All of these products are used to reduce symptoms of menopause, including
feelings of warmth in the face, neck, and chest; the sudden intense
episodes of heat and sweating known as "hot flashes"; dry,
itchy external genitals; and vaginal irritation. They are also prescribed
for other conditions that cause low levels of estrogen, and some doctors
prescribe them for teenagers who fail to mature at the usual rate.
Along with diet, calcium supplements, and exercise, Alora, Estraderm,
Climara, Vivelle, and Vivelle-Dot are prescribed to prevent osteoporosis,
a condition in which the bones become brittle and easily broken. Most important fact about Estraderm TTS Without prescriptions
Because estrogens have been linked with an increased risk of breast,
uterine, and endometrial cancer (cancer in the lining of the uterus),
it is essential to have regular mammograms and checkups. Report any
unusual vaginal bleeding to your doctor immediately.
Hormone replacement therapy using estrogens, with or without progestin,
should not be used to prevent heart disease. Recent studies have confirmed
an increased rate of heart attack, stroke, and dangerous blood clots
among women taking estrogen or estrogen combinations for 5 years. Blood
clots can lead to phlebitis, stroke, heart attack, a loss of blood
supply to the lungs, a blockage in the blood vessels serving the eye,
and other serious disorders. Because of these risks, hormone replacement
therapy should be given at the lowest effective dose for the shortest
possible time. Your doctor will determine the dosage that is best for
you. How should you take Estraderm TTS?
Each patch is individually sealed in a protective pouch and is applied
directly to the skin.
A stiff protective liner covers the adhesive side of the patch. Remove
the liner by sliding it sideways between your thumb and index finger.
Holding the patch at one edge, remove the protective liner and discard
it. Try to avoid touching the adhesive. Use immediately after removing
the liner. If you are using Alora, Vivelle, or Vivelle-Dot peel off
one side of the protective liner and discard it. Use the other half
of the liner as a handle until you have applied the sticky area, then
fold back the remaining side of the patch, pull off the rest of the
liner, and smooth the second half of the patch onto your skin.
Apply the adhesive side to a clean, dry area of your skin on the trunk
of your body (including the buttocks and abdomen). Do not apply to
your breasts or waist. Firmly press the patch in place with the palm
of your hand for about 10 seconds, to make sure the edges are flat
against your skin. When first using Alora, start on the lower abdomen.
Climara is applied only to the abdomen or upper buttock, and is pressed
in place with the fingers.
Remove the patch slowly and carefully to avoid irritating your skin.
If any adhesive remains, let it dry for 15 minutes then gently rub
the area with an oil-based cream or lotion to remove the adhesive residue.
The used patch still contains active hormone. To dispose of it properly,
fold it in half so it sticks to itself before throwing it away.
Contact with water during bathing, swimming, or showering will not
affect the patch.
The application site must be rotated. Allow an interval of at least
1 week between applications to a particular site.
Alora, Esclim, Estraderm, Vivelle, and Vivelle-Dot patches should
be replaced twice a week; Climara once weekly.
If you miss a dose...
If you forget to apply a new patch when you are supposed to, do it
as soon as you remember. If it is almost time to change patches anyway,
skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not
apply more than the prescribed number of patches at a time.
Storage instructions...
Store the patches at room temperature, in their sealed pouches. Estraderm TTS side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
notify your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue using the estrogen patch.
* Side effects may include:
Anxiety, back pain, breakthrough bleeding, breast tenderness, constipati
