The Independent Pharmacy

Estradot Side Effects: A Complete Guide For HRT Users

Scott McDougall
Scott McDougall
MPharm GPhC 2079324
Director & Registered Manager

Estradot Patches are designed to replace the oestrogen that your ovaries produced naturally before you entered the menopause and your hormones change. The medication is delivered into your system through your skin using a small, sticky patch.

Estradot is an effective HRT treatment. However, like all medicines it can have some side effects. While most people won’t experience any adverse reactions, it’s important to know what to look out for just in case you do have any serious symptoms.

The most common Estradot side effects are breast tenderness, headaches and abdominal pain. These side effects may ease after a few months as your body adjusts to the hormone.

More serious side effects include blood clots and an increased risk of some types of cancer. These side effects are very rare, though it’s essential you spot them early if they do occur.

Here, we take a look at possible HRT patch side effects and what you can do to manage your symptoms.

Key takeaways

1 | Most Estradot side effects are mild and improve with time

2 | Some side effects may require medical attention

3 | Not everyone experiences side effects when using Estradot

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Common Side Effects Of Estradot Patches

Like other HRT treatments, Estradot Patches can cause some side effects. The most common side effect is breast tenderness, with around 29% of users experiencing some discomfort. Around 16% of women have abdominal cramps when using Estradot Patches, and 18% see an increase in the frequency and severity of their headaches.

Other common HRT patch side effects include:

  • back pain (11%)
  • joint pain (11%)
  • upper respiratory tract infection (17%)

You may also experience:

  • breakthrough bleeding (also known as spotting)
  • leg cramps
  • acne
  • application site reactions
  • bloating
  • dizziness
  • changes in your sex drive
  • mood swings
  • nausea

In most cases, these side effects will ease as your body gets used to Estradot. Speak to a healthcare professional if your symptoms haven’t improved after six months, or you’re concerned about any of the changes you’re seeing.

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Serious Side Effects To Watch For

In extremely rare cases, Estradot Patches can cause serious side effects. It’s important to know what to watch out for so you can seek medical attention straight if necessary.

Estradot Patches, like other oestrogen replacement therapies, can slightly increase your risk of blood clots. Though Estradot risks are low, if you notice any pain, redness or swelling in one of your legs call 999 or speak to your doctor.

If you feel a lump in your breast or notice any changes in the appearance of your breasts, such as dimpling of the skin or changes in the nipple, speak to your GP as soon as possible. These symptoms could be a sign of breast cancer, so it’s essential to get them checked.

It’s also important to speak to your doctor about any changes in vaginal bleeding, especially if you’ve been using Estradot Patches for more than a few months.

Estradot
Estradot
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Who Is More Likely To Experience Estradot Side Effects?

Most women won’t experience any significant Estradot problems. However, smoking can significantly increase your risk of developing blood clots or having a stroke when using Estradot Patches.

You can also be at an increased risk of blood clots if you’re obese, or have previously had a heart attack, stroke, heart disease or clots in your legs. Speak to your doctor about your health, family history and lifestyle during your consultation to ensure Estradot Patches are the right choice for you.

Managing Estradot Side Effects

Varying the place where you apply your patches can help to reduce skin irritation and tenderness. You could alternate between your tummy, hip, bottom and thigh to minimise any application site reactions.

Any sticky residue that’s left on your skin when you remove your patches can be cleaned with warm soapy water. If this doesn’t work, try using a bit of baby oil or olive oil to clean the affected area.

Stopping smoking, and losing weight if you’re obese, may also help to ease any potential Estradot patch side effects.

It is essential that you speak to a licensed medical professional before starting any menopause medication. They can provide personalised, expert guidance, assess potential risks and ensure that your chosen treatment is safe and suitable for your health needs.

Estradot Patches offer a safe and effective treatment for women who no longer produce oestrogen in their ovaries. Used to ease the symptoms of the perimenopause and menopause, Estradot Patches release oestrogen directly into the bloodstream, allowing it to travel through the entire body.

If you’d like more information about Estradot Patches or any other HRT treatment, we’re here to help. Take a look at our menopause guides, or book a free and confidential menopause consultation, to learn more about your options.

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18198-estradiol-skin-patches

https://medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/estradot#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20or%20have,clots%2C%20smoking%2C%20and%20obesity.

https://www.drugs.com/sfx/estradot-side-effects.html

https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/e/estradot.pdf

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/estradiol-transdermal-route/description/drg-20075306

https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/oestrogen-tablets-patches-gel-and-spray/side-effects-of-oestrogen-tablets-patches-gel-and-spray/

https://www.balance-menopause.com/menopause-library/oestrogen-only-patches-what-is-estradot-and-how-do-i-use-it/

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Scott McDougall

Authored by

Scott McDougall
Scott McDougall
MPharm
2079324
Director & Registered Manager

Scott is one of the two founders of The Independent Pharmacy. He is a registered pharmacist and the registered manager of our service with the CQC.

Daniel Hurley

Reviewed by

Daniel Hurley
Daniel Hurley
MPharm IP
2078790
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber

Dan is an experienced pharmacist having spent time working in both primary and secondary care. He currently supports our clinical team by providing robust clinical governance review of our internal processes and information.