Description
Estradiol gel belongs to the class of medications known as estrogen replacement therapy. It is used to manage menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, 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 people who menstruate reach menopause naturally around the age of 50, but some people may undergo menopause sooner, due to many causes, including surgery.
People 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 transdermal gel contains estradiol-17β 0.06% in a specially formulated hydro-alcoholic gel to provide a sustained absorption of the active ingredient. Metered-dose pumps of 80 g. Each metered-actuation delivers 1.25 g of gel (0.75 mg of estradiol-17β). Nonmedicinal ingredients: carbopol 980, ethanol, purified water, and triethanolamine.
The gel is usually applied on a cyclic schedule from day 1 to 25 of each calendar month, or from day 1 to day 21 of a 28-day cycle. The recommended starting dose is 2.5 g daily (2 pumps).
With each new container of gel, you must get the pump ready. To do this, remove the cover and firmly press the top of the dispenser twice. Discard this gel by rinsing your hand or placing it into a garbage container that cannot be accessed by pets or others in the household.
The pump is specially designed to deliver a set amount of medication in each press. To obtain a daily dose, press firmly on the pump to dispense the dose of the gel into the palm of your hand. Using your hands, apply all of the gel in a thin, uniform layer over a large area of clean, dry skin. It is recommended to apply the contents of one pump press of the gel to the outside of one arm from wrist to shoulder. Other recommended areas of application are the abdomen or inner thighs.
The number of times you press the pump will depend on the dose recommended by your doctor. If your dose is 2 pump presses, then repeat the process and apply the contents of the second press to the other arm. Allow the gel to dry for approximately 2 minutes before covering it with clothing. Wash your hands when you are finished. Do not apply the gel to the breasts, face, or to irritated or damaged skin.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
