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Drug overview for IMVEXXY (estradiol):
Generic name: ESTRADIOL (ES-tra-DYE-ol)
Drug class: Vaginal Estrogens
Therapeutic class: Endocrine
Estradiol (a principal endogenous estrogen) is a steroidal estrogen.
No enhanced Uses information available for this drug.
Generic name: ESTRADIOL (ES-tra-DYE-ol)
Drug class: Vaginal Estrogens
Therapeutic class: Endocrine
Estradiol (a principal endogenous estrogen) is a steroidal estrogen.
No enhanced Uses information available for this drug.
DRUG IMAGES
- IMVEXXY 10 MCG MAINTENANCE PAK
The following indications for IMVEXXY (estradiol) have been approved by the FDA:
Indications:
Dyspareunia due to menopause-associated vulvovaginal atrophy
Professional Synonyms:
None.
Indications:
Dyspareunia due to menopause-associated vulvovaginal atrophy
Professional Synonyms:
None.
The following dosing information is available for IMVEXXY (estradiol):
Dosage of estradiol, estradiol acetate, estradiol cypionate, estradiol valerate, and ethinyl estradiol must be individualized according to the condition being treated and the tolerance and therapeutic response of the patient. To minimize the risk of adverse effects, the lowest possible effective dosage should be used. When short-term estrogen therapy is indicated (e.g., for the management of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause; vulvar and vaginal atrophy), therapy should be discontinued as soon as possible; attempts to reduce dosage or discontinue the drug should be made at 3- to 6-month intervals.
Because of the potential increased risk of cardiovascular events, breast cancer, and venous thromboembolic events, estrogen and estrogen/progestin therapy should be limited to the lowest effective doses and shortest duration of therapy consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Estrogen and estrogen/progestin therapy should be periodically reevaluated.
Estrogen therapy is administered continuously or cyclically. While estrogen therapy alone may be appropriate in women who have undergone a hysterectomy, many clinicians currently recommend that a progestin be added to estrogen therapy in women with an intact uterus. Addition of progestin therapy for 10 or more days of a cycle of estrogen administration or daily with estrogen in a continuous regimen reduces the incidence of endometrial hyperplasia and the attendant risk of endometrial carcinoma in women with an intact uterus.
Morphologic and biochemical studies of the endometrium suggest that 10-13 days of progestin are needed to provide maximum maturation of the endometrium and to eliminate any hyperplastic changes. The manufacturer of Menostar(R) recommends that women with an intact uterus receive a progestin for 14 days every 6-12 months. When a progestin is used in conjunction with an estrogen, the usual precautions associated with progestin therapy should be observed.
Clinicians prescribing progestins should be aware of the risks associated with these drugs and the manufacturers' labeling should be consulted. The choice and dosage of a progestin may be important factors in minimizing adverse effects.
When long-acting parenteral preparations are used in the management of conditions associated with estrogen deficiency, the drugs are usually administered once every 3-4 weeks.
For the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, the usual initial oral dosage of estradiol is 1 or 2 mg daily in a cyclic regimen. For replacement therapy in female hypogonadism, female castration, or primary ovarian failure, the usual initial oral dosage of estradiol is 1 or 2 mg daily. Subsequent dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's therapeutic response, using the lowest possible effective maintenance dosage.
For the prevention of osteoporosis, an oral dosage of estradiol 0.5 mg daily in a cyclic regimen has been used. The lowest effective dosage of estradiol for this indication has not been determined.
When estradiol is used in fixed combination with norethindrone acetate (Activella(R)) for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, or prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the usual dosage is 1 mg of estradiol combined with 0.5 mg of norethindrone acetate daily.
When estradiol is used in fixed combination with drospirenone (Angeliq(R)) for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, the usual dosage is 1 mg of estradiol combined with 0.5 mg of drospirenone daily.
When estradiol is used with norgestimate (Prefest(R)) for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, or prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the usual dosage is 1 mg of estradiol daily for 3 days followed by 1 mg of estradiol with 0.09 mg of norgestimate daily for 3 days; the regimen is continued without interruption.
For the palliative treatment of advanced, metastatic carcinoma of the breast in appropriately selected men and postmenopausal women, the usual oral dosage of estradiol is 10 mg 3 times daily. Estrogen therapy is usually continued in these patients for at least 3 months.
For the palliative treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate, the usual oral dosage of estradiol is 1-2 mg 3 times daily.
Transdermal estradiol is commercially available as systems that are applied once or twice weekly. Estradiol transdermal systems that are applied twice weekly include Alora(R) (available as a system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours, 0.05 mg/24 hours, 0.075 mg/24 hours, or 0.1 mg/24 hours), Estraderm(R) (available as a system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours or 0.1 mg/24 hours), and Vivelle(R) and Vivelle-Dot(R) (available as a system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours, 0.0375 mg/24 hours, 0.05 mg/24 hours, 0.075 mg/24 hours, or 0.1 mg/24 hours). Estradiol transdermal systems that are applied once weekly include Climara(R) (available as a system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours, 0.0375 mg/24 hours, 0.05 mg/24 hours, 0.06 mg/24 hours, 0.075 mg/24 hours, or 0.1 mg/24 hours) and Menostar(R) (available as a system delivering 0.014 mg/24 hours).
