lead to cancer of the uterus. Taking progestins while using Estrace may lower this risk. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using Estrace.
Long-term Estrace treatment may increase your risk of breast cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using Estrace long-term. Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months) to determine whether you should continue this treatment.
Have regular physical exams and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using Estrace.
Possible Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
- chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling
- sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
- sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance
- pain or swelling in your lower leg
- abnormal vaginal bleeding
- pain, swelling, or tenderness in your stomach
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- a lump in your breast.
Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:
- nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- swollen breasts
- acne or skin color changes
- decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm
- migraine headaches or dizziness
- vaginal pain, dryness, or discomfort
- swelling of your ankles or feet
- depression
- changes in your menstrual periods, break-through bleeding.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
More Information
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
. |
