Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: ESTRADIOL CYPIONATE INJECTION (ess-truh-DYE-all sip-EYE-oh-nate)

BRAND NAME(S): Dep-Gynogen, Depo-Estradiol, Depogen

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: This drug has been reported to increase the chance of womb (endometrial) cancer in women who have been through menopause. It also may increase the risk of cancer of the ovary or breast. Therefore, use of estrogen-only hormone therapy (e.g., in women without a uterus) must be cautious. These risks of treatment appear to depend on the length of time this drug is used and the amount of estrogen per dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. Estrogen given in combination with another hormone (progestin) for replacement therapy can infrequently cause heart disease (e.g., heart attacks), stroke, serious blood clots (pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis), dementia, and cancer of the breast. These risks appear to depend on the length of time this drug is used and the amount of estrogen per dose. If you use this drug for an extended period, you should be evaluated at least every year. If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding or lumps in the breast, notify your doctor promptly. This medication is not effective in preventing or treating a tendency toward miscarriages (natural habitual abortion) nor the threat of miscarriage. This drug must not be used during pregnancy because its use may result in birth defects or cancer later in the child's life. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, consult your doctor immediately to discuss the risk to the fetus.