Estradiol – Natural oestrogen replacement therapy for menopause management.
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What is Estradiol?
Estradiol (Evorel 50) provides natural oestrogen replacement therapy through convenient transdermal patches, offering effective relief from menopausal symptoms while potentially reducing some risks associated with oral HRT. The patch delivery system provides steady hormone levels throughout the treatment period.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, or mood changes that are affecting your quality of life. Our GPs can assess your menopausal status and determine if HRT with Estradiol patches or other treatments are appropriate for your specific needs.
What is Estradiol used for?
- Menopausal symptoms (hot flushes, night sweats)
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis
- Genitourinary symptoms of menopause
- Severe menopausal symptoms affecting quality of life
- Premature menopause management
- Hypogonadism in women
How does Estradiol work?
A natural oestrogen (17β-estradiol) that replaces the declining hormone levels after menopause, alleviating symptoms caused by oestrogen deficiency and providing bone protection.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Evorel 50: One patch twice weekly (every 3-4 days). Patches deliver 50 micrograms daily. May need progesterone if uterus present.
Children
Not used in children—adult women only.
Important Notes
- Apply patch to clean, dry, hairless skin below waist.
- Change patch every 3-4 days (twice weekly).
- Rotate application sites to prevent skin irritation.
- If you have a uterus, you'll also need progesterone therapy.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Skin irritation at patch site
- Mood changes
- Weight changes
- Bloating
- Leg cramps
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Blood clots (thromboembolism)
- Stroke
- Breast cancer (long-term use)
- Endometrial cancer (if used without progesterone)
- Gallbladder disease
- Severe allergic reactions
Important Warnings
- Tell your GP if you have a history of blood clots, breast cancer, or liver disease.
- Regular monitoring and review required for long-term HRT use.
- If you have a uterus, you must also take progesterone to protect the womb lining.
- Report any unusual bleeding, breast changes, or leg pain/swelling.
- Increased risk of blood clots—discuss individual risk factors with GP.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin—may reduce oestrogen effectiveness.
- St John's Wort—may reduce oestrogen levels.
- Lamotrigine—oestrogen may reduce lamotrigine levels.
- Warfarin—may affect anticoagulation, monitor INR.
- Thyroid medications—may need dose adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Evorel patch different from HRT tablets?
Patches deliver oestrogen through the skin, avoiding first-pass liver metabolism, which may reduce some risks like blood clots compared to oral HRT.
Why do I need progesterone with oestrogen if I still have my uterus?
Oestrogen alone stimulates the womb lining, increasing cancer risk. Progesterone protects against this by causing regular shedding of the lining.
How long can I safely use HRT?
This depends on your individual benefits and risks. Your GP will regularly review your HRT, typically annually, to ensure benefits continue to outweigh risks.
What should I do if the patch falls off?
Apply a new patch immediately. If it's been off for more than a few hours, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Continue with your normal schedule.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14