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ESTRADIOL PATCH
Estradiol patches (FemPatch, Menostar, Climara, Alora,
Esclim, Estraderm, Vivelle and others) contain a natural
estrogen female hormone. Estradiol is necessary for
maintaining normal female functions and is normally produced
by the ovaries. After menopause, the ovaries decrease their
making of this hormone. Estradiol can help relieve symptoms
of the menopause and also helps to prevent the onset of
osteoporosis. Estrogen helps to improve female functions in
women with hormonal imbalance or problems with their
ovaries. Generic estradiol patches are available for some
products. To determine if a suitable generic product is
available for your particular estradiol patch brand, discuss
options with your pharmacist.
Estradiol patches are for external use only. Follow
the instructions carefully on the prescription label. Some
women will only be prescribed the estradiol patches. Other
women may be prescribed to wear a patch with estrogen only
on certain days of the month, and will wear a patch
containing estradiol and a progestin on the rest of the
days.
One Estradiol patch generally contains enough
medication for several days. It is worn constantly until it
is time to replace with a new patch. Depending on the brand
of patch you are prescribed, the patch is replaced once or
twice a week, or as directed by your prescriber or health
care professional. Make a schedule and keep to it, so that
you can change your patch on the days you have marked.
Tear open the pouch but do not use scissors. Remove the
stiff protective liner, which is covering the adhesive. Your
patches will have directions that will tell you which areas
of the body you can apply your patch to. Apply the patch,
sticky side to the skin, to an area that is dry, clean and
hairless; avoid injured, irritated, calloused, or scarred
areas.
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