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What should I discuss with my health care provider before using estradiol oral (Estrace, Femtrace, Gynodiol)?

You should not take estradiol if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• liver disease;
• abnormal vaginal bleeding that a doctor has not checked;
• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer;
• a recent history of heart attack or stroke;
• if you are pregnant;
• if you have ever had a blood clot (especially in your lung or your lower body); or
• if you are allergic to any medicines or food dyes.

Taking hormones can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you have risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglycerides, smoking, or being overweight.

To make sure you can safely take estradiol, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• heart disease;
• kidney disease;
• family history of blood clots;
• a history of jaundice caused by pregnancy or taking hormones;
• endometriosis;
• lupus;
• porphyria;
• gallbladder disease;
• underactive thyroid;
• asthma;
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• migraines;
• low levels of calcium in your blood; or
• if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy).

FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use estradiol if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.

Estradiol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. This medication may also slow breast milk production. You should not breast-feed while you are taking estradiol.

Estradiol should not be used to prevent heart disease, stroke, or dementia, because this medication may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

How should I use estradiol oral (Estrace, Femtrace, Gynodiol)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Long-term estradiol treatment may increase your risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using estradiol long-term.

Taking progestin while using estradiol may lower your risk of uterine cancer. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using estradiol.

Have regular physical exams and mammograms, and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using estradiol. Your doctor should check your progress every 3 to 6 months to determine whether you should continue this treatment.

If you need medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are taking estradiol.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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