Estrace, also known by its generic name Estradiol, is a female hormone supplement. This drug is used by women to reduce symptoms of menopause. When the female body experiences menopause, the reproductive system generates less estrogen which can cause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

Other uses of Estrace

Estrace can also be used to treat bone loss (osteoporosis) in menopausal women. Bone density loss is another common symptom of a lack of estrogen. This estrogen treatment can also be used in both men and women to treat certain types of prostate and breast cancer.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Take this oral medication with or without food.
• Do not crush or chew the extended-release tablets. This can release all the drug at once and increase the risk of side effects.
• Take the medication at the same time every day.
• Do not increase your dose unless advised to do so by the doctor.
• Always tell your doctor if your menopausal symptoms do not improve or worsen.

Before taking Estrace, tell your doctor if you have a medical history that includes:

• Vaginal bleeding of unknown cause
• Breast or ovarian cancer
• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Uterine problems (fibroids, endometriosis)
• Mood disorders or depression

Do not smoke tobacco while taking this estrogen treatment. Smoking increases your risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attacks.

This drug may worsen your vision if you are nearsighted. Contact your doctor if your vision changes or you have trouble wearing your contact lenses.

Melasma may occur while taking this medication. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen when outdoors to prevent darkened areas of the skin on the body.

Common side effects of Estrace include but are not limited to:

• Nausea/vomiting
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Headache
• Weight changes
• Stomach upset

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience:

• The tablet appears in your stool
• Mood changes such as depression and memory loss
• Breast lumps
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Vaginal irritation/discharge/odor
• Severe stomach pain
• Trouble breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Sudden dizziness or fainting

Is this medication dangerous during pregnancy?

Estrace should not be used during pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you may be pregnant. This drug also passes into the breastmilk and may reduce the quality and amount of breast milk produced. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding on Estrace.