osudhkosh

Generic

Estriol

8 brands available in the market

At a glance

Estriol cream is a hormone replacement therapy used for the treatment of vaginal dryness, itching and painful sexual intercourse during menopause.

Description

Estriol cream is indicated for deficiency of estrogen. During menopause, the amount of estrogens produced by a woman's body gradually drops. Shortage of estrogens causes the vaginal wall to become thin and dry which leads to painful sexual intercourse. Estriol cream is used to relieve painful sexual intercourse.

Estriol Cream is a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It contains the female hormone estriol (an estrogen). During menopause Estriol is used in vagina which is slowly released and absorbed into the surrounding area and into the bloodstream.

Indications
  • Vaginal dryness and atrophy during menopause: Used for treatment of vaginal dryness, itching and painful sexual intercourse.
  • Estrogen deficiency: Used for urogenital symptoms such as vaginal dryness and irritation.
  • Before surgery: One dose of cream daily 2 weeks before operation.
Therapeutic class

Drugs for Infertility, Drugs for menopausal symptoms: Hormone replacement therapy, Female Sex hormones

Pharmacological class

Estrogen (Topical)

Pharmacology

Estriol Cream is a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It contains the female hormone estriol (an estrogen). Estriol induces the normalization of the vaginal epithelium and thus helps to restore the normal microflora and the physiological pH in the vagina. As a result, it increases the resistance of the vaginal epithelial cells to infection and inflammation.

Mechanism of action

Estriol normalizes the vaginal epithelium and helps relieve vaginal dryness.

Dosage

Adult Dose:

  • Vulvo-vaginal complaints associated with menopause: Initially: one dose of cream per day for 3 weeks; later: one dose twice a week.
  • Before surgery: One dose of cream daily 2 weeks before operation.
  • Before Pap smear: Daily application for 7 days as recommended by doctor.

Each dose contains 0.5 mg estriol.

Administration

For vaginal use only. Remove cap from tube, invert it, and use the sharp point to open the tube. Pull the plunger up to the ring. Attach it to the opening of the tube. Squeeze the tube slowly to fill the applicator to the ring-mark. To apply, lie down; insert the applicator deep into the vagina. Slowly push the plunger all the way in. After use, wash both parts in warm, soapy water. Do not put in hot or boiling water.

Missed dose

If you forget a dose, use it as soon as you remember. But if you remember at the time of your next dose, do not use an extra dose.

Side effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Local irritation or itching of vagina
  • Swelling and increased tenderness of the breasts
  • Increased vaginal discharge
  • Nausea
  • Fluid retention (swollen ankles or feet)

Others: Endometrial cancer, heart attack, stroke, gall bladder disease, skin problems, venous thromboembolism.

Precautions & warnings

Precautions:

  • Patients should keep under doctor's observation for any HRT.
  • In case of jaundice, sudden high blood pressure, migraine, severe headache or pregnancy, use should be stopped immediately.
  • Children are not allowed to use Estriol cream.
  • Tell your doctor if vaginal bleeding occurs.
Contraindications

Contraindications:

  • Breast cancer (past or suspected)
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Heart attack, stroke, angina
  • Liver disease
  • Thrombosis, pulmonary embolism
  • Vaginal cancer
  • Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
  • Pregnancy
  • Porphyria
  • Hypersensitivity
Drug interactions

Drug Interactions:

  • Anticoagulants
  • Corticosteroid hormones
  • Succinylcholine, theophyllines
  • Medicines for epilepsy
  • Medicines for fungal or bacterial infections
  • Medicines for viral infections
  • St. John's Wort
Food interactions

Food Interactions: Caution is advised when consuming alcohol. Consult your doctor.

Use in pregnancy

Use in Pregnancy: Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.

Pregnancy Category: B3 — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

Use in Lactation: Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.

Pediatric use

Pediatric Use: Children are not allowed to use.

Geriatric use

Geriatric Use: No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver disease; contraindicated in severe liver disease.

Overdose effects

Overdose: Limited information is available on overdose. Excessive use may cause local irritation.

Storage conditions

Storage: Store below 25 degree C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Estriol

Common questions

Q1: What is Estriol cream used for?
It is used for vaginal dryness, itching and painful sexual intercourse during menopause.
Q2: How should it be used?
Apply cream deep into vagina using applicator; initially 1 dose daily for 3 weeks, then twice weekly.
Q3: What are the common side effects?
Vaginal irritation, itching, breast tenderness, increased vaginal discharge, nausea, fluid retention.
Q4: Who should not use it?
Patients with breast cancer, liver disease, thrombosis, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, pregnancy.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.