(es tra DYE ole & LEE voe nor jes trel)
Moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms: Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause in women with an intact uterus
Osteoporosis prevention: Prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women with an intact uterus
Limitations of use: Osteoporosis: For use only in women at significant risk of osteoporosis and for whom other nonestrogen medications are not considered appropriate
Anaphylactic reaction or angioedema with estradiol or levonorgestrel; carcinoma of the breast (known, suspected, or history of); estrogen-dependent tumor (known or suspected); undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding; history of or current thrombophlebitis or venous thromboembolic disorders (including DVT, PE); history of or active arterial thromboembolic disease (eg, stroke, MI); hepatic dysfunction or disease; known protein C, protein S, antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders; known or suspected pregnancy
There is an increased risk of endometrial cancer in a woman with a uterus who uses unopposed estrogens. Adding a progestin to estrogen therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer. Adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated, should be undertaken to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding.
Cardiovascular disease:Estrogens and progestins should not be used for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. The Womens Health Initiative (WHI) study reported increased risks of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, pulmonary emboli, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in postmenopausal women 50 to 79 years of age during 5.6 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate 2.5 mg relative to placebo.
Estrogen-alone therapy should not be used for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. The WHI estrogen-alone substudy reported increased risks of stroke and DVT in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age) during 7.1 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg alone, relative to placebo.
Breast cancer:The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study reported increased risks of invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women 50 to 79 years of age during 5.6 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate 2.5 mg relative to placebo.
Dementia:Estrogens and progestins should not be used for the prevention of dementia. The Women's Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS), a substudy of WHI, reported increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years and older during 4 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg plus medroxyprogesterone 2.5 mg relative to placebo. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women.
Estrogen-alone therapy should not be used for the prevention of dementia. The WHIMS estrogen-alone ancillary study of the WHI reported an increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years and older during 5.2 years of treatment with daily conjugated estrogens 0.625 mg alone, relative to placebo. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women.
Risks vs benefits:In the absence of comparable data, these risks should be assumed to be similar for other doses of conjugated estrogens and other dosage forms of estrogens. Prescribe estrogens with or without progestins at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman.
Note: Patients should be treated with the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration, consistent with treatment goals.
Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis: Adult females with an intact uterus: Transdermal: Estradiol 0.045 mg/levonorgestrel 0.015 mg: Apply one patch weekly. When used for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, evaluate to see if therapy is still needed/attempt to discontinue every 3-6 months.
Refer to adult dosing.
No dosage adjustment provided in manufacturers labeling. Total estradiol serum concentrations may be excessive in women with end stage renal disease receiving hemodialysis.
Use is contraindicated in women with hepatic impairment or disease.
Transdermal patch: When initiating therapy, women not using a continuous estrogen or estrogen plus progestin may apply the patch at any time. Women already on hormonal therapy should complete their current cycle prior to initiating the patch. If bleeding occurs when the cycle is completed with the previous therapy, the first day of bleeding is an appropriate time to initiate the patch.
The patch should be applied immediately after taking out of pouch and removing the protective lining. Apply the adhesive side of the patch once weekly to a clean, dry, fold-free area of the lower abdomen or upper quadrant of buttock; avoid application to waistline or areas where sitting would dislodge the patch. Do not apply to irritated, oily, damaged or broken skin. Do not apply to breasts. Rotate site with each application; allow an interval of ≥1 week between applications to the same site. Avoid touching adhesive with fingers. Press patch in place for ≥10 seconds to ensure proper application, especially around the edges. If patch falls off, may reapply same patch or apply a new patch to another area of the lower abdomen and follow the original treatment schedule. If patch lifts, apply pressure to maintain adhesion. When taking off the patch, remove slowly to avoid irritating the skin. Allow skin to dry for 15 minutes, then gently rub area with an oil-based cream or lotion if needed to remove any remaining adhesive. Prior to discarding, fold patch so that it sticks to itself. Do not discard by flushing in the toilet.
Hazardous agent; use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [group 2]).
Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake when used for the prevention of osteoporosis.
