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Side Effects of Estradiol Gel

Estradiol gel is a topical hormonal treatment prescribed to relieve unpleasant symptoms of menopause. Available only under the brand EstroGel in the United States, the medication also maintains or increases bone mineral density. Many side effects are possible.

  1. Most Common Effects

    • In clinical studies with EstroGel, as detailed by eMedTV, the most common side effects were headaches and infections, experienced in 17 to 20 percent of participants in some studies. Additional common side effects included gas, abdominal pain, breast pain, general aches and pains, and vaginal irritation or infection.

    Less Common Effects

    • Side effects experienced by 1 to 6 percent of women in these studies included abnormal Pap smears, back pain, diarrhea, nausea, anxiety, nervousness, sinus infections, irregular menstruation, weakness and weight gain.

    Post-Study Effects

    • Additional side effects associated with estradiol gel include bloating, changes in sex drive, dizziness, hair thinning, lightheadedness and skin irritation at the application site.

    Cardiovascular Concerns

    • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires a black box warning on EstroGel addressing cardiovascular risks. Oral estrogen therapy in combination with the hormone progestin is associated with an increase in heart attacks, blood clots and strokes.

    Dementia

    • The FDA-required black box includes a warning about the increased risk of dementia in postmenopausal women aged 65 years or older who are being treated with estradiol gel and a combination of oral estrogen therapy and progestin.

    Cancer

    • The FDA requires an additional black box warning because of increased risk of uterine cancer associated with estrogen use in postmenopausal women. Estrogens also may increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

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