Menopause is a natural process in every woman's life. However, it can sometimes be accompanied by a number of uncomfortable symptoms. Some women are particularly uncomfortable with vaginal dryness, itching, and frequent urination. So today we are going to talk about Estradiol Emulsion, a topical medication that doctors prescribe to control these symptoms.
What is this medicine called Estradiol?
Simply put, Estradiol is the same hormone called estrogen that is naturally produced in the female body. With menopause, the level of this estrogen hormone in our body decreases. It is because of this decrease that the problems we talked about earlier arise.
So this Estradiol Emulsion is a liquid that can be applied to the skin. When applied to the skin, it is absorbed into the body through the skin and helps to restore the decreased estrogen levels to some extent. The main function of this medicine is to relieve vaginal dryness, itching, and urinary problems associated with menopause.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Since this is a hormone therapy, it is very important that your doctor knows your complete health history. If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor before starting this medication.
| Disease or condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Cancerous conditions | If you have or currently have cancer of the breast, cervix, endometrium, ovaries, liver, or uterus. |
| Blood and blood vessel problems | Blood vessel disease, blood clotting problems, recent heart attack or stroke. High blood pressure, high cholesterol. |
| Other medical conditions | Diseases such as diabetes, gallbladder disease, kidney or liver disease, dementia, migraine, high blood calcium levels, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). |
| Surgery and allergies | If you have had a hysterectomy. If you have had an allergic reaction to estrogen or other hormones, soy, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives. |
| Other important points | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. If you are a smoker. |
How to use this medicine correctly?
This is only a topical medication. Do not take it by mouth for any reason.
1. Use the exact amount as prescribed by your doctor. Usually, the amount of medicine in two packets per day is used at one time.
2. This medicine should be applied to the thighs of your legs .
3. After applying the medicine, let it dry completely before getting dressed.
4. After applying the medicine, wash your hands thoroughly with soap to remove any remaining medicine. This is very important.
5. Do not use more often than the doctor tells you to.
Usually, when you are given this medicine, you will receive a patient package insert. Read it carefully each time you take the medicine, as the information in it may be updated.
What to do if you miss a dose ?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much 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.
This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not let anyone else use it, even if your symptoms are the same as yours.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Some medications can interact with Estradiol, so it's important to tell your doctor about all the medications you're taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements) .
Be sure to tell your doctor if you are using any of the medications listed below.
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medicines that should never be taken with this medicine | |
| Aromatase inhibitors | aminoglutethimide, anastrozole, exemestane, letrozole, testolactone |
| Other medications that can cause problems | |
| Antibiotics for tuberculosis | rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine |
| Other hormone treatments | raloxifene, tamoxifen |
| Blood thinners | warfarin |
Things you should pay attention to during treatment
- Regular medical checkups: See your doctor at regular intervals to monitor your progress. It is essential to have regular breast and pelvic exams. Also, talk to your doctor about when to get a mammogram and follow his or her instructions.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking while taking this medication greatly increases the risk of blood clots and stroke, especially if you are over 35 years old . Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid smoking completely.
- Water retention: This medicine can sometimes cause swelling in your fingers, hands, or ankles. It can also increase your blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you feel like you are retaining water.
- Pregnancy: If you have any suspicion that you are pregnant, stop using the medicine immediately and see your doctor.
- Surgery: If you are going to have elective surgery, you may need to stop taking this medicine beforehand. Talk to your doctor about this before scheduling your surgery.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Breakthrough bleeding | Chest pain |
| Breast changes (lumps, pain) or discharge | Sudden difficulty breathing |
| Severe headache | Pain in the leg, arm, or groin |
| Confusion, forgetfulness | Difficulty speaking |
| Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting | Yellowing of the eyes or skin |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Changes in emotions or mood | Skin rashes, acne, or brown spots |
| Changes in sexual desire or function | Symptoms of a vaginal infection (itching, abnormal discharge) |
| Increased or decreased appetite | Weight gain |
How to store medicine?
- Keep out of the reach of children .
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius).
- Throw away expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Estradiol emulsion is a hormone treatment applied to the skin for menopausal symptoms.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about your complete health history and any other medications you are taking.
- Use the medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor, in the prescribed amount. Never share it with anyone else.
- If you experience a serious side effect such as chest pain, severe headache, or difficulty speaking, seek medical advice immediately.
- Smoking while taking this treatment greatly increases the risk of blood clots.
- It is essential to have regular medical checkups and breast exams.
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