Store at 20 °C to 25 °C (68 °F to 77 °F); excursions are permitted between 15 °C and 30 °C (59 °F and 86 °F). Keep pouch sealed until ready to use.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Patch, transdermal:
ClimaraPro: Estradiol 0.045 mg and levonorgestrel 0.015 mg per 24 hours (4s) [22 cm2; contains estradiol 4.4 mg and levonorgestrel 1.39 mg]
Acitretin: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Given the potential for progestin-only preparations to fail to prevent pregnancy during acitretin therapy, such products should not be relied upon. Alternative, nonhormonal forms of contraception must be employed during acitretin therapy. Consider therapy modification
Ajmaline: Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Ajmaline. Specifically, the risk for cholestasis may be increased. Monitor therapy
Amodiaquine: CYP2C8 Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Amodiaquine. Avoid combination
Anastrozole: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anastrozole. Avoid combination
Anthrax Immune Globulin (Human): Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the thrombogenic effect of Anthrax Immune Globulin (Human). Monitor therapy
Anticoagulants: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the anticoagulant effect of Anticoagulants. More specifically, the potential prothrombotic effects of some estrogens and progestin-estrogen combinations may counteract anticoagulant effects. Management: Carefully weigh the prospective benefits of estrogens against the potential increased risk of procoagulant effects and thromboembolism. Use is considered contraindicated under some circumstances. Refer to related guidelines for specific recommendations. Consider therapy modification
Anticoagulants: Progestins may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticoagulants. More specifically, the potential prothrombotic effects of some progestins and progestin-estrogen combinations may counteract anticoagulant effects. Management: Carefully weigh the prospective benefits of progestins against the potential increased risk of procoagulant effects and thromboembolism. Use is considered contraindicated under some circumstances. Refer to related guidelines for specific recommendations. Consider therapy modification
Antidiabetic Agents: Hyperglycemia-Associated Agents may diminish the therapeutic effect of Antidiabetic Agents. Monitor therapy
Aprepitant: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Alternative or additional methods of contraception should be used both during treatment with aprepitant or fosaprepitant and for at least one month following the last aprepitant/fosaprepitant dose. Consider therapy modification
Artemether: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Consider the use of an alternative (i.e., non-hormonal) means of contraception in all women of childbearing potential who are using artemether. Consider therapy modification
Ascorbic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Estrogen Derivatives. Monitor therapy
Atazanavir: May increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). However, atazanavir may lead to decreased ethinyl estradiol concentrations and decreased effectiveness of oral contraceptive products. Management: Consider an alternative or additional method of contraception, particularly with combined estrogen/progestin products. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate may be used without a need for additional contraception. Consider therapy modification
Barbiturates: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Use of alternative, nonhormonal contraceptives is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Bexarotene (Systemic): May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Women of childbearing potential receiving bexarotene should use two reliable forms of contraception (including at least one nonhormonal form). Consider therapy modification
Bile Acid Sequestrants: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Administer oral progestin-containing contraceptives at least 1-4 hours prior to or 4-6 hours after administration of a bile acid sequestrant. Consider therapy modification
Boceprevir: May increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). This has been seen specifically with norethindrone. Boceprevir may increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). This has been seen specifically with drospirenone. Management: Patients receiving boceprevir, ribavirin, and peginterferon alfa should use two reliable forms of contraception. Norethindrone/ethinyl estradiol may be used for one of these when norethindrone dose is at least 1 mg/day. Avoid drospirenone. Consider therapy modification
Bosentan: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Use an alternative (i.e., non-hormonal) means of contraception for all women of childbearing potential who are using bosentan, and do not rely on hormonal contraceptives alone. Consider therapy modification
C1 inhibitors: Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the thrombogenic effect of C1 inhibitors. Monitor therapy
C1 inhibitors: Progestins may enhance the thrombogenic effect of C1 inhibitors. Monitor therapy
Cannabis: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP1A2 Substrates. Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Use of alternative, nonhormonal contraceptives is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Carfilzomib: May enhance the thrombogenic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Consider alternative, non-hormonal methods of contraception in patients requiring therapy with carfilzomib. Consider therapy modification
Chenodiol: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Chenodiol. Management: Monitor clinical response to chenodiol closely when used together with any estrogen derivative. Monitor therapy
CloBAZam: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Consider therapy modification
Cobicistat: May increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Consider an alternative, non-hormone-based contraceptive in patients receiving cobicistat-containing products. Consider therapy modification
Corticosteroids (Systemic): Estrogen Derivatives may increase the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Monitor therapy
CYP1A2 Inducers (Strong): May increase the metabolism of CYP1A2 Substrates. Management: Consider an alternative for one of the interacting drugs. Some combinations may be specifically contraindicated. Consult appropriate manufacturer labeling. Consider therapy modification
