Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/4/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

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.

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.

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.

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.