Estrace (Estradiol)

Description

Estrace is a drug used by women to treat various symptoms of menopause. This drug is also used as an estrogen replacement among women who have been through ovarian failure. Estrace is also commonly referred to as Estradiol in the medical industry.

 

 

 

How It Works

 

Estradiol is one of the key ingredients in this medication. Estradiol is a form of estrogen. Thus, it is an imperative sex hormone that is essential to regulate certain important functions in the body such as reproduction and ovulation. This medication works by increasing the level of estrogen or estradiol in the body. This increased level of estradiol hormones enables the body to prevent the symptoms of menopause.

 

Uses

 

The medication is mainly used to treat a number of menopause symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, irritation, etc. The drug is also useful in preventing osteoporosis among postmenopausal women. Estrace is also used as a replacement for estrogen among women who have been through ovarian failure or any other condition that as resulted in a lack of estrogen in the system. This drug is also used to treat cancer along with a number of other medications.

 

Dosage

 

This medication is available in the form of tablet and cream. This drug can be taken by mouth with or without food.

 

However, it is best if you consume Estrace with food since it will help you to prevent an upset stomach. If you are using the tablets, do not crush the capsule by chewing or biting it. This can expose the drug to your mouth and thereby increase the risk of side effects.

 

This medication must be consumed on a regular basis in order to experience its best benefits. Therefore, do not skip or miss your dose. Any missed dose must be taken as soon as you remember. Do not double the dosage, unless your physician tells you otherwise.

 

Side Effects

 

Keep an eye out for the following common side effects of Estrace during your treatment period.

 

 Signs of a stroke
 Signs of a heart attack
 Signs of a blood clot
 Tenderness in the stomach
 Jaundice
 Unusual vaginal bleeding
 Lump in the breast
 Fluid retention
 Rapid weight gain

 

In the event of any of the symptoms, reach out to your physician as soon as possible.

 

Precautions

 

The following safety instructions must be strictly followed in order to reduce the occurrence of possible side effects.

 

 Ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients used in the medication.

 

 Take lab tests once in three months to review your progress.

 

 Inform your physician about your current medications.

 

 Do not stop the consumption of Estrace abruptly.

 

 Do not make any changes to the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

 

Self-Care

 

This medication must not be used during the period of pregnancy. Doing so can affect the health of the fetus to a great extent. If you become pregnant or wish to become pregnant during the treatment period, bring the situation to your physician’s notice.

 

This medication can react negatively to grapefruit or grapefruit juice and result in severe health complications.

 

Therefore, make sure to avoid grapefruit products during this period.