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May increase the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Consider an alternative for one of the interacting drugs. Some combinations may be specifically contraindicated. Consult appropriate manufacturer labeling. Consider therapy modification
Cyproterone: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP1A2 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Dabrafenib: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Seek alternatives to the CYP3A4 substrate when possible. If concomitant therapy cannot be avoided, monitor clinical effects of the substrate closely (particularly therapeutic effects). Consider therapy modification
Dabrafenib: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Females of reproductive potential should use an alternative, highly effective, non-hormonal means of contraception during and at least 2 weeks (dabrafenib alone) or 4 months (dabrafenib + trametinib) after discontinuation of dabrafenib treatment. Consider therapy modification
Darunavir: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Consider using an alternative or additional means of contraception. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate may be used without a need for additional contraception. Consider therapy modification
Deferasirox: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Dehydroepiandrosterone: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Estrogen Derivatives. Avoid combination
Efavirenz: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Use an alternative or additional method of contraception due to possibly decreased contraceptive effectiveness. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate does not appear to participate in this interaction. Consider therapy modification
Enzalutamide: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Concurrent use of enzalutamide with CYP3A4 substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index should be avoided. Use of enzalutamide and any other CYP3A4 substrate should be performed with caution and close monitoring. Consider therapy modification
Eslicarbazepine: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Alternative, non-hormonal means of birth control should be considered for women of child-bearing potential. Consider therapy modification
Exemestane: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Exemestane. Avoid combination
Exenatide: May decrease the serum concentration of Oral Contraceptive (Progestins). Management: Administer oral contraceptives at least one hour prior to exenatide. Consider therapy modification
Felbamate: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Contraceptive failure is possible. Use of an alternative, nonhormonal method of contraception is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Flibanserin: Contraceptives (Progestins) may increase the serum concentration of Flibanserin. Monitor therapy
Fosamprenavir: Contraceptives (Progestins) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Fosamprenavir. Fosamprenavir may decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Consider using an alternative or additional means of contraception. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate may be used without a need for additional contraception. Consider therapy modification
Fosaprepitant: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). The active metabolite aprepitant is likely responsible for this effect. Management: Alternative or additional methods of contraception should be used both during treatment with aprepitant or fosaprepitant and for at least one month following the last aprepitant/fosaprepitant dose. Consider therapy modification
Fosphenytoin: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Contraceptive failure is possible. Use of an alternative, nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Griseofulvin: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Avoid combination
Hemin: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Hemin. Avoid combination
Herbs (Estrogenic Properties): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Estrogen Derivatives. Monitor therapy
Herbs (Progestogenic Properties) (eg, Bloodroot, Yucca): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Progestins. Monitor therapy
Hyaluronidase: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Hyaluronidase. Management: Patients receiving estrogens (particularly at larger doses) may not experience the desired clinical response to standard doses of hyaluronidase. Larger doses of hyaluronidase may be required. Consider therapy modification
Immune Globulin: Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the thrombogenic effect of Immune Globulin. Monitor therapy
Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the diagnostic effect of Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide. Avoid combination
LamoTRIgine: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Women using progestin-only "minipill " products may be at risk for contraceptive failure; it is unclear if other progestin-containing products would be significantly impacted. Alternative, non-hormonal, means of contraception are recommended. Consider therapy modification
Lenalidomide: Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the thrombogenic effect of Lenalidomide. Monitor therapy
Lesinurad: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Use of an additional, nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended in patients being treated with lesinurad who desire effective contraception. Consider therapy modification
Lixisenatide: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Administer oral contraceptives 1 hour before or at least 11 hours after administration of lixisenatide. Consider therapy modification
Lopinavir: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Lopinavir may increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Consider using an alternative or additional means of contraception. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and etonogestrel implants may be used without a need for additional contraception. Consider therapy modification
Lumacaftor: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Do not rely on hormone-based contraceptives with concurrent use of lumacaftor/ivacaftor; an alternative, non-hormonal, method of contraception should be used if this combination is required. Consider therapy modification
Metreleptin: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Metreleptin may increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Monitor therapy
