Estradiol is an estrogenic steroid medication. It is the most potent form of estrogen in the body. The drug treats menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal burning, dryness and irritation, vaginal atrophy and so on.
Estradiol is also effective for treating low estrogen levels in females with ovarian failure, males with hypogonadism and other conditions caused by lack of estrogen in the body. It can also treat certain types of prostate and breast cancers.
This drug is available in oral tablets, vagina cream, topical gel or patch, and injection.
Dosage
Take estradiol as prescribed by your doctor; the dosage is given according to the purpose of treatment and the response of the patient to treatment.
It increases the risk of developing uterine cancer in females, so your doctor may want you to take progestin alongside. Do not take this medication in larger amounts or for longer periods than recommended. Your doctor may also need to monitor your progress on a regular basis and decide if you should continue the treatment.
While using estradiol, it is essential to get a mammogram at least once a year and examine your breast for lumps on a monthly basis.
Side Effects of Estradiol
Common side effects may include breast pain, insomnia, mood changes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, blotchy, thinning scalp hair, vagina itching, weight gain etc. However, estradiol can also cause serious side effects like heart attack, swelling and tenderness of the stomach, blood clots, memory problems, jaundice, vaginal bleeding, etc.
If you notice any of these side effects, you need to stop taking the medication and consult your doctor right away.
Precaution
Do not smoke or use tobacco when taking estradiol; the combination can increase your risk of stroke, high blood pressure, heart attack and blood clots.
Tell your doctor if you will be having or just had surgery or any condition that will confine you to a bed or chair for a long time. Such conditions can cause blood clots, and taking estradiol will make it worse.
In addition, when taking this medication, you need to limit your time in the sun since estradiol causes blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin, and it can get worse with sunlight.
