Estrace vs Estradiol
EstraceEstradiol
Estrogen Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Drug Class
Estrogen Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)- Menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, vaginal dryness) - Osteoporosis prevention - Hypoestrogenism - Hormone replacement therapy
Primary Indications
- Menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, vaginal atrophy) - Osteoporosis prevention - Hypoestrogenism - Used in transgender hormone therapyMicronized Estradiol
Active Ingredient
Estradiol (generic form)Oral tablets
Dosage Forms
Tablets, patches, creams, gels, injections- 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg tablets daily
Common Dosages
- Tablets: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg - Patches: 0.025–0.1 mg/day - Creams/Gels: Varies by brandA few days to a week
Onset of Action
A few days to a week24 hours (oral)
Duration of Action
Varies (depends on formulation)6–8 hours
Half-Life
6–36 hours (depending on route)- Nausea - Headache - Breast tenderness - Bloating - Mood changes
Common Side Effects
- Nausea - Breast pain - Headache - Fluid retention - Weight changes- Blood clots - Stroke - Breast cancer risk - Endometrial hyperplasia
Serious Side Effects
- Blood clots - Stroke - Increased risk of breast and endometrial cancerCategory X (Not for use in pregnancy)
Pregnancy Category
Category X (Not for use in pregnancy)No
Controlled Substance
NoNone
Addiction Potential
None- CYP3A4 inhibitors (increase estrogen levels) - Anticoagulants (alter clotting effects) - Thyroid hormones
Drug Interactions
- CYP3A4 inducers (reduce effectiveness) - Corticosteroids - Warfarin (may alter clotting)- Blood pressure - Breast exams - Endometrial health
Monitoring Parameters
- Blood pressure - Breast and pelvic exams - Liver function- Hot flashes - Night sweats - Mood swings
Withdrawal Symptoms
- Hot flashes - Sleep disturbances - Mood swingsMore expensive (brand name)
Cost and Availability
More affordable (generic available)Typically used as an oral tablet - Requires monitoring for cancer risk
Special Considerations
- Available in multiple forms for different needs - Preferred for transdermal use (patches, creams)Coupon code
CMP30
Coupon code
Coupon code
CMP30