In addition, transdermal estradiol/norethindrone (CombiPatch(R)) is commercially available as a system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.14 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate and as a system delivering 0.05
mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.25 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate. Transdermal estradiol/levonorgestrel (Climara Pro(R)) is commercially available as a system delivering 0.045
mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.015 mg/24 hours of levonorgestrel.
When Alora(R) or Estraderm(R) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol is one system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen in women who have undergone a hysterectomy or a cyclic regimen (3 weeks on drug followed by 1 week without the drug, and then the regimen is repeated as necessary) in women with an intact uterus.
When Climara(R) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied once weekly in a continuous regimen. Subsequent dosage should be adjusted according to the severity of the symptoms and the patient's therapeutic response, using the lowest possible effective maintenance dosage.
When Vivelle(R) or Vivelle-Dot(R) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol is one system delivering 0.0375 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a cyclic or continuous regimen. Subsequent dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's therapeutic response, using the lowest possible effective maintenance dosage.
In women who have undergone hysterectomy, transdermal estradiol Vivelle-Dot(R) may be applied twice a week in a continuous regimen.
When estradiol/levonorgestrel (Climara Pro(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause in women with an intact uterus, one system delivering 0.045 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.015 mg/24 hours of levonorgestrel is applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
When estradiol/norethindrone acetate (CombiPatch(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor systems associated with menopause, for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, or for the treatment of hypoestrogenism secondary to hypogonadism, castration, or primary ovarian failure, CombiPatch(R) may be administered as a continuous combined regimen or as a continuous sequential regimen. In the continuous combined regimen, one CombiPatch(R) system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.14
mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate is applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen. If necessary, the dosage of norethindrone acetate may be increased by using the dosage system that delivers 0.25 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate.
In the continuous sequential regimen, one system of transdermal estradiol delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours (i.e., Vivelle(R)) is applied twice weekly for the first 14 days of a 28-day cycle then one estradiol/norethindrone acetate (CombiPatch(R)) system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.14
mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate is applied twice weekly for the remaining 14 days of the cycle. If necessary, the dosage of norethindrone acetate may be increased by using the dosage system that delivers 0.25 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate.
When Alora(R) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the minimum dose that has been shown to be effective is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen.
When Climara(R) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the minimum dose that has been shown to be effective is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
For the prevention of osteoporosis, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol (Estraderm(R)) is one system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a cyclic regimen in women with an intact uterus. In women who have undergone hysterectomy, one Estraderm(R) system is applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen.
Subsequent dosage can be adjusted according to the patient's response.
For the prevention of osteoporosis, the usual dosage of transdermal estradiol (Menostar(R)) is one system delivering 0.014 mg/24 hours applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
When Vivelle(R) or Vivelle-Dot(R) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the usual dosage is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly.
When estradiol/levonorgestrel (Climara Pro(R)) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women with an intact uterus, one system delivering 0.045 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.015 mg/24 hours of levonorgestrel is applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
In women who are currently not receiving an oral estrogen, transdermal estradiol therapy can be initiated immediately. In women who are currently receiving an oral estrogen, transdermal estradiol therapy can be initiated 1 week after discontinuance of oral therapy or sooner if symptoms reappear before the week has passed.
Commercially available estradiol 0.06% topical gel (Elestrin(R)) is supplied in a non-aerosol metered-dose pump. Each depression of the pump delivers 0.87
g of gel containing 0.52 mg of estradiol. When estradiol gel (Elestrin(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the usual initial dosage is 0.87
g of gel (0.52 mg of estradiol) applied topically once daily. Prior to using the pump for the first time, the pump must be primed by fully depressing the pump 10 times; this gel should be discarded in a manner that avoids accidental exposure or ingestion by household members or pets.
Commercially available estradiol 0.06% topical gel (EstroGel(R)) is supplied in a non-aerosol metered-dose pump. Each depression of the pump delivers 1.25
g of gel containing 0.75 mg of estradiol. When estradiol gel (EstroGel(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, 1.25
g of gel (0.75 mg of estradiol) is applied topically once daily. Prior to using the pump for the first time, the pump must be primed by fully depressing the 93-g pump twice or depressing the 25-g pump 3 times; this gel should be discarded in a manner that avoids accidental exposure or ingestion by household members or pets.
Commercially available estradiol hemihydrate 0.25% topical emulsion (Estrasorb(R)) is supplied in foil-laminated pouches. Each pouch contains 1.74
g of emulsion. When estradiol topical emulsion (Estrasorb(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the contents of 2 pouches (delivering a total of 0.05 mg of estradiol/24 hours) are applied topically once daily.
Commercially available estradiol transdermal spray (Evamist(R)) is supplied in a metered-dose pump. The metered pump delivers a metered 90-mcL spray that contains 1.53 mg of estradiol per actuation.
When estradiol transdermal spray is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the recommended initial dose is one spray to the inner forearm once daily. Subsequent dosage is based on clinical response. One, two, or three sprays may be administered each morning to adjacent, non-overlapping areas of the inner forearm.
