Estrogen, a female sex hormone produced in the ovaries, is necessary to maintain and support healthy body function. The main ingredient in Estrace is estradiol, a form of estrogen that comes as either a vaginal cream or tablets. The tablets are typically used to treat the severe symptoms of menopause, such as burning, vaginal dryness, irritation, and in particular “hot flashes” (feelings of warmth in the face, neck, and sudden intense episodes of heat and sweating). Estrace is also effective at preventing and treating osteoporosis (thin, weak bones) in women, after menopause, in addition to replacing estrogen in women due to ovarian failure or other estrogen related conditions. Estrace can also be used as a cancer treatment in both men and women, as well as other purposes.
How to Use Estrace
All dosages should be based on the guidelines prescribed by your doctor, which may depend on your condition and medical history. It is recommended that you do not change the dosage or stop taking Estrace without your doctor’s approval.
For adults, the usual dose is 1-2 milligrams (mg) daily of Estrace tablets, and administration should be cyclic (for example, two weeks on and one week off). For Estrace vaginal cream, the usual dose ranges from 2-4 grams (g) daily use for 1 or 2 weeks, followed by a half dose for a similar time period. You should follow-up with a doctor every 3-6 months to have your dosage revaluated. Estrace tablets should be taken by mouth or without food. Upset stomach is a common side effect of taking Estrace, and if that occurs, reduce the irritation and pain by eating a meal.
These forms of estrogens do have the capacity to increase your risk of developing cancer in the uterus, so it important to report any unusual vaginal bleeding immediately to your doctor while you are using Estrace.
Other side effects may include the formation of dark skin patches (melisma) on the face. Exposure to the sun and harmful UV rays may increase the darkness of the patches, so avoid prolonged sun exposure and abstain from using sunlamps. Consult your doctor regarding the added protection of sunscreen and/or protective clothing. Estrace may also increase your chance of blood clots, especially women above the age of 35.
Other side effects may also include: headache, breast pain, spotting or breakthrough bleeding, abdominal cramps/bloating, nausea, vomiting, fluid retention, high blood pressure, depression, dizziness, fainting, memory problems, mental or mood changes, muscle pain, painful or difficult urination.
References
Drugs & Medications – estrace oral. (2005-2014). Retrieved from www.webmd.com: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-6784-estrace+oral.aspx
Estrace. (2014). Retrieved from www.pdrhealth.com: http://www.pdrhealth.com/drugs/estrace
Estrace Vaginal Cream. (2014). Retrieved from www.rxlist.com: http://www.rxlist.com/estrace-vaginal-cream-drug/indications-dosage.htm
