Estradiol

Drug Information

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on April 17, 2025

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Quick facts

• Brand Name: Estrace, Vivelle-Dot, Climara, Estring, Femring, Imvexxy, Vagifem, Divigel, Elestrin, Alora, Estradot, Estrogel, Evamist, Menostar
• Generic Name: Estradiol
• Uses: Treating symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, hormone replacement therapy, and certain cases of breast cancer and prostate cancer
• Drug Class: Estrogen hormone
• Availability: Prescription only
• Generic Status: Yes
• Controlled Substance: No

What is estradiol?

Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. It is used primarily in hormone replacement therapy to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and irritation. It also plays a role in the treatment of certain cases of breast and prostate cancer.

What conditions does estradiol treat?

Estradiol is primarily used to treat conditions such as:

• Menopausal symptoms: Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal discomfort.
• Hormone replacement therapy: Supplements or replaces estrogen naturally produced by the ovaries, which diminishes during menopause.
• Osteoporosis prevention: Used in postmenopausal women to help prevent bone loss and fractures.
• Breast and prostate cancer: Certain types that are responsive to hormones may be treated with estradiol.

It may also be prescribed for other hormone-related conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

How does estradiol work?

Estradiol works by supplementing the estrogen naturally produced by the body, which decreases during menopause. By replacing estrogen, estradiol helps alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms associated with lowered hormone levels and supports normal bodily functions that rely on estrogen.

How do I take estradiol?

Estradiol can be taken in various forms, depending on the specific needs:

• Oral tablets (Estrace): Typically taken once daily.
• Topical patches (Vivelle-Dot, Climara): Applied to the skin and changed at intervals prescribed by a healthcare provider.
• Vaginal creams, rings, or tablets: Used to treat local symptoms of menopause like vaginal dryness and irritation.

The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and your response to the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.

How long until I feel better?

The effectiveness of estradiol and the time it takes to notice improvement can vary among individuals. Improvement in menopausal symptoms can be noticed within a few weeks, but it may take longer to feel its full effects.

Continue taking estradiol as prescribed even if you start feeling better. Do not abruptly stop the medication, as it may lead to a recurrence of symptoms.

Are there any other uses for estradiol?

While estradiol is primarily used for managing menopausal symptoms and hormone replacement, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for other conditions, such as:

• Menstrual migraines
• Postpartum depression

Discuss any alternative uses of estradiol with your healthcare provider.

Dosage forms of estradiol

Estradiol is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral tablets: Commonly available in dosages such as 0.5mg, 1mg, and 2mg.
• Topical patches: Available in various strengths and are typically changed once or twice a week.
• Vaginal creams, rings, or tablets: Specifically designed for localized treatment of vaginal symptoms.

Generic versions of estradiol are available, providing cost-effective treatment options.

Estradiol is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.

Side Effects and Precautions for Estradiol

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What are the side effects of estradiol?

The use of estradiol can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of estradiol use include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Headache or back pain
• Breast tenderness or swelling
• Edema (fluid retention)
• Weight changes
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Mood changes, including mood swings or depression
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Changes in menstrual cycle

More severe side effects of estradiol use can include:

• Blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism)
• Stroke or heart attack
• Elevated blood pressure
• Liver problems (such as gallbladder disease, changes in liver function tests)
• Severe allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing)
• Breast or uterine cancer
• Excessive vaginal bleeding
• Vision changes (such as blurred vision or sudden loss of vision)

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking estradiol, contact your healthcare provider right away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using estradiol?

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with estradiol. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with estradiol.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
• Aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole, exemastane, letrozole)
• Thyroid medications
• Corticosteroids
• Tizanidine
• Other hormones (such as progesterone or other forms of estrogen)

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• History of hormone-dependent cancers (such as breast or uterine cancer)
• Liver disease
• Blood clotting disorders
• Heart disease or history of stroke
• History of endometriosis or uterine fibroids

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using estradiol to assess potential risks and benefits.

Notify your healthcare provider if you smoke. Estradiol is not recommended in those who smoke.

Are there any other special instructions I should follow?

Take estradiol exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Estradiol should be taken with or without food based on your healthcare provider's advice. It is important to ensure the medication’s effectiveness.

Store estradiol at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of an estradiol overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, sudden numbness or weakness, or unusual vaginal bleeding. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.

Proper Use & Dosage Information for Estradiol

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What is the typical starting dose for estradiol?

Estradiol is available in the following forms:

• Oral tablets (0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg)
• Transdermal patches (various dosages, typically ranging from 0.025 mg to 0.1 mg released daily)
• Topical gels and creams
• Vaginal creams, rings, and tablets

The typical starting dose of estradiol varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.

For menopausal symptoms, the typical starting doses may be:

• Oral tablets: 0.5 mg to 1 mg daily.
• Transdermal patches: Applied once or twice a week depending on the brand and dosage.

For osteoporosis prevention or estrogen replacement, providers start patients on lower doses and adjust based on response.

Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history, current medications, and response to the medication.

Estradiol should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.

If you have any questions about your dosage or how to take this medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist. If you want to talk to a provider right away, consider booking an online doctor appointment on Sesame to discuss your concerns.

What should I do if I miss a dose of estradiol?

If you miss a dose of estradiol, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of estradiol in managing your hormonal needs.

What should I do if I'm feeling better while taking estradiol?

Continue taking estradiol as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your provider, as it may lead to a recurrence of symptoms or other complications.

Complete the full course of treatment as directed to maintain the desired therapeutic benefits.

If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations.

How should I store estradiol?

Store estradiol according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Keep it at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Ensure the container is tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Do not use expired medication or medications that appear damaged or discolored. If you have any questions about storage, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.