For the management of symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, 2-4 g of estradiol vaginal cream may be administered intravaginally once daily for 1-2 weeks, then gradually reduced to one-half the initial dosage for a similar period. Maintenance dosages of 1 g of estradiol vaginal cream administered intravaginally 1-3 times weekly may be used after restoration of the vaginal mucosa has occurred.
When estradiol vaginal ring (Estring(R)) is used for the management of postmenopausal urogenital symptoms, one ring (delivering estradiol 0.0075 mg/24 hours) is inserted into the upper third of the vaginal vault; the ring is to remain in place for 3 months. After 3 months, the ring should be removed and, if appropriate, replaced with a new ring. If the ring is expelled, the ring should be rinsed in lukewarm water and reinserted.
For the management of atrophic vaginitis, one vaginal tablet containing 25 mcg of estradiol (Vagifem(R)) is inserted intravaginally once daily (preferably at the same time each day) for 2 weeks (initial dosage). For maintenance therapy for this condition, one vaginal tablet containing 25 mcg of the drug is inserted intravaginally twice weekly.
Because of the potential increased risk of cardiovascular events, breast cancer, and venous thromboembolic events, estrogen and estrogen/progestin therapy should be limited to the lowest effective doses and shortest duration of therapy consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Estrogen and estrogen/progestin therapy should be periodically reevaluated.
Estrogen therapy is administered continuously or cyclically. While estrogen therapy alone may be appropriate in women who have undergone a hysterectomy, many clinicians currently recommend that a progestin be added to estrogen therapy in women with an intact uterus. Addition of progestin therapy for 10 or more days of a cycle of estrogen administration or daily with estrogen in a continuous regimen reduces the incidence of endometrial hyperplasia and the attendant risk of endometrial carcinoma in women with an intact uterus.
Morphologic and biochemical studies of the endometrium suggest that 10-13 days of progestin are needed to provide maximum maturation of the endometrium and to eliminate any hyperplastic changes. The manufacturer of Menostar(R) recommends that women with an intact uterus receive a progestin for 14 days every 6-12 months. When a progestin is used in conjunction with an estrogen, the usual precautions associated with progestin therapy should be observed.
Clinicians prescribing progestins should be aware of the risks associated with these drugs and the manufacturers' labeling should be consulted. The choice and dosage of a progestin may be important factors in minimizing adverse effects.
When long-acting parenteral preparations are used in the management of conditions associated with estrogen deficiency, the drugs are usually administered once every 3-4 weeks.
For the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, the usual initial oral dosage of estradiol is 1 or 2 mg daily in a cyclic regimen. For replacement therapy in female hypogonadism, female castration, or primary ovarian failure, the usual initial oral dosage of estradiol is 1 or 2 mg daily. Subsequent dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's therapeutic response, using the lowest possible effective maintenance dosage.
For the prevention of osteoporosis, an oral dosage of estradiol 0.5 mg daily in a cyclic regimen has been used. The lowest effective dosage of estradiol for this indication has not been determined.
When estradiol is used in fixed combination with norethindrone acetate (Activella(R)) for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, or prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the usual dosage is 1 mg of estradiol combined with 0.5 mg of norethindrone acetate daily.
When estradiol is used in fixed combination with drospirenone (Angeliq(R)) for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, the usual dosage is 1 mg of estradiol combined with 0.5 mg of drospirenone daily.
When estradiol is used with norgestimate (Prefest(R)) for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, or prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the usual dosage is 1 mg of estradiol daily for 3 days followed by 1 mg of estradiol with 0.09 mg of norgestimate daily for 3 days; the regimen is continued without interruption.
For the palliative treatment of advanced, metastatic carcinoma of the breast in appropriately selected men and postmenopausal women, the usual oral dosage of estradiol is 10 mg 3 times daily. Estrogen therapy is usually continued in these patients for at least 3 months.
For the palliative treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate, the usual oral dosage of estradiol is 1-2 mg 3 times daily.
Transdermal estradiol is commercially available as systems that are applied once or twice weekly. Estradiol transdermal systems that are applied twice weekly include Alora(R) (available as a system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours, 0.05 mg/24 hours, 0.075 mg/24 hours, or 0.1 mg/24 hours), Estraderm(R) (available as a system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours or 0.1 mg/24 hours), and Vivelle(R) and Vivelle-Dot(R) (available as a system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours, 0.0375 mg/24 hours, 0.05 mg/24 hours, 0.075 mg/24 hours, or 0.1 mg/24 hours). Estradiol transdermal systems that are applied once weekly include Climara(R) (available as a system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours, 0.0375 mg/24 hours, 0.05 mg/24 hours, 0.06 mg/24 hours, 0.075 mg/24 hours, or 0.1 mg/24 hours) and Menostar(R) (available as a system delivering 0.014 mg/24 hours).
In addition, transdermal estradiol/norethindrone (CombiPatch(R)) is commercially available as a system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.14 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate and as a system delivering 0.05
mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.25 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate. Transdermal estradiol/levonorgestrel (Climara Pro(R)) is commercially available as a system delivering 0.045
mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.015 mg/24 hours of levonorgestrel.
When Alora(R) or Estraderm(R) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol is one system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen in women who have undergone a hysterectomy or a cyclic regimen (3 weeks on drug followed by 1 week without the drug, and then the regimen is repeated as necessary) in women with an intact uterus.