MiFEPRIStone: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). MiFEPRIStone may increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Women of childbearing potential should use an effective, nonhormonal means of contraception during and 4 weeks following mifepristone treatment. Consider therapy modification
Mitotane: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Doses of CYP3A4 substrates may need to be adjusted substantially when used in patients being treated with mitotane. Consider therapy modification
Mycophenolate: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Use of an additional or alternative (nonhormonal) method of contraception should be considered. Consider therapy modification
Nelfinavir: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Use an alternative or additional method of contraception due to possibly decreased contraceptive effectiveness. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate does not appear to participate in this interaction. Consider therapy modification
Nevirapine: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Instruct patients receiving nevirapine to use an alternative or additional nonhormonal contraceptive. Nevirapine product labeling however suggests that depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate may be used as a sole method of contraception. Consider therapy modification
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): May enhance the thrombogenic effect of Estrogen Derivatives. NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor) may increase the serum concentration of Estrogen Derivatives. Monitor therapy
Osimertinib: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Osimertinib may decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Osimertinib: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP1A2 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Ospemifene: Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Ospemifene. Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Ospemifene. Avoid combination
OXcarbazepine: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Contraceptive failure is possible. Use of an additional or alternative, nonhormonal method of contraception is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Perampanel: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Patients should use an alternative, non-hormonal based form of contraception for the duration of concurrent perampanel. Both oral and non-oral progestin-based contraceptives are likely to be impacted by this interaction. Consider therapy modification
P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 Inducers: May decrease the serum concentration of P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 Substrates. P-glycoprotein inducers may also further limit the distribution of p-glycoprotein substrates to specific cells/tissues/organs where p-glycoprotein is present in large amounts (e.g., brain, T-lymphocytes, testes, etc.). Monitor therapy
P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 Substrates. P-glycoprotein inhibitors may also enhance the distribution of p-glycoprotein substrates to specific cells/tissues/organs where p-glycoprotein is present in large amounts (e.g., brain, T-lymphocytes, testes, etc.). Monitor therapy
Phenytoin: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Contraceptive failure is possible. Use of an alternative, nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Pomalidomide: May enhance the thrombogenic effect of Estrogen Derivatives. Management: Canadian pomalidomide labeling recommends caution with use of hormone replacement therapy and states that hormonal contraceptives are not recommended. US pomalidomide labeling does not contain these specific recommendations. Consider therapy modification
Pomalidomide: Progestins may enhance the thrombogenic effect of Pomalidomide. Management: Canadian pomalidomide labeling recommends caution with use of hormone replacement therapy and states that hormonal contraceptives are not recommended. US pomalidomide labeling does not contain these specific recommendations. Consider therapy modification
Primidone: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Use of alternative, nonhormonal contraceptives is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Prucalopride: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Consider therapy modification
Ranolazine: May increase the serum concentration of P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Retinoic Acid Derivatives: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Retinoic Acid Derivatives may decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Two forms of effective contraception should be used in patients receiving retinoic acid derivatives. Particularly, microdosed progesterone-only preparations may be inadequately effective. Exceptions: Adapalene; Bexarotene (Topical); Tretinoin (Topical). Consider therapy modification
Rifamycin Derivatives: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Contraceptive failure is possible. Use of an alternative, nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended. Consider therapy modification
ROPINIRole: Estrogen Derivatives may increase the serum concentration of ROPINIRole. Monitor therapy
Saquinavir: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Use an alternative or additional method of contraception due to possibly decreased contraceptive effectiveness. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate does not appear to participate in this interaction. Consider therapy modification
Selegiline: Contraceptives (Progestins) may increase the serum concentration of Selegiline. Monitor therapy
Siltuximab: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Somatropin: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Somatropin. Shown to be a concern with oral hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women. Management: Monitor for reduced growth hormone efficacy. A larger somatropin dose may be required to reach treatment goal. This interaction does not appear to apply to non-orally administered estrogens (e.g., transdermal, vaginal ring). Consider therapy modification
St Johns Wort: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Consider using a product other than St John's wort. Contraceptive failure is possible. Use of an alternative, nonhormonal contraceptive is recommended. Consider therapy modification
St John's Wort: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Consider an alternative for one of the interacting drugs. Some combinations may be specifically contraindicated. Consult appropriate manufacturer labeling. Consider therapy modification
