DrugDigest  
 
    Search
 
  Drugs & Herbs
  Conditions
  News & Reviews
7 Steps to Safety
Check For Savings
Senior Corner
Glossary
eBulletins
Home
Express Scripts Member?

Drugs & Vitamins

Printable Version Elestrin Transdermal Gel

Active Ingredients: Estradiol
Other Names: Divigel Gel, Elestrin Transdermal Gel, EstroGel Transdermal Gel
Drug Class: Topical Estrogens
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: No
Product Images & Descriptions:
Pronunciation:

What is/are Elestrin Transdermal Gel?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Elestrin Transdermal Gel? (Back to top)
ESTRADIOL contains the female hormone estrogen. It is used for symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. This medicine may also help relieve other symptoms like vaginal dryness, itching and increased or painful urination. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • blood vessel disease or blood clots
  • breast, cervical, endometrial, ovarian, liver, or uterine cancer
  • dementia
  • diabetes
  • gallbladder disease
  • heart disease or recent heart attack
  • high blood pressure
  • high cholesterol
  • high level of calcium in the blood
  • hysterectomy
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease
  • migraine headaches
  • stroke
  • systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  • tobacco smoker
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to estrogens, other hormones, soy, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions that come with your prescription. Spread the gel into a thin layer. It is not necessary to rub or massage the gel into the skin. Wash your hands with soap and water after applying the gel. Allow the gel to dry for up to 5 minutes before dressing. Avoid fire, flame or smoking until gel has dried. Do not apply to the breast, face or in or around the vagina. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

  • aromatase inhibitors like aminoglutethimide, anastrozole, exemestane, letrozole, testolactone

This medicine may also interact with the following:
  • antibiotics used to treat tuberculosis like rifabutin, rifampin and rifapentine
  • raloxifene or tamoxifen
  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • breakthrough bleeding and spotting
  • breast tissue changes or discharge
  • chest pain
  • confusion, forgetfulness
  • leg, arm or groin pain
  • nausea, vomiting
  • severe headaches
  • speech problems
  • stomach pain (severe)
  • sudden shortness of breath
  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • changes in emotions or mood
  • changes in sex drive or performance
  • increased or decreased appetite
  • skin rash, acne, or brown spots on the skin
  • symptoms of vaginal infection like itching, irritation or unusual discharge
  • weight gain

This list may not describe all possible side effects.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need a regular breast and pelvic exam. You should also discuss the need for regular mammograms with your health care professional, and follow his or her guidelines.

This medicine can make your body retain fluid, making your fingers, hands, or ankles swell. Your blood pressure can go up. Contact your doctor or health care professional if you feel you are retaining fluid.

If you have any reason to think you are pregnant; stop taking this medicine at once and contact your doctor or health care professional.

Tobacco smoking increases the risk of getting a blood clot or having a stroke, especially if you are more than 35 years old. You are strongly advised not to smoke.

If you wear contact lenses and notice visual changes, or if the lenses begin to feel uncomfortable, consult your eye care specialist.

If you are going to have elective surgery, you may need to stop taking this medicine beforehand. Consult your health care professional for advice prior to scheduling the surgery.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:January 30, 2008

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Elestrin Transdermal Gel

  Learn how Elestrin Transdermal Gel is/are used to treat:
  • Urinary Incontinence

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Elestrin Transdermal Gel, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



    Printable Version     Recommend this page to a friend