When Climara(R) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied once weekly in a continuous regimen. Subsequent dosage should be adjusted according to the severity of the symptoms and the patient's therapeutic response, using the lowest possible effective maintenance dosage.
When Vivelle(R) or Vivelle-Dot(R) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol is one system delivering 0.0375 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a cyclic or continuous regimen. Subsequent dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's therapeutic response, using the lowest possible effective maintenance dosage.
In women who have undergone hysterectomy, transdermal estradiol Vivelle-Dot(R) may be applied twice a week in a continuous regimen.
When estradiol/levonorgestrel (Climara Pro(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause in women with an intact uterus, one system delivering 0.045 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.015 mg/24 hours of levonorgestrel is applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
When estradiol/norethindrone acetate (CombiPatch(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor systems associated with menopause, for the management of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, or for the treatment of hypoestrogenism secondary to hypogonadism, castration, or primary ovarian failure, CombiPatch(R) may be administered as a continuous combined regimen or as a continuous sequential regimen. In the continuous combined regimen, one CombiPatch(R) system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.14
mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate is applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen. If necessary, the dosage of norethindrone acetate may be increased by using the dosage system that delivers 0.25 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate.
In the continuous sequential regimen, one system of transdermal estradiol delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours (i.e., Vivelle(R)) is applied twice weekly for the first 14 days of a 28-day cycle then one estradiol/norethindrone acetate (CombiPatch(R)) system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.14
mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate is applied twice weekly for the remaining 14 days of the cycle. If necessary, the dosage of norethindrone acetate may be increased by using the dosage system that delivers 0.25 mg/24 hours of norethindrone acetate.
When Alora(R) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the minimum dose that has been shown to be effective is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen.
When Climara(R) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the minimum dose that has been shown to be effective is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
For the prevention of osteoporosis, the usual initial dosage of transdermal estradiol (Estraderm(R)) is one system delivering 0.05 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly in a cyclic regimen in women with an intact uterus. In women who have undergone hysterectomy, one Estraderm(R) system is applied twice weekly in a continuous regimen.
Subsequent dosage can be adjusted according to the patient's response.
For the prevention of osteoporosis, the usual dosage of transdermal estradiol (Menostar(R)) is one system delivering 0.014 mg/24 hours applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
When Vivelle(R) or Vivelle-Dot(R) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the usual dosage is one system delivering 0.025 mg/24 hours applied twice weekly.
When estradiol/levonorgestrel (Climara Pro(R)) is used for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women with an intact uterus, one system delivering 0.045 mg/24 hours of estradiol and 0.015 mg/24 hours of levonorgestrel is applied once weekly in a continuous regimen.
In women who are currently not receiving an oral estrogen, transdermal estradiol therapy can be initiated immediately. In women who are currently receiving an oral estrogen, transdermal estradiol therapy can be initiated 1 week after discontinuance of oral therapy or sooner if symptoms reappear before the week has passed.
Commercially available estradiol 0.06% topical gel (Elestrin(R)) is supplied in a non-aerosol metered-dose pump. Each depression of the pump delivers 0.87
g of gel containing 0.52 mg of estradiol. When estradiol gel (Elestrin(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the usual initial dosage is 0.87
g of gel (0.52 mg of estradiol) applied topically once daily. Prior to using the pump for the first time, the pump must be primed by fully depressing the pump 10 times; this gel should be discarded in a manner that avoids accidental exposure or ingestion by household members or pets.
Commercially available estradiol 0.06% topical gel (EstroGel(R)) is supplied in a non-aerosol metered-dose pump. Each depression of the pump delivers 1.25
g of gel containing 0.75 mg of estradiol. When estradiol gel (EstroGel(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause or the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, 1.25
g of gel (0.75 mg of estradiol) is applied topically once daily. Prior to using the pump for the first time, the pump must be primed by fully depressing the 93-g pump twice or depressing the 25-g pump 3 times; this gel should be discarded in a manner that avoids accidental exposure or ingestion by household members or pets.
Commercially available estradiol hemihydrate 0.25% topical emulsion (Estrasorb(R)) is supplied in foil-laminated pouches. Each pouch contains 1.74
g of emulsion. When estradiol topical emulsion (Estrasorb(R)) is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the contents of 2 pouches (delivering a total of 0.05 mg of estradiol/24 hours) are applied topically once daily.
Commercially available estradiol transdermal spray (Evamist(R)) is supplied in a metered-dose pump. The metered pump delivers a metered 90-mcL spray that contains 1.53 mg of estradiol per actuation.
When estradiol transdermal spray is used for the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, the recommended initial dose is one spray to the inner forearm once daily. Subsequent dosage is based on clinical response. One, two, or three sprays may be administered each morning to adjacent, non-overlapping areas of the inner forearm.
For the management of symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with menopause, 2-4 g of estradiol vaginal cream may be administered intravaginally once daily for 1-2 weeks, then gradually reduced to one-half the initial dosage for a similar period. Maintenance dosages of 1 g of estradiol vaginal cream administered intravaginally 1-3 times weekly may be used after restoration of the vaginal mucosa has occurred.
