Estradiol
Generic Name:
Estradiol, Ethinyl Estradiol - Oral, Estradiol Injection
Brand Names:
Estradiol Description:
Estradiol is a form of estrogen used for the replacement of hormones in menopausal women. Estradiol treats symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness and prevents the thinning of bone tissue and bone density (osteoporosis) which is common in postmenopausal women. Estradiol is also used to treat women who have very low levels of estrogen and those who have had either one or both of their ovaries removed.
Estradiol Uses:
Estradiol is mainly prescribed to women who do not produce an adequate amount of estrogen. It is an alternative and supplement to the estrogen content in a women’s body. Estradiol helps prevent bone loss (better known as osteoporosis), and can treat symptoms associate with prostate cancer in men.
Estradiol Interactions:
Estradiol must not be combined with any of the following medications:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Prednisolone (Orapred)
- Cyclosporine (Neoral, Gengraf, Sandimmune)
- Theophylline (Respbid, Theo-Dur)
- St. John's wort
- Seizure medication such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol) or phenobarbital (Solfoton)
- An antibiotic such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S., itraconazole (Sporanox), Ery-Tab, Erythrocin), or ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifamate)
- HIV or AIDS medications like ritonavir (Norvir, Kaletra)
The above listing is not complete as there may be many other drugs that can interact with Estradiol. Be sure to inform your doctor about all over-the-counter and prescription medications, minerals, herbal products, vitamins, and drugs you may be taking.
Estradiol Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Estradiol is to be taken orally either with food or just after finishing a meal in order to avoid a stomach upset. The dosage recommended depends on the medical conditions of the patient and the response of the patient’s body towards the therapy.
The prescribed dosage must be followed carefully and strictly.
Patients using the Estradiol injection will learn how to administer the injection from a doctor. An injection is typically administered once every four weeks.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose of Estradiol, take it as soon as you remember. If it is too late or already time for your next dose, resume the usual dosing schedule and skip the missed dose. Do not double dose.
Overdosing
Some of the most common symptoms associated with an overdose of Estradiol are disproportionate vaginal bleeding, nausea and vomiting. If you suspect an overdose of the medication, seek emergency medical attention.
Estradiol FDA Approval:
July 31, 1996
Estradiol Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There are no recalls or Black Box warnings for Estradiol.
Other Warnings
Endometrial Cancer: The risk of endometrial cancer among those who intake estrogen is about two to 12 times greater than those who do not. The greatest risks seem to be linked with prolonged usage.
Breast Cancer: While a greater part of research has not shown any significant risk of breast cancer among the estrogen users, some studies have stated that there has been an increased risk among those who have taken estrogen in large doses or have taken lower doses for a relatively longer period of time.
Congenital Lesions with Malignant Potential: The use of estrogen during pregnancy is closely associated with a high risk of fetal congenital reproductive tract disorders and some other birth defects. The female fetus carries the risk squamous cell dysplasia in the uterine cervix, clear cell vaginal cancer and vaginal adenosis, while the male fetus carries the risk of being affected by testicular cancer and urogenital abnormalities later in life.
Other diseases that can occur due to intake of Estradiol include cardiovascular disease, gallbladder disease, elevated blood pressure and hypercalcemia.
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