What side effects can this medication cause?
Common side effects from estradiol use include:
abdominal cramping or bloating
acne (usually less common after first 3 months and may improve if acne already exists)
breast pain
tenderness or swelling
dizziness
nausea
swelling of ankles and feet
unusual tiredness or weakness
vomiting
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting
swollen breasts
acne or skin color changes
decreased sex drive
migraine headaches or dizziness
vaginal pain, dryness, or discomfort
water retention (swollen hands, feet, or ankles)
depression
changes in your menstrual cycle or break-through bleeding
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives)
shortness or breath or pain in the chest
a painful, red, swollen leg
abnormal vaginal bleeding
pain, swelling, or tenderness in the abdomen
severe headache or vomiting, dizziness