When estradiol vaginal ring (Estring(R)) is used for the management of postmenopausal urogenital symptoms, one ring (delivering estradiol 0.0075 mg/24 hours) is inserted into the upper third of the vaginal vault; the ring is to remain in place for 3 months. After 3 months, the ring should be removed and, if appropriate, replaced with a new ring. If the ring is expelled, the ring should be rinsed in lukewarm water and reinserted.
For the management of atrophic vaginitis, one vaginal tablet containing 25 mcg of estradiol (Vagifem(R)) is inserted intravaginally once daily (preferably at the same time each day) for 2 weeks (initial dosage). For maintenance therapy for this condition, one vaginal tablet containing 25 mcg of the drug is inserted intravaginally twice weekly.
No enhanced Administration information available for this drug.
DRUG LABEL | DOSING TYPE | DOSING INSTRUCTIONS |
---|---|---|
IMVEXXY 10 MCG MAINTENANCE PAK | Maintenance | Adults insert 1 vaginal insert (10 mcg) by vaginal route twice weekly (every 3 or 4 days) |
IMVEXXY 10 MCG STARTER PACK | Maintenance | Adults insert 1 vaginal insert (10 mcg) by vaginal route once daily for 2 weeks then 1 insert (10 mcg) twice weekly for duration of use |
No generic dosing information available.
The following drug interaction information is available for IMVEXXY (estradiol):
There are 1 contraindications.
These drug combinations generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. A manufacturer label warning that indicates the contraindication warrants inclusion of a drug combination in this category, regardless of clinical evidence or lack of clinical evidence to support the contraindication.
Drug Interaction | Drug Names |
---|---|
Selected Anti-Aromatase Agents/Estrogens SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aromatase inhibitors(1-6) and inactivators(7-10) treat breast cancer by inhibiting estrogen synthesis therefore lowering serum estrone and estradiol levels. In postmenopausal women, androgens are metabolized to estrogens via the primary pathway of the aromatase enzyme. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of estrogen may decrease the effectiveness of aromatase inhibitors.(1-6) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Canadian,(1) UK,(2) and US(3) manufacturers of anastrozole state that estrogen containing therapies should not be used during anastrozole therapy. The Australian,(7) Canadian,(8) UK,(9) and US(10) manufacturers of exemestane state that exemestane should not be administered with estrogen containing therapies. The Canadian(4) and UK(5) manufacturer of letrozole state that estrogen containing therapies should be avoided during letrozole therapy. DISCUSSION: Many breast cancers have estrogen receptors and their growth can be stimulated by estrogen. Anastrozole is a potent and selective non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor that lowers serum estradiol levels. Concurrent use of estrogen may diminish the effects of anastrozole.(1-3) Exemestane is a steroidal aromatase inactivator that lowers serum estradiol levels. Concurrent use of estrogen may diminish the effects of exemestane.(7-10) |
ANASTROZOLE, ARIMIDEX, AROMASIN, EXEMESTANE, FEMARA, LETROZOLE, TESTOSTERONE-ANASTROZOLE |
There are 2 severe interactions.
These drug interactions can produce serious consequences in most patients. Actions required for severe interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration scheduling, and providing additional patient monitoring. Review the full interaction monograph for more information.
Drug Interaction | Drug Names |
---|---|
Cosyntropin/Agents Affecting Plasma Cortisol Levels SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents affecting plasma cortisol levels may impact the accuracy of the cosyntropin diagnostic test.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of agents affecting plasma cortisol levels may impact the accuracy of the cosyntropin diagnostic test.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of cosyntropin states accuracy of diagnosis using the cosyntropin diagnostic test may be complicated by concomitant medications affecting plasma cortisol levels.(1) Agents affecting plasma cortisol levels and recommendation to stop prior to cosyntropin diagnostic test include: - Glucocorticoids: May elevate plasma cortisol levels. Stop these drugs on the day of testing. Long-acting glucocorticoids may need to be stopped for a longer period before testing. - Spironolactone: May elevate plasma cortisol levels. Stop spironolactone on the day of testing. - Estrogen: May elevate plasma total cortisol levels. Discontinue estrogen containing drugs 4 to 6 weeks prior to testing to allow cortisol binding globulin levels to return to levels within the reference range. Alternatively, concomitant measurement of cortisol binding globulin at the time of testing can be done; if cortisol binding globulin levels are elevated, plasma total cortisol levels are considered inaccurate.(1) DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of agents affecting plasma cortisol levels may impact the accuracy of the cosyntropin diagnostic test.(1) |
CORTROSYN, COSYNTROPIN |
Tofacitinib (Greater Than or Equal To 20 mg daily)/Estrogens SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Estrogens increase the risk of thrombosis, and combining estrogens with a higher dose of tofacitinib (greater than or equal to 10 mg twice daily, or 20 mg/day) may place patients at high risk of thromboembolism.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of estrogens with a higher dose of tofacitinib (greater than or equal to 10 mg twice daily, or 20 mg/day) may increase the incidence of pulmonary embolism and death.(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Additional risk factors include advanced age, obesity (BMI >30), smoking, prolonged immobilization, heart failure, hypercoagulable states, history of venous thromboembolism, malignancy, and major surgery.(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The European manufacturer states that the 10 mg twice daily dose of tofacitinib is not recommended in patients who are on combined hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, or who are otherwise at high risk of pulmonary embolism, unless there are no suitable alternatives.