What it is used for
- Hot flushes and night sweats of menopause
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Mood and sleep symptoms related to menopause
- Protecting bone strength in some people at risk of osteoporosis
How it works
It replaces estrogen that falls at menopause, easing symptoms caused by low hormone levels. If you still have a womb, a progestogen is added to protect the womb lining.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets, skin patches, gels, sprays, and vaginal creams, rings, or pessaries for local symptoms. The right type and combination depend on your situation. Take or apply it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs, and have regular reviews.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Headache
- Mood changes
- Irregular bleeding or spotting in the early months
- Leg cramps
- Skin irritation with patches or gels
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of a blood clot (painful swollen calf, sudden breathlessness, chest pain)
- Signs of a stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech)
- Severe chest pain
- A new breast lump
- Unexpected or heavy vaginal bleeding
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Liver-enzyme-inducing medicines (some epilepsy and TB drugs, St John's Wort)
- Some thyroid medicines may need review
- Tell your clinician about all medicines and supplements
Who should take care
- Risks and benefits differ by age, type, and personal and family history, so discuss them with your clinician
- Tell your clinician about any history of breast cancer, blood clots, stroke, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Patches and gels may carry a lower clot risk than tablets for some people
- Report any unexpected vaginal bleeding promptly
- Attend regular reviews and screening