Prescription Required
Known internationally as Oestrogel
What is EstroGel Used For?
EstroGel is a hormone replacement therapy that contains estrogen. By replacing some of the estrogen that is lost during menopause, EstroGel can be an effective way to manage troublesome symptoms.
Research shows that EstroGel can effectively relieve the following menopause symptoms:
- Reduces the frequency and severity of hot flashes.
- Treats vaginal changes related to menopause, such as dryness, irritation, and discomfort during intercourse.
If you think EstroGel can help provide some relief, have an open discussion with your doctor. They can review your symptoms and medical history to determine if EstroGel is right for you. If prescribed, consider using an online Canadian pharmacy like My Drug Center to save up to 90% on this medication.
How Does EstroGel Work?
EstroGel contains the active ingredient estradiol, which belongs to a class of medications known as estrogen replacement therapy. When you apply EstroGel to your skin, it releases estradiol directly into your bloodstream through your skin.
Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a hormone produced by the ovaries. Estrogen levels start to decline as women approach menopause, usually around age 50. This drop in estrogen leads to symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
For women who have not had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), another hormone called progestin must be taken with EstroGel to prevent complications.
How to Use EstroGel
When you use an EstroGel canister for the first time, it's important to prime the pump. This ensures that the medication is dispensed properly and ready for use. Fortunately, each canister of EstroGel contains enough medicine to allow you to prime the pump before your first application.
Follow these steps to prime the pump:
- Begin by removing the large cap from the canister. This will expose the pump mechanism.
- Slowly push the pump all the way down five times. This will prime the pump for use.
- While priming, it's important not to use any of the EstroGel that comes out. To avoid accidental exposure to others, wash it down the sink.
Once the pump has been primed, you're ready to start using EstroGel. Follow these steps once daily for proper application:
- Remove the small cover on the tip of the pump. This will expose the dispensing mechanism.
- Firmly and fully press the pump one time into the palm of your hand. This will dispense the appropriate amount of EstroGel.
- Apply the EstroGel to the skin of your other arm. It's important to spread the gel as thinly as possible over the entire area, both on the inside and outside of your arm, from your wrist to your shoulder.
- After applying EstroGel, it's crucial to wash your hands immediately with soap and water. This reduces the chance of the medication spreading from your hands to other people.
- Allow the gel to dry for approximately 5 minutes before getting dressed. This ensures that the medication is properly absorbed.
EstroGel Side Effects
EstroGel can cause side effects in some people. Contact your doctor if these side effects become severe or bothersome:
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness or pain
- Stomach or abdominal cramps
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hair loss
- Fluid retention
- Vaginal yeast infection
While less common, EstroGel can also cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Breast lumps
- Vaginal bleeding
- Vision or speech changes
- Severe headaches
- Chest or leg pain
- Weakness
- Swelling of face, lips, and tongue
FAQs
How long does EstroGel take to work?
The effects of EstroGel appear gradually. You may start to notice some initial benefits within the first few weeks of treatment. However, the full effects can take up to three months to manifest.
How do I store EstroGel?
The hormones in EstroGel can transfer to others. Estrogen hormones may have side effects on those who are not currently going through hormone replacement therapy. For the safety of others in your household, store EstroGel in a secure location only you can access, rather than keeping it in an openly shared space like a bathroom.
What if I miss a dose of EstroGel?
If you miss a dose of EstroGel, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed dose.
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