Women can develop menopausal symptoms at any age but most commonly between the age of 45-55 women may have to endure the distressing symptoms of menopause like hot flushes of their face, neck and chest, disturbed menstrual cycle, weight gain, night sweats, hair thinning and mood changes. All these occur due to a lack of oestrogen production as you age.
Estradot is a patch-based HRT recommended to women for whom this may be the most appropriate. Estradot is first line for women who have had a hysterectomy but can be used by women at all stages of the menopause journey even if they have not had a hysterectomy but in this scenario, they will require a progesterone based treatment in addition to the Estradot.
Estradot patches work towards supplementing the oestrogen deficiency in your body, thereby helping you overcome the symptoms of menopause.
Since the lack of oestrogen is the reason for conditions like hot flushes and many more discomforts during menopause, Estradot patches overcome all these by supplying your body with what it lacks, i.e.oestrogen. The HRT can provide relief of menopausal symptoms to women whilst they struggle with them. When using any HRT, it is crucial to get its use reviewed once a year.?Estradot is a patch and the oestrogen is released slowly and continuously by the patch to help relieve your symptoms.
Many women endure the symptoms of menopause for years; the impact of menopause could last up to 4 years on average. Instead of struggling in your daily life with distressing symptoms, wouldn't it be better to seek medical help and spend those years comfortably? That is where Estradot patches play a role. These patches will make your symptoms bearable by supplementing your body with the essential hormone that it's no longer producing naturally.?
These patches are available in various strengths ranging from 25, 37.5, 50, 75 or 100 mg. We will prescribe you a low dose to begin with and then we can move on to higher doses after discussion if you feel the symptoms are not well controlled by your current prescription.?
Since this is a patch-based Estradiol supplement, you will apply it directly to the skin. The oestrogen passes from the skin slowly into the bloodstream.
Where to apply the Estradot patch?
Once you break open the protective pouch over the patch, apply it directly, without delay onto a clean, dry, and cool patch of your skin. You can apply the estradiol patch onto a hairless area somewhere below your waist e.g thigh. It should remain covered under loose clothing and away from direct sunlight.
Ensure that you:
Do not apply the patch twice in the same spot
Do not apply it anywhere near the breasts
Do not apply it on cuts, spots, or inflamed skin
Do not apply cream, moisturiser or talcum powder before using the patch
Do not wear tight, elasticated waistband clothing when applying the patch
When to start using Estradot patch?
You begin using the patch when the menopausal symptoms become distressing and start to affect your daily life.
How to put the patch on?
Step 1 How to open and peel the estradiol patch?
The notches work as a guide, and you have to tear along the two edges. Then, bend and peel half of the strip while the protective backing faces you.?
Step 2 How to apply and press the estradiol patch?
Apply the open half of the patch to your skin whilst slowly removing the remaining strip. Firmly press down the patch using your palm to ensure that it is secure. In case you cut the patch, you must use adhesive tape to secure the patch.
Removing an estradiol patch
Start by peeling an edge of the patch away from the skin in a smooth motion.
Slowly remove the entire patch and fold it in half with the sticky side facing inside.
Dispose of it with the household rubbish. Make sure it remains out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not flush used patches.
When you remove the estradiol patch, you might notice some glue remain on your skin. Use warm soapy water or an adhesive remover to remove the remaining adhesive without damaging your skin. It will go away with time.
Changing the estradiol patches
To ensure a steady supply of hormones, you have to change your patch every three days i.e. 72 hours.
If you put your fist patch on |
Change on |
Change again on |
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Tuesday |
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Wednesday |
Thursday |
Sunday |
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Monday |
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Like every medication, Estradot patches also have specific information, which you need to know and understand before starting it. In addition to reading it here, you can also find these guidelines in the patient information leaflet, so make sure you read them thoroughly.
While you may experience spotting during the first few months of using Estradot patches, you will not necessarily face a monthly withdrawal bleed unless you are also taking progestogen tablets.
If you miss a dose, you might experience spotting, but it will subside soon. In case it continues after 6 months of using the patches, or after stopping treatment, make sure to consult your GP.
You should undergo regular medical and gynaecological check-ups if you take any HRT to review its effects once a year with your doctor.
You should be aware that women using HRT suffer a small increased risk of breast cancer, stroke and blood clots in the veins. You need to weigh this risk against the personal benefits of you taking HRT by thoroughly discussing it with our team. You will also have to examine your breasts regularly and immediately report any changes in your breasts to a medical professional.
If you have to undergo surgery, particularly abdominal surgery or orthopaedic surgery, your doctor may recommend you cease taking HRT usually four to six weeks prior.
