Estrace Vaginal Cream (Estradiol)

Do’s

• Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before using Estrace Vaginal Cream and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider for clarification
• Use this medication as directed by your healthcare provider. Fill the applicator with the medication according to the provided directions. Insert the applicator high into the vagina and press the plunger to release the medication. After each use, clean the applicator with warm soapy water and rinse it well. 
• The dosage of Estrace Vaginal Cream is based on your medical condition and your body's response to the treatment. Follow the prescribed dosage to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.
• Use this medication regularly to obtain the maximum benefit from it. Adhere to your dosing schedule carefully.
• Keep your healthcare provider informed about your condition and its response to the medication. If your condition does not improve or worsens, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Don’t

• Avoid boiling or using hot water to clean the applicator.
• Avoid increasing your dose or using the medication more frequently or for a longer duration than directed.

Common Side Effects: 

• Breast pain
• Enlarged breasts
• Itching of the vagina or genitals
• Headache
• Nausea
• Stinging or redness of the genital area
• Thick, white vaginal discharge without odor or with a mild odor

Less Common but Serious Side Effects: 

• Breast cancer
• Cancer of the uterus
• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Blood clots
• Dementia
• Gallbladder disease
• Ovarian cancer

Warning signs of serious side effects:

• Breast lumps
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Dizziness and faintness
• Changes in speech
• Severe headaches
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Pains in your legs
• Changes in vision
• Vomiting

If you experience any of these side effects or warning signs, seek medical attention promptly. 

Individuals who have unusual vaginal bleeding, certain types of cancers (such as breast or uterine cancer), a history of stroke or heart attack in the past year, current or past blood clots, liver problems, allergies to Estrace Vaginal Cream or its ingredients, or suspect pregnancy should not use this cream.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have recently had or will be having surgery, or if you will be confined to a chair or bed for a long time, as these conditions may increase the risk of blood clots, especially when using an estrogen product. Special precautions may be necessary in such situations.

Individuals with gallbladder problems, increased blood pressure, liver injury, or a history of stroke should also inform their healthcare provider before using Estrace Vaginal Cream.

Estrace Vaginal Cream has "systemic" effects, meaning it can affect parts of the body other than where the medicine is directly applied. Systemic absorption may occur, and the warnings, precautions, and adverse reactions associated with oral estrogen treatment should be taken into account.

Use of Estrace Vaginal Cream, alone or in combination with progestin, should be limited to the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Postmenopausal women should reevaluate periodically to determine if treatment is still necessary.

Have regular discussions with your healthcare provider about whether you still need treatment with Estrace Vaginal Cream to control the associated problems.

The information provided here is not exhaustive, and individuals should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance before using Estrace Vaginal Cream.