Oestrogel 0.06%

Indication

Oestrogel (Estradiol Gel 0.06%) is a transdermal oestrogen preparation used for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopausal and postmenopausal women to relieve symptoms of oestrogen deficiency including hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood disturbances. Also used in the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Ingredients

• Estradiol (Oestradiol) 0.6 mg per gram (0.06%)

Direction

Adults (women): Apply 1–2 doses (2.5–5 g of gel = 1.5–3 mg estradiol) once daily to the skin of the lower abdomen, upper arm, or inner thigh. Rotate application sites. Allow to dry for 2–3 minutes before covering. Do not apply to the breasts or genitals.

Side effects

• Breast tenderness or enlargement.
• Headache
• migraine.
• Nausea.
• Fluid retention
• oedema.
• Breakthrough bleeding or spotting (in women also taking progestogen).
• Mood changes.
• Skin reactions at application site (rare).
• Increased risk of VTE
• stroke
• and breast cancer with long
• term use.

Precautions

• Contraindicated in known or suspected oestrogen
• dependent malignancies (e.g. breast cancer
• endometrial cancer).
• Contraindicated in undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
• active or recent thromboembolic disease
• or severe hepatic impairment.
• Women with an intact uterus must use concomitant progestogen to prevent endometrial hyperplasia.
• Risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and stroke — assess risk before and during therapy.
• Regular mammograms and gynaecological examinations recommended during long
• term use.
• Not for use in premenopausal women or men without specialist advice.
• Avoid contact of gel with eyes or mucous membranes. Wash hands after application.