(4) Patients at high risk of pulmonary embolism should be switched to alternative therapies. For the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, the dose of tofacitinib should be limited to 5 mg twice daily or tofacitinib XR 11 mg daily.(1-4) The US FDA and Health Canada have not placed use restrictions specifically on concurrent use of tofacitinib with hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Both agencies advise avoiding tofacitinib in patients at increased risk of thrombosis. The US and Canadian manufacturers recommend against a dosage of tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily or weight-based equivalent twice daily or tofacitinib XR 22 mg once daily for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or polyarticular-course juvenile idiopathic arthritis. For the treatment of ulcerative colitis, the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible is recommended. Counsel patients on the risk of thrombosis and its signs and symptoms. Instruct patients to promptly report any symptoms of thrombosis and discontinue tofacitinib in patients with symptoms of thrombosis.(5-7) There is currently no use restriction on the combination of estrogens with lower doses of tofacitinib (less than 20 mg daily). DISCUSSION: In an ongoing open-label study comparing the safety of tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily, tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily, and a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor in rheumatoid arthritis patients 50 years old and older, the incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) was 6-fold higher in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily arm and 3-fold higher in the tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily arm compared to the TNF inhibitor arm (17 cases/3,123 patient-years, 9 cases/3,317 patient-years, and 3 cases/3,319 patient-years, respectively). All-cause mortality was also higher in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily and 5 mg twice daily arms compared to the TNF inhibitor arm (28 deaths/3,140 patient-years, 19 deaths/3,324 patient-years, and 9 deaths/3,323 patient-years, respectively).(3) |
TOFACITINIB CITRATE, XELJANZ, XELJANZ XR |
There are 3 moderate interactions.
The clinician should assess the patient’s characteristics and take action as needed. Actions required for moderate interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration.
Drug Interaction | Drug Names |
---|---|
Thyroid Preparations/Estrogens SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Estrogens increase thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) levels by increasing its biosynthesis and decreasing its clearance.(1) Hypothyroid patients who start estrogens may be unable to compensate for this increase and may have decreased serum free T4 (FT4) concentrations and increased TSH.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The coadministration of thyroid preparations and estrogens may result in decreased levels and clinical effects of thyroid hormones.(1-4) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients taking thyroid preparations and who start or stop estrogens should be monitored for changes in thyroid function. The dosage of the thyroid preparation may need to be increased.(1-4) DISCUSSION: In a prospective observational study, 25 post-menopausal women with hypothyroidism on stable levothyroxine therapy for at least 9 months started on estrogen replacement therapy. After 12 weeks, mean serum FT4 levels decreased significantly from 1.7 +/- 0.4 ng/dL to 1.4 +/-0.3 mg/dL and TSH increased significantly from 0.9 +/-1.1 to 3.2 +/- 3.1 milli-units/L.(1) |
ADTHYZA, ARMOUR THYROID, CYTOMEL, ERMEZA, EUTHYROX, LEVO-T, LEVOTHYROXINE SODIUM, LEVOTHYROXINE SODIUM DILUTION, LEVOXYL, LIOTHYRONINE SODIUM, NIVA THYROID, NP THYROID, PCCA T3 SODIUM DILUTION, PCCA T4 SODIUM DILUTION, RENTHYROID, SYNTHROID, THYQUIDITY, THYROID, TIROSINT, TIROSINT-SOL, UNITHROID |
Tofacitinib (Less Than 20 mg daily)/Estrogens SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Estrogens increase the risk of thrombosis, and combining estrogens with a higher dose of tofacitinib (greater than or equal to 10 mg twice daily, or 20 mg/day) may place patients at high risk of thromboembolism.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of estrogens with a higher dose of tofacitinib (greater than or equal to 10 mg twice daily, or 20 mg/day) may increase the incidence of pulmonary embolism and death.(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Additional risk factors include advanced age, obesity (BMI greater than 30), smoking, prolonged immobilization, heart failure, hypercoagulable states, history of venous thromboembolism, malignancy, and major surgery.(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The European manufacturer states that the 10 mg twice daily dose of tofacitinib is not recommended in patients who are on combined hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, or who are otherwise at high risk of pulmonary embolism.(4) Patients at high risk of pulmonary embolism should be switched to alternative therapies. For the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, the dose of tofacitinib should be limited to 5 mg twice daily or tofacitinib XR 11 mg daily.(1-4) The US FDA and Health Canada have not placed use restrictions specifically on concurrent use of tofacitinib with hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Both agencies advise avoiding tofacitinib in patients at increased risk of thrombosis. The US and Canadian manufacturers recommend against a dosage of tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily or weight-based equivalent twice daily or tofacitinib XR 22 mg once daily for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or polyarticular-course juvenile idiopathic arthritis. For the treatment of ulcerative colitis, the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible is recommended. Counsel patients on the risk of thrombosis and its signs and symptoms. Instruct patients to promptly report any symptoms of thrombosis and discontinue tofacitinib in patients with symptoms of thrombosis.