Lastly, remember that HRT does not provide contraception for women who are considered fertile for two years after their last menstrual period if under 50, or for one year if over 50. If you are taking HRT and also require contraception, you will need to discuss this with our team.
Not every woman undergoing the effects of menopause will experience the same type of relief upon using Estradot patches or any other HRT. Women with certain existing health conditions or medical histories may have to take extra precautions when starting an HRT like this. These include women who:
Have a family history of breast cancer, fibrocystic breast disease, fibroids in the womb, endometriosis i.e. overgrowth of the lining of the womb, liver diseases, gallstones, or blood clots in the veins i.e. pulmonary embolism)
Take medicines like warfarin for blood clot prevention
Are suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus, a condition causing long-term inflammation of the skin and some internal organs
Have suffered or are at risk of recurrent miscarriage
Clinical obesity
Smokers
Severe varicose veins
Have a history of high blood pressure (hypertension).
Have heart conditions
Suffer from decreased kidney function, diabetes, migraines, epilepsy
Negative experiences previously with contraceptive pills
Steer clear of this HRT if you are allergic to one or any of Estradot patches' ingredients. Remember to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have experienced an allergy to determine an alternative treatment for you. Listed below are groups of women who are unsuitable candidates of Estradot patches. These include women with:
You or a family member have had breast cancer, oestrogen stimulated cancer, endometrial hyperplasia
Unexplained vaginal bleeding of unknown cause
Blood disorders leading to blood clots in the veins
A blood clot in a vein of the leg or pulmonary embolism in the lungs
Inflammation in a vein that has been caused by a blood clot
A recent encounter with a stroke or heart attack
Angina pectoris
Active liver diseases such as hepatitis, liver cancer
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, etc
There are some medicines that interact with the ingredients in Estradot patches resulting in complications. You must inform your GP or pharmacist if you are taking or plan to take the following:
Epilepsy medicines (e.g. phenytoin, carbamazepine)
Hepatitis C medicines (e.g. telaprevir)
St Johns Wort
Antifungal medicines containing ketoconazole
Tuberculosis medicines (e.g. rifampicin)
HIV medicines (e.g. nevirapine, ritonavir, nelfinavir)
Anti-infective medicines
The ideal way to order your medication from the comfort of your home is to place an order with a trusted online clinic MedsNow. Since Estradot patches are prescription-only HRT, you will need to undertake a quick, free, and simple online consultation, which will help determine ifEstradot is an ideal treatment option and will work as a prescription, as well as checking that the medication is right for you. Once you place your order, expect a discreet delivery of your medicines at your doorstep.
You should store Estradot patches in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and light. Make sure it remains hidden from the sight and reach of children.
How long does it take for Estradot patches to work?
Although noticeable changes vary from person to person, you should experience a reduction in your symptoms in a few weeks. If you fail to see any changes in your discomforts, talk to our clinic for a higher dose.
What happens when you stop using oestrogen patches?
The first and foremost effect of ending an HRT treatment, including the oestrogen patches, is returning menopausal symptoms like hot flushes. If you experience it within a few days, you might want to begin your medication again. It is advisable to stop your medication gradually to avoid experiencing any symptoms.
Where is the best place to apply an Estradot patch?
Apply estradiol patches to clean, dry, cool skin in the lower stomach area, your thighs or upper arm. You can apply some brands to the upper buttocks or the hips.
How to keep an estradiol patch on?
Make sure it is applied correctly and refrain from touching it too often.
How long does an estradiol patch stay in your system?
The estradiol patch can remain in your body anywhere from seven to ten days. The duration varies depending on its dosage and the type of HRT. If your menopause symptoms reappear during the process.
Can you wear two oestrogen patches?
It is not advisable to wear two patches simultaneously. You can schedule to change your patch on the same day each week as a reminder.
Can I order Estradot (UK) patches online?
Yes, with discreet packaging and home delivery from MedsNow, you can easily place your order online in the UK.
What to do if an estradiol patch falls off?
Firstly, try to stick it back with microporous tape. In case it does not secure well, you can use a new patch. Remember to apply it to a different area of your skin and leave it on only as per your previous wearing time. If a patch falls off, you don't have to alter your removal schedule to make up for it.
How often to change estradiol patch?
Replace your patch twice a week, i.e. once every 3 to 4 days. Follow your dosing schedule precisely. When changing your patch, remember to apply the new patch to a different area of your skin. We will discuss your dosage after determining your medical condition, bodily needs, and your response to the treatment.