Sugammadex: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Patients receiving any hormonal contraceptive (oral or non-oral) should use an additional, nonhormonal contraceptive method during and for 7 days following sugammadex treatment. Consider therapy modification
Telaprevir: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Two different nonhormonal forms of contraception are required for women of childbearing potential taking telaprevir. Hormonal contraceptives may be less effective during concurrent telaprevir and for up to 2 weeks after telaprevir discontinuation. Consider therapy modification
Teriflunomide: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP1A2 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Thalidomide: Contraceptives (Progestins) may enhance the thrombogenic effect of Thalidomide. Monitor therapy
Thalidomide: Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the thrombogenic effect of Thalidomide. Monitor therapy
Theophylline Derivatives: Estrogen Derivatives may increase the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Exceptions: Dyphylline. Monitor therapy
Thyroid Products: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Thyroid Products. Monitor therapy
Tipranavir: Estrogen Derivatives may enhance the dermatologic adverse effect of Tipranavir. The combination of tipranavir/ritonavir and ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone was associated with a high incidence of skin rash. Tipranavir may decrease the serum concentration of Estrogen Derivatives. Management: Women using hormonal contraceptives should consider alternative, non-hormonal forms of contraception. Consider therapy modification
Tipranavir: May increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Use an alternative or additional method of contraception due to possibly decreased contraceptive effectiveness. Injected depot medroxyprogesterone acetate does not appear to participate in this interaction. Consider therapy modification
TiZANidine: CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase the serum concentration of TiZANidine. Management: Avoid these combinations when possible. If combined use cannot be avoided, initiate tizanidine at an adult dose of 2 mg and increase in 2-4 mg increments based on patient response. Monitor for increased effects of tizanidine, including adverse reactions. Consider therapy modification
Tocilizumab: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Topiramate: May decrease the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Management: Caution patients that this combination may be associated with reduced contraceptive effectiveness. Consider adding an additional (non-hormonal) contraceptive method. Consider therapy modification
Tranexamic Acid: Contraceptives (Progestins) may enhance the thrombogenic effect of Tranexamic Acid. Avoid combination
Ulipristal: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Progestins. Progestins may diminish the therapeutic effect of Ulipristal. Management: Ulipristal for uterine fibroids (Canadian indication): avoid progestins within 12 days of stopping ulipristal; as emergency contraceptive (U.S. indication): avoid progestins within 5 days of stopping ulipristal. Avoid combination
Ursodiol: Estrogen Derivatives may diminish the therapeutic effect of Ursodiol. Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Contraceptives (Progestins) may diminish the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. In contrast, enhanced anticoagulant effects have also been noted with some products. Management: When possible, concomitant hormonal contraceptives and coumarin derivatives should be avoided in order to eliminate the risk of thromboembolic disorders. Consider using an alternative, nonhormonal contraceptive. Consider therapy modification
Voriconazole: May increase the serum concentration of Contraceptives (Progestins). Contraceptives (Progestins) may increase the serum concentration of Voriconazole. Monitor therapy
Yearly physical examination that includes blood pressure and Papanicolaou smear, breast exam, mammogram. Monitor for signs of endometrial cancer. Adequate diagnostic measures, including endometrial sampling, if indicated, should be performed to rule out malignancy in all cases of undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding. Monitor for loss of vision, sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, migraine; signs and symptoms of thromboembolic disorders; glycemic control in patients with diabetes; lipid profiles in patients being treated for hyperlipidemias; thyroid function in patients on thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Menopausal symptoms: Assess need for therapy at 3- to 6-month intervals
Prevention of osteoporosis: Bone density measurement
Percentages reported as greater in ClimaraPro when compared to estradiol alone.
>10%:
Central nervous system: Depression (12%)
Genitourinary: Vaginal hemorrhage (78%), mastalgia (40%)
Local: Application site reaction (86%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Back pain (13%)
Respiratory: Upper respiratory tract infection (28%)
1% to 10%: Cardiovascular: Edema (8%)
Total estradiol serum concentrations may be excessive in women with end stage renal disease receiving hemodialysis.
Estrogens are poorly metabolized in women with hepatic dysfunction.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
- Breast cancer: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Based on data from the Women 's Health Initiative (WHI) studies, an increased risk of invasive breast cancer was observed in postmenopausal women using conjugated estrogens (CE) in combination with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). This risk may be associated with duration of use and declines once combined therapy is discontinued (Chlebowski, 2009). The risk of invasive breast cancer was decreased in postmenopausal women with a hysterectomy using CE only, regardless of weight. However, the risk was not significantly decreased in women at high risk for breast cancer (family history of breast cancer, personal history of benign breast disease) (Anderson, 2012). An increase in abnormal mammogram findings has also been reported with estrogen alone or in combination with progestin therapy. Estrogen use may also lead to severe hypercalcemia in patients with breast cancer and bone metastases; discontinue estrogen if hypercalcemia occurs. Use is contraindicated in women with known or suspected breast cancer.
