A solution to post-menopausal discomfort? Let's learn about hormone patches (Estradiol; Norethindrone)!

Menopause is something that many women face between the ages of 45-55. During this time, you may experience many discomforts, such as sudden sweating, hot flashes, sleeplessness at night, irritability, and vaginal dryness. Although these are normal, they can be a big obstacle to your daily life. So, do you also have these discomforts? Then it is very important for you to know about this hormone patch that we are talking about today.

What is this hormone patch?

Simply put, this is a small patch that you stick on your skin. It's like a plaster. This patch contains a mixture of two types of female hormones. They are estrogen (Estradiol) and progestin (Norethindrone).

Think about it, with menopause, our body's production of these hormones naturally decreases. That's why many of the problems we talked about earlier occur. So what this patch does is deliver the hormones needed by the body through the skin, and it controls the symptoms caused by the decrease in those hormones. This is sometimes recommended for women who have had their ovaries removed surgically.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Since this is a hormone treatment, it is extremely important that your doctor knows your complete health history. If you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor before using this patch.

• If you have previously had blood clots or a blood vessel disease.
• If you have breast, cervical, or uterine cancer or are suspected of having such cancer.
• If you have diabetes.
• If you have endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
• If you have gallbladder disease.
• If you have heart disease, a recent heart attack, or a stroke.
• If you have high cholesterol or calcium levels in your blood.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you have had a hysterectomy.
• If you have kidney or liver disease.
• If you have depression or migraines.
• Other specific medical conditions such as lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - SLE).
• If you are a smoker (this is very important).
• If there is vaginal bleeding for no known reason.
• If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• If you have allergies to other hormones, medications, foods, or preservatives.

How exactly do I use this patch?

This is something that is used on the skin. You should use it exactly as your doctor tells you.

1. Tear open the packet: Do not use scissors, tear open by hand.

2. Prepare the patch: Carefully peel off the stiff protective liner from the sticky side of the patch inside. Try not to touch the sticky side.

3. Apply: Apply the sticky side of the patch to a clean, dry, hairless area of ​​your lower abdomen . Do not apply to wounds, scars, or areas with rough skin. Never apply this patch to the breasts or around the waist.

4. Change the location: To avoid skin allergies, change the place where you apply the patch each time. For example, if you applied it on the right side of your stomach this time, apply it on the left side next time.

5. Change according to the schedule: Your doctor will tell you which days of the week you should change the patch (for example, every Monday and Thursday). Follow that schedule exactly.

6. Do not cut: Do not cut or make any changes to the patch.

What if I forget to change the patch?

If you forget to change your patch on the day you are supposed to, remove the old one and apply a new one as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next patch, discard the missed patch and apply the next patch at your regular schedule. Do not wear two patches at once for any reason.

Overdosage

If you think you have accidentally overdosed on this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)

It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Some medications may interact with this hormone patch.

This list is not complete, so talk to your doctor about everything you take.

Things to be careful about when using this patch

• Regular medical checkups: Visit your doctor at least once every 6 months to check on your condition. It is also essential to have a breast exam, pelvic exam, and mammogram at regular intervals.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking greatly increases the risk of blood clots and stroke, especially if you are over 35. Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid smoking completely.
• Fluid retention: This medicine may cause swelling in your fingers, hands, or ankles. It may also increase your blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Pregnancy: If you have any suspicion that you are pregnant, stop using the patch immediately and see your doctor.
• Surgery and MRI: If you are planning to have elective surgery, talk to your doctor about it beforehand. Also, if you are going to have an MRI scan, tell the MRI technician that you are using this patch. The aluminum coating on some patches can heat up during the MRI and burn the skin.
• If the patch comes off: You can shower and exercise. But if the patch comes off, try to reapply it. If it doesn't work, apply a new patch to a different spot and continue with your normal schedule.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.

How should I store the medicine?

Keep this patch out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature, in the sealed foil packet. Throw away any remaining patches after the expiration date on the package or after 6 months.

Menopause, hormone patch, Estradiol, Norethindrone, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, women's health