Estradiol
Hormonal contraception
A synthetic form of estradiol, called
ethinylestradiol is a major component of hormonal contraceptive devices. Combined
oral contraceptives contain
ethinylestradiol and a
progestin, which both contribute to the inhibition of
GnRH,
LH, and
FSH. The inhibition of these
hormones accounts for the ability of combined
oral contraceptives or
birth control pills to prevent ovulation and thus prevent pregnancy. Other types of
hormonal birth control contain only
progestins and no
ethinylestradiol.
List of estradiol medications
The following are marketed versions of estradiol:
* Oral versions: Estrace®, Activella® (also contains a progestin), estradiol acetate
* Transdermal preparation: Alora® , Climara® , Vivelle® , Menostar®
* Ointments: Estrasorb Topical®, Estrogel®
* Injection: Estradiol cyprionate: Lunelle® monthly injection
* Vaginal ointment: Estrace Vaginal Creame®
* Vaginal ring: Estring® (estradiol acetate)Estradiol is also part of conjugated estrogen preparations, including
Premarin®.
Estradiol should not be given to women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding, women with unexplained uterine bleeding, certain forms of cancer, or prone to blood clotting disorders. The medication is to be kept away from children. Detailed prescription information is available
[[1] Estrace/Estradiol presciption information]Side effects of estradiol therapy may include uterine bleeding, breast tenderness, nausea and vomiting,
chloasma, cholestasis, and
migraine headaches.
*
estrogen insensitivity syndrome*
hormone replacement therapy*
gender*
androgen*
Oral contraceptive formulations