- Dementia: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Estrogens with or without progestin should not be used to prevent dementia. In the Women 's Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS), an increased incidence of probable dementia was observed in women ≥65 years of age taking CE alone or in combination with MPA.
- Endometrial cancer: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: The use of unopposed estrogen in women with an intact uterus is associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer. The addition of a progestin to estrogen therapy may decrease the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, a precursor to endometrial cancer. Adequate diagnostic measures, including endometrial sampling if indicated, should be performed to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding. The risk of endometrial cancer is dose and duration dependant; risk appears to be greatest with use ≥5 years and may persist following discontinuation of therapy. Estrogens may exacerbate endometriosis. Malignant transformation of residual endometrial implants has been reported posthysterectomy with unopposed estrogen therapy. Consider adding a progestin in women with residual endometriosis posthysterectomy.
- Inherited thrombophilia: Women with inherited thrombophilias (eg, protein C or S deficiency) may have increased risk of venous thromboembolism (DeSancho, 2010; van Vlijmen, 2011). Use is contraindicated in women with protein C, protein S, antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders.
- Lipid effects: Estrogens are generally associated with lipid effects such as increased HDL-cholesterol and decreased LDL-cholesterol. Triglycerides may also be increased; consider discontinuation of therapy if pancreatitis occurs.
- Ovarian cancer: Postmenopausal estrogens with or without progestins may increase the risk of ovarian cancer; however, the absolute risk to an individual woman is small. Although results from various studies are not consistent, risk does not appear to be significantly associated with the duration, route, or dose of therapy. In one study, the risk decreased after 2 years following discontinuation of therapy (M ¸rch, 2009). Although the risk of ovarian cancer is rare, women who are at an increased risk (eg, family history) should be counseled about the association (NAMS, 2012).
- Retinal vascular thrombosis: Estrogens may cause retinal vascular thrombosis; discontinue pending examination if migraine, loss of vision, proptosis, diplopia, or other visual disturbances occur; discontinue permanently if papilledema or retinal vascular lesions are observed on examination.
Disease-related concerns:
- Asthma: Use caution in patients with asthma; may exacerbate disease.
- Carbohydrate intolerance: May have adverse effects on glucose tolerance; use caution in women with diabetes.
- Cardiovascular disease: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Estrogens with or without progestin should not be used to prevent cardiovascular disease. Using data from the Women 's Health Initiative (WHI) studies, an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and stroke has been reported with CE and an increased risk of DVT, stroke, pulmonary emboli (PE) and myocardial infarction (MI) has been reported with CE with MPA in postmenopausal women 50-79 years of age. Additional risk factors include diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, SLE, obesity, tobacco use, and/or history of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Risk factors should be managed appropriately; discontinue use if adverse cardiovascular events occur or are suspected. Use is contraindicated in women with active DVT, PE, active arterial thromboembolic disease or a history of these conditions.
- Diseases exacerbated by fluid retention: Estrogens plus progestins may cause fluid retention; use with caution in patients with diseases which may be exacerbated by fluid retention, including cardiac or renal dysfunction.
- Epilepsy: Use caution with epilepsy; may exacerbate disease.
- Gallbladder disease: Use of postmenopausal estrogen may be associated with an increased risk of gallbladder disease requiring surgery.
- Hepatic dysfunction: Estrogens are poorly metabolized in patients with hepatic dysfunction. Use caution with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with prior estrogen use or pregnancy. Discontinue if jaundice develops or if acute or chronic hepatic disturbances occur. Use is contraindicated in women with hepatic impairment or disease.
- Hepatic hemangiomas: Use with caution in patients with hepatic hemangiomas; may exacerbate disease.
- Hereditary angioedema: Exogenous estrogens may exacerbate angioedema symptoms in women with hereditary angioedema.
- Hypertension: Estrogens may cause substantial increases in blood pressure.
- Hypoparathyroidism: Use caution in patients with hypoparathyroidism; estrogen-induced hypocalcemia may occur.
- Migraine: Use caution with migraine; may exacerbate disease.
- Porphyria: Use with caution in patients with porphyria; may exacerbate disease.
- SLE: Use with caution in patients with SLE; may exacerbate disease.
