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Elestrin HRT Medication
Elestrin™ (estradiol gel) is a medication used for treating certain menopausal symptoms, specifically hot flashes and night sweats. It comes in the form of a gel that is applied daily to the skin of the upper arm and shoulder. As a form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the medication helps to relieve vasomotor symptoms by replacing the estrogen hormone that the ovaries no longer produce in menopausal women.
Although it is applied to the skin, the estradiol in Elestrin is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream, reaching the entire body. This product is generally well tolerated; however, as with any medication, side effects are possible. Common reactions may include:
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Symptoms of nasal or throat irritation, such as with the common cold.
(Click Elestrin to learn more about this HRT medication, including whether you can buy it in generic form, safety issues to discuss with your healthcare provider, and what to do if you miss a dose.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD