17-Beta Estradiol Gel is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy in Menopause, Hypoestrogenism, Metastatic Breast Cancer, Hypoestrogen, Prostate Cancer, Osteoporosis, and Vasomotor Symptoms Associated with Menopause. EstroGel may be used alone or with other medications. EstroGel belongs to a class of drugs called Estrogen Derivatives.

Uses of 17-Beta Estradiol Gel

• Estradiol gel reduces the frequency and severity of hot flashes and other symptoms caused by menopause. Menopause is a natural part of aging and marks the end of your reproductive years.
• Relieves symptoms of Menopause such as vaginal irritation, dryness, or pain during sex.

Directions of use

• This medication is for external use only. Follow the directions that come with your prescription. Spread the gel into a thin layer. It is not necessary to rub or massage the gel into the skin. Wash your hands with soap and water after applying the gel. Allow the gel to dry for up to 5 minutes before dressing.
• Avoid fire, flame, or smoking until the gel has dried. Do not apply to the breast, face, or in or around the vagina.
• Do not use your medicine more often than directed.
• Talk to your care team regarding the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Side Effects

EstroGel may cause serious side effects including:

• chest pain or pressure
• pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder
• nausea
• sweating
• sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body)
• sudden severe headache
• slurred speech
• problems with vision or balance
• sudden vision loss
• stabbing chest pain
• shortness of breath
• coughing up blood

The most common side effects of EstroGel include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach cramps
• bloating
• swelling
• weight gain
• breast pain or tenderness
• headache
• vaginal itching or discharge

Please consult your doctor right away if any of the side effects do not go away.

Precautions

• Do consult with your doctor if you are allergic to any medicine. Allergic reactions can have adverse effects. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Tell your doctor about your medical history. This can help the doctor to recommend the medicine.

FAQs

Ques. What if I miss a dose?

Ans. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Ques. What may interact with this medication?

Ans. Do not take this medication with aromatase inhibitors like aminoglutethimide, anastrozole, exemestane, letrozole, and testolactone.

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Antibiotics used to treat tuberculosis like rifabutin, rifampin, and rifapentine
• Raloxifene or tamoxifen
• Warfarin

Ques. What should I watch for while using this medication?

Ans. This medication can make your body retain fluid, making your fingers, hands, or ankles swell. Your blood pressure can go up. Contact your care team if you feel you are retaining fluid.

Ques. What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Ans. Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Blood clot—pain, swelling, or warmth in the leg, shortness of breath, chest pain
• Breast tissue changes, new lumps, redness, pain, or discharge from the nipple
• Gallbladder problems—severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and an increase in blood pressure.