Concurrent drug therapy issues:
- Thyroid replacement therapy: Estrogens may increase thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) levels leading to increased circulating total thyroid hormone levels. Women on thyroid replacement therapy may require higher doses of thyroid hormone while receiving estrogens.
Special populations:
- Premenopausal women: Not for use prior to menopause.
- Surgical patients: Whenever possible, should be discontinued at least 4-6 weeks prior to elective surgery associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism or during periods of prolonged immobilization.
Dosage form specific issues:
- Transdermal patch: Following application, avoid exposure of the transdermal patch to prolonged periods of sunlight. Only one patch should be worn at any one time during the 7-day dosing interval. Swimming, bathing, or using a sauna while wearing the patch may decrease the adhesion of the patch and the delivery of the estrogen and progestin.
Special handling:
- Hazardous agent: Use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [group 2]).
Other warnings/precautions:
- Laboratory changes: The use of estrogens and/or progestins may change the results of some laboratory tests (eg, coagulation factors, lipids, glucose tolerance, binding proteins). The dose, route, and the specific estrogen/progestin influences these changes. In addition, personal risk factors (eg, cardiovascular disease, smoking, diabetes, age) also contribute to adverse events; use of specific products may be contraindicated in women with certain risk factors.
- Risks vs benefits: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Estrogens with or without progestin should be used for the shortest duration possible at the lowest effective dose consistent with treatment goals. Patients should be reevaluated as clinically appropriate to determine if treatment is still necessary. Available data related to treatment risks are from Women 's Health Initiative (WHI) studies, which evaluated oral CE 0.625 mg with or without MPA 2.5 mg relative to placebo in postmenopausal women. Other combinations and dosage forms of estrogens and progestins were not studied. Outcomes reported from clinical trials using CE with or without MPA should be assumed to be similar for other doses and other dosage forms of estrogens and progestins until comparable data becomes available. Women who are early in menopause, who are in good cardiovascular health, and who are at low risk for adverse cardiovascular events can be considered candidates for estrogen with or without progestin therapy for the relief of menopausal symptoms (ACOG 565, 2013). Use of a transdermal product should be considered over an oral agent in women requiring systemic therapy who have risk factors for venous thromboembolism or coronary heart disease (ACOG 556, 2013; Schenck-Gustafsson, 2011; Tremollieres, 2011).
Not for use prior to menopause; use during pregnancy is contraindicated. Refer to individual monographs.
Estrogens are responsible for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. Estradiol is the principle intracellular human estrogen and is more potent than estrone and estriol at the receptor level; it is the primary estrogen secreted prior to menopause. Following menopause, estrone and estrone sulfate are more highly produced. Estrogens modulate the pituitary secretion of gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone through a negative feedback system; estrogen replacement reduces elevated levels of these hormones in postmenopausal women.
Levonorgestrel inhibits gonadotropin production; when used in this combination, it counteracts the proliferative effects of estradiol on the endometrium.
Serum: Topical: Estradiol (mean): 2-2.5 days; Levonorgestrel: 2.5 days
Estradiol: 3 ± 0.67 hours; Levonorgestrel: 28 ± 6.4 hours
- Discuss specific use of drug and side effects with patient as it relates to treatment. (HCAHPS: During this hospital stay, were you given any medicine that you had not taken before? Before giving you any new medicine, how often did hospital staff tell you what the medicine was for? How often did hospital staff describe possible side effects in a way you could understand?)
- Patient may experience hair loss, back pain, cramps, bloating, edema, enlarged breasts, or dark patches on face. Have patient report immediately to prescriber signs of liver problems (dark urine, fatigue, lack of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or jaundice), signs of severe cerebrovascular disease (change in strength on one side is greater than the other, difficulty speaking or thinking, change in balance, or vision changes), signs of DVT (edema, warmth, numbness, change in color, or pain in the extremities), angina, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, severe headache, severe nausea, severe vomiting, severe dizziness, passing out, bulging eyes, vision changes, eye pain, severe eye irritation, contact lens discomfort, lump in breast, breast soreness or pain, nipple discharge, vaginitis, vaginal bleeding, depression, memory impairment, swelling of arms or legs, or severe skin irritation (HCAHPS).
- Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.
Intended Use and Disclaimer: Should not be printed and given to patients. This information is intended to serve as a concise initial reference for health care professionals to use when discussing medications with a patient. You must ultimately rely on your own discretion, experience, and judgment in diagnosing, treating, and advising patients.