(5-7) There is currently no use restriction on the combination of estrogens with lower doses of tofacitinib (less than 20 mg daily). DISCUSSION: In an ongoing open-label study comparing the safety of tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily, tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily, and a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor in rheumatoid arthritis patients 50 years old and older, the incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) was 6-fold higher in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily arm and 3-fold higher in the tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily arm compared to the TNF inhibitor arm (17 cases/3,123 patient-years, 9 cases/3,317 patient-years, and 3 cases/3,319 patient-years, respectively). All-cause mortality was also higher in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily and 5 mg twice daily arms compared to the TNF inhibitor arm (28 deaths/3,140 patient-years, 19 deaths/3,324 patient-years, and 9 deaths/3,323 patient-years, respectively).(3) |
XELJANZ, XELJANZ XR |
Tacrolimus/Moderate and Weak CYP3A4 Inhibitors SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate and weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of tacrolimus.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from tacrolimus, including nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and prolongation of the QTc interval and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tacrolimus recommends monitoring tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations and reducing tacrolimus dose if needed.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a study of 26 renal transplant recipients, conjugated estrogens 3.75 mg daily increased the tacrolimus dose-corrected concentration of tacrolimus by 85.6%. Discontinuation of the conjugated estrogens led to a decrease in tacrolimus concentration of 46.6%.(3) A case report describes a 65-year-old kidney transplant recipient who was stable on tacrolimus 9 mg per day with trough levels of 5 to 7.5 ng/mL. Ten days after starting on estradiol gel 0.5 mg per day, her tacrolimus level rose to 18.3 ng/mL and serum creatinine (Scr) rose from 1.1 mg/dL at baseline to 2 mg/dL. Tacrolimus dose was reduced by 60%, and trough levels and Scr normalized after two weeks.(4) A study of 16 healthy volunteers found that elbasvir 50 mg/grazoprevir 200 mg daily increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of tacrolimus by 43%, while the maximum concentration (Cmax) of tacrolimus was decreased by 40%.(5) An analysis of FAERS data from 2004-2017, found a significant assoc ation between transplant rejection and concurrent use of tacrolimus and clotrimazole (reporting odds ration 1.92, 95% CI). A retrospective study of 7 heart transplant patients on concurrent tacrolimus and clotrimazole troche showed a significant correlation between tacrolimus trough concentration and AUC after clotrimazole discontinuation. Tacrolimus clearance and bioavailability after clotrimazole discontinuation was 2.2-fold greater (0.27 vs. 0.59 L/h/kg) and the trough concentration decreased from 6.5 ng/mL at 1 day to 5.3 ng/mL at 2 days after clotrimazole discontinuation.(7) A retrospective study of 26 heart transplant patients found that discontinuation of concurrent clotrimazole with tacrolimus in the CYP3A5 expresser group had a 3.3-fold increase in apparent oral clearance and AUC of tacrolimus (0.27 vs. 0.89 L/h/kg) compared to the CYP3A5 non expresser group with a 2.2-fold mean increase (0.18 vs. 0.39 L/h/kg).(8) A study of 6 adult kidney transplant recipients found that clotrimazole (5-day course) increased the tacrolimus AUC 250% and the blood trough concentrations doubled (27.7 ng/ml versus 27.4 ng/ml). Tacrolimus clearance decreased 60% with coadministration of clotrimazole.(9) A case report describes a 23-year-old kidney transplant recipient who was stable on tacrolimus 5 mg twice daily, mycophenolate mofetil 30 mg daily, prednisone (30 mg daily tapered over time to 5 mg), and clotrimazole troche 10 mg four times daily. Discontinuation of clotrimazole resulted in a decrease in tacrolimus trough levels from 13.7 ng/ml to 5.4 ng/ml over a period of 6 days. Clotrimazole was restarted with tacrolimus 6 mg resulting in an increased tacrolimus level of 19.2 ng/ml.(10) A retrospective study in 95 heart transplant recipients on concurrent clotrimazole and tacrolimus found a median tacrolimus dose increase of 66.7% was required after clotrimazole discontinuation. Tacrolimus trough concentration was found to have decreased 42.5% after clotrimazole discontinuation.(11) A retrospective study in 65 pancreas transplant patients on concurrent tacrolimus, clotrimazole, cyclosporine, and prednisone found that clotrimazole discontinuation at 3 months after transplantation may cause significant tacrolimus trough level reductions.(12) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: aprepitant, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, fluvoxamine, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nirogacestat, and tofisopam.(6) Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: alprazolam, avacopan, baikal skullcap, berberine, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, chlorzoxazone, cimetidine, cranberry juice, daclatasvir, daridorexant, delavirdine, diosmin, estrogens, flibanserin, fosaprepitant, fostamatinib, ginkgo biloba, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lazertinib, linagliptin, lomitapide, lumateperone, lurasidone, peppermint oil, piperine, propiverine, ranitidine, remdesivir, resveratrol, rimegepant, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, skullcap, suvorexant, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, viloxazine, and vonoprazan-amoxicillin.(6) |
ASTAGRAF XL, ENVARSUS XR, PROGRAF, TACROLIMUS, TACROLIMUS XL |
The following contraindication information is available for IMVEXXY (estradiol):
Drug contraindication overview.
