ESTRADIOL SEMIWEEKLY - TRANSDERMAL (Estraderm, Vivelle) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

estradiol semiweekly - transdermal, Estraderm, Vivelle (cont.)

HOW TO USE: Use this medication exactly as prescribed. The patch is usually replaced twice a week (about every 3 to 4 days), or as directed by your doctor. Follow the dosing schedule carefully.Do not open the sealed pouch container until ready to use. Open the pouch and remove the patch from the protective liner. Apply the patch to a clean, dry, hairless area as directed by your doctor or by the patient information leaflet. This patch should only be applied to certain areas of the body. Different brands of patches are applied to different areas of the body. If you have any questions about where to apply the patch, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Press the patch firmly against the skin for about 10 seconds to make sure the patch stays on. Do not apply to a site that is exposed to sunlight and do not place the patch on the breast. Avoid applying to the waistline since tight clothing may rub the patch off. Do not put the patch on areas where sitting may loosen it.When it is time to change the patch, remove it; fold it in half with the sticky sides together and discard in the trash away from children and pets. Apply a new patch to a different area to prevent skin irritation. It is best to rotate the areas where the patch is applied, allowing at least 1 week in between applications to the same site. If the area around the patch becomes red, itchy, or irritated, try a new site. If the irritation continues or becomes worse, notify your doctor promptly.If a patch falls off, reapply it or apply a new patch and wear it for the rest of the scheduled period.Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, stomach upset, bloating, nausea, weight changes, increased/decreased interest in sex, breast tenderness, or skin redness/irritation at the application site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (e.g., severe depression, memory loss), vision changes (e.g., change in contact lens fit, loss of vision), swelling of hands or feet, stomach/abdominal/pelvic pain, vomiting, breast lumps, unusual vaginal bleeding (e.g., spotting, breakthrough bleeding, prolonged/recurrent bleeding), unusual vaginal discharge/itching/odor, yellowing of the eyes or skin.Seek immediate medical attention if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: calf pain/swelling, sudden severe headache, chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech.A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.