From the Guidelines
Estradiol (E2) patch therapy can cause several side effects, including skin irritation, breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, mood changes, and fluid retention, with the most common being skin effects such as hyperpigmentation, contact dermatitis, and other irritation 1. When using Estradiol patches, it's essential to be aware of the potential side effects to minimize risks. Some key considerations include:
- Rotating application sites regularly to reduce skin irritation
- Applying patches to clean, dry skin to prevent dislodging
- Starting with the lowest effective dose to minimize systemic side effects
- Reporting any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly Less common but serious side effects may include blood clots, stroke, or certain cancers, which can be increased by factors such as age, smoking, and certain medical conditions 1. To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions for use and monitor your body's response to the therapy. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider, as they may adjust your dose or recommend an alternative treatment. The Estradiol patch works by delivering estrogen through the skin, which can provide more consistent hormone levels compared to oral estrogen, potentially reducing some side effects associated with oral estrogen 1. However, it's essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and closely monitor your health while using this therapy.
From the Research
Side Effects of Estradiol (E2) Patch Therapy
- Breast tenderness and weight gain were reported as minor problems associated with the use of estradiol patches 2
- Skin irritation was minimal, but adhesiveness was a problem during the summer months, especially with swimming or showering 2
- Local skin reactions, all mild, were seen in 4% of patients using a topical emulsion containing 17beta-estradiol 3
- The most common skin irritation symptoms included itching, erythema, vesicle, and burning sensation 4
- Other side effects reported included headache, endometrial thickening, and breast pain 3
Tolerability and Acceptability
- The estradiol patch was well tolerated and few side-effects were reported 2
- Overall rates of adverse experiences were similar for Estraderm MX and placebo 5
- The number of patients reporting skin irritation was low and similar in both groups 5
- Tolerance was good and similar for both the 0.5- and 0.1-mg estradiol/day patches 6
- The patches were generally well tolerated, and acceptability was satisfactory 4