No enhanced Contraindications information available for this drug.
No enhanced Contraindications information available for this drug.
There are 4 contraindications.
Absolute contraindication.
Contraindication List |
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Antithrombin III deficiency |
Disease of liver |
Endometrial carcinoma |
Thrombophilia |
There are 10 severe contraindications.
Adequate patient monitoring is recommended for safer drug use.
Severe List |
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Carcinoma of breast |
Dementia |
Estrogen-dependent neoplasm |
Hepatic porphyria |
Hereditary angioedema |
Malignant neoplasm of the ovary |
Mammography abnormal |
Neoplasm of female genital organ |
Reduced visual acuity |
Retinal vascular occlusion |
There are 12 moderate contraindications.
Clinically significant contraindication, where the condition can be managed or treated before the drug may be given safely.
Moderate List |
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Diabetes mellitus |
Endometriosis |
Gallbladder disease |
Hypertension |
Hypertriglyceridemia |
Hypervolemia |
Hypothyroidism |
Migraine |
Seizure disorder |
Systemic lupus erythematosus |
Tobacco smoker |
Uterine leiomyoma |
The following adverse reaction information is available for IMVEXXY (estradiol):
Adverse reaction overview.
No enhanced Common Adverse Effects information available for this drug.
No enhanced Common Adverse Effects information available for this drug.
There are 20 severe adverse reactions.
More Frequent | Less Frequent |
---|---|
None. | None. |
Rare/Very Rare |
---|
Acute myocardial infarction Anaphylaxis Angioedema Cerebrovascular accident Deep venous thrombosis Dementia Endometrial carcinoma Endometrial hyperplasia Gallbladder obstruction Hypercalcemia Hypersensitivity drug reaction Hypertension Hypertriglyceridemia Malignant neoplasm of the ovary Neoplasm of breast Precocious puberty Pulmonary thromboembolism Retinal thrombosis Thromboembolic disorder Uterine leiomyoma |
There are 30 less severe adverse reactions.
More Frequent | Less Frequent |
---|---|
Abdominal distension Back pain Headache disorder Infection Mastalgia Vulvovaginal candidiasis Weight gain |
Acne vulgaris Candidiasis Cramps General weakness Gynecomastia Libido changes Migraine Pelvic pain Pruritus of skin Vaginitis |
Rare/Very Rare |
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Abdominal pain with cramps Abnormal vaginal bleeding Body fluid retention Chloasma Depression Diarrhea Dysmenorrhea Genital organ pruritus Insomnia Nipple discharge Urticaria Vaginal discharge Vaginal irritation |
The following precautions are available for IMVEXXY (estradiol):
No enhanced Pediatric Use information available for this drug.
Contraindicated
Severe Precaution
Management or Monitoring Precaution
Contraindicated
None |
Severe Precaution
None |
Management or Monitoring Precaution
None |
No enhanced Pregnancy information available for this drug.
No enhanced Lactation information available for this drug.
No enhanced Geriatric Use information available for this drug.
The following prioritized warning is available for IMVEXXY (estradiol):
WARNING: Estrogens, either used alone or with another hormone (progestin), have rarely caused very serious side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of hormone treatment with your doctor. Estrogens should not be used to prevent heart disease or dementia.
Estrogens can increase the risk of cancer of the uterus (endometrial cancer). Taking a progestin as directed by your doctor can help decrease this risk. Tell your doctor right away if you have any unusual vaginal bleeding.
In postmenopausal women, estrogens, taken with or without a progestin, increase the risk of cancer of the breast/ovaries, stroke, dementia, and serious blood clots. When used along with a progestin, estrogens also increase the risk of heart disease (such as heart attacks). The risk for serious side effects may depend on the dose of estrogen and the length of time it is used.
This medication should be used at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest amount of time. Discuss the use of this medication with your doctor and check with him/her regularly (for example, every 3 to 6 months) to see if you still need to use this medication. If you will be using this medication long-term, you should have regular complete physical exams (for example, once a year) as directed by your doctor. See also Notes section.
WARNING: Estrogens, either used alone or with another hormone (progestin), have rarely caused very serious side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of hormone treatment with your doctor. Estrogens should not be used to prevent heart disease or dementia.
Estrogens can increase the risk of cancer of the uterus (endometrial cancer). Taking a progestin as directed by your doctor can help decrease this risk. Tell your doctor right away if you have any unusual vaginal bleeding.
In postmenopausal women, estrogens, taken with or without a progestin, increase the risk of cancer of the breast/ovaries, stroke, dementia, and serious blood clots. When used along with a progestin, estrogens also increase the risk of heart disease (such as heart attacks). The risk for serious side effects may depend on the dose of estrogen and the length of time it is used.
This medication should be used at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest amount of time. Discuss the use of this medication with your doctor and check with him/her regularly (for example, every 3 to 6 months) to see if you still need to use this medication. If you will be using this medication long-term, you should have regular complete physical exams (for example, once a year) as directed by your doctor. See also Notes section.
The following icd codes are available for IMVEXXY (estradiol)'s list of indications:
Dyspareunia due to menopausal vulvovaginal atrophy | |
N95.2 | Postmenopausal atrophic vaginitis |
Formulary Reference Tool