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Estradiol Valerate: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Estradiol Valerate is an injectable estrogen ester used mainly in postmenopausal hormone therapy.

Forms:Tablet

About Estradiol Valerate

Indications of Estradiol Valerate

Estradiol Valerate is an injectable estrogen ester used mainly in postmenopausal hormone therapy. Established, FDA-approved indications include:

  • Moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats) associated with menopause.
  • Moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy due to menopause, although low-dose topical or vaginal estrogen products are generally preferred when systemic therapy is not otherwise needed.
  • Hypoestrogenism due to hypogonadism, castration, or primary ovarian failure.
  • Palliative treatment of advanced, androgen-dependent carcinoma of the prostate in men (not curative), as adjunct hormonal therapy.

Estradiol Valerate is also used as a component of certain combined estrogen-progestin hormone replacement or contraceptive regimens; it is not intended for use as a contraceptive on its own.

Estradiol Valerate is not indicated for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or dementia and should not be used for this purpose.

Dosage & Administration of Estradiol Valerate

IndicationTypical Adult Dose of Estradiol Valerate
Vasomotor symptoms of menopause / vulvovaginal atrophy10-20 mg by deep intramuscular injection every 4 weeks; use the lowest effective dose and attempt to taper or discontinue at 3-6 month intervals.
Female hypoestrogenism (hypogonadism, castration, primary ovarian failure)10-20 mg by deep intramuscular injection every 4 weeks, individualized to symptom control.
Palliative therapy of advanced androgen-dependent prostate cancer30 mg or more by deep intramuscular injection every 1-2 weeks, under specialist supervision.

Women with an intact uterus generally require concomitant progestin therapy alongside Estradiol Valerate to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia/cancer associated with unopposed estrogen use (see Precautions and Warnings).

Side Effects of Estradiol Valerate

Estradiol Valerate may cause the following adverse effects:

Common

  • Breast tenderness, enlargement, or pain
  • Nausea, bloating, abdominal cramps
  • Headache, migraine
  • Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Fluid retention, mild weight change
  • Mood changes, irritability

Less common but serious

  • Venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism)
  • Myocardial infarction or stroke
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Cholestatic jaundice
  • Hypertension
  • Increased risk of endometrial and breast cancer with prolonged use (see Precautions and Warnings)

Patients should seek prompt medical attention for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, leg swelling/pain, sudden severe headache, vision changes, or signs of jaundice while using Estradiol Valerate.

Contraindications of Estradiol Valerate

  • Known hypersensitivity to Estradiol Valerate or any component of the formulation.
  • Undiagnosed abnormal genital/vaginal bleeding.
  • Known, suspected, or history of breast cancer, or other known or suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasia.
  • Active or history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or active/recent (within the past year) arterial thromboembolic disease such as stroke or myocardial infarction.
  • Known thrombophilic disorders.
  • Known or suspected pregnancy.
  • Active liver disease or severe hepatic impairment.

Estradiol Valerate must not be used in patients with any of the above conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Estradiol Valerate

What is Estradiol Valerate used for?

Estradiol Valerate is mainly used to relieve moderate to severe menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, to treat low estrogen levels caused by ovarian failure or removal of the ovaries, and as palliative treatment for advanced prostate cancer in men.

How is Estradiol Valerate given?

Estradiol Valerate is given as a deep intramuscular injection, usually every 4 weeks for menopausal symptoms, by a trained healthcare professional. It should never be self-injected without medical guidance.

Can Estradiol Valerate be used during pregnancy?

No. Estradiol Valerate is contraindicated during pregnancy, and treatment should be stopped immediately if pregnancy occurs or is suspected.

Is Estradiol Valerate safe while breastfeeding?

Estradiol Valerate can reduce the amount and quality of breast milk and passes into breast milk in small amounts, so it should generally be avoided during breastfeeding unless a physician determines the benefits outweigh the risks.

What are the serious risks of Estradiol Valerate?

Estrogen therapy, including Estradiol Valerate, carries an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and — in women with an intact uterus who are not also taking a progestin — endometrial cancer. Long-term use is also associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. Report unusual vaginal bleeding, leg swelling, chest pain, or sudden severe headache to your doctor immediately.

Who should not use Estradiol Valerate?

Women with undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, known or suspected breast cancer, a history of blood clots or stroke, active liver disease, or known/suspected pregnancy should not use Estradiol Valerate. Always disclose your full medical history to your physician before starting treatment.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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