Estradiol - Overview

Estradiol prescription medication is the main form of estrogen used in hormone therapy in menopausal and perimenopausal women. Patients in need of an estradiol prescription can use Push Health to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe the medication when appropriate to do so.

What Is Estradiol Used For?

Estradiol, marketed in various preparations under the brand names such as Climara, Estrace, Imvexxy, Vivelle-Dot and Vagifem, is a hormone medication sometimes prescribed to women (along with progesterone) for perimenopause treatment, menopause, and other conditions requiring estradiol replacement for hormone balance. Specifically, estradiol is commonly prescribed for:

• Reduce vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats)
• Improve vaginal dryness, irritation, and pain with sex due to genitourinary syndrome of menopause
• Help prevent osteoporosis in selected postmenopausal women
• Provide estrogen replacement after premature ovarian insufficiency or surgical menopause

Estradiol - the most potent form of estrogen in the body - may also help with cognition, memory, mood disorders, and sleep issues. Estradiol might have neuroprotective effects. The hormone itself is primarily produced by the ovarian follicle in premenopausal women and levels change with aging.

One form of estradiol medication, ethinyl estradiol, is a common ingredient found in birth control medications. Estradiol synthesis is reduced by aromatase inhibitor enzymes like anastrozole (Arimidex) and letrozole (Femara).

Estradiol is sometimes used off-label in gender-affirming care or other endocrine disorders. Forms of the medication are sometimes combined with progesterone in combination hormone therapy (e.g. Bijuva, Prempro).

Estrogen Replacement for Menopause and Perimenopause

Estrogen replacement therapy is commonly used to help with symptoms from perimenopause and menopause. Many women report relief from symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats within weeks. Other reported improvements include better sleep, less vaginal discomfort and an improved mood. Some women also report better skin health and bone health may be a long term benefit.

Estradiol - Dosage and Cost

The dosage of estradiol patches and creams - commonly prescribed forms - used varies widely. Patches are typically prescribed to be changed on a scheduled basis (e.g. twice per week) while creams are often applied daily. Ultimately, the regimen used depends on the symptoms and responses of the patient and the judgment of the medical provider.

Estradiol medication is moderately affordable, costing, for example, under $40 for 1 carton of estradiol 0.05 mg / day of eight patches for twice weekly use. Prices vary, depending on whether generic or branded options are utilized. Prescription savings cards can sometimes be used to reduce costs. Insurance plans may also help cover the cost of estrogen.

Form	Uses	Dosing	Absorption
Patch / gel	Hot flashes, systemic symptoms	Twice weekly	Systemic
Cream / insert	Vaginal discomfort	2-7 days / week	Local (mostly)
Oral tablet	Systemic symptoms	Once daily	Systemic

Can I Buy Estradiol Online?

Estradiol medications require a prescription in the United States and are not available over the counter. Push Health can connect people with a licensed medical provider who can prescribe the medication, including cream, tablet and patch forms, when appropriate to do so.

Estradiol - Side Effects

Estradiol medication use in all forms can cause side effects. Side effects that can result from medication use include dryness, itching, redness, irritation, headache, breast tenderness, irregular vaginal bleeding, nausea and vomiting. Given its effects on adipose tissue, estradiol can also impact body morphology. In most cases, the lowest effective dose should be used and regular reassessments should be performed.

Serious risks include blood clots, stroke, heart attack, gallbladder disease and endometrial cancer. These more serious risks depend on a multitude of variables, including age, delivery route, and baseline health.

Chronic or heavy alcohol use may affect estradiol metabolism. Patients should discuss any planned alcohol use with their medical provider. People with allergies to estradiol / estrogen should avoid using the medication. Discuss other questions with your medical provider.

How to Get Estradiol with Push Health

1. Complete a brief health intake. Answer some questions about your health history, including your medical history, medications and menopause or perimenopause symptoms.
2. Get connected with a licensed medical provider. A provider will review your information and evaluate which form of estradiol - patch, gel, spray or cream - is appropriate for your situation. Same-day consultations are available.
3. Receive a prescription electronically. If estradiol is appropriate, your provider will send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice.
4. Get your estradiol medication. Estradiol is available at many retail and delivery pharmacies. If estradiol patches are unavailable, your provider can help find an alternative form of estradiol that might work for you.

No health insurance or subscription is required. Medical providers are available now. Fast, convenient, private and affordable.

More Estradiol Information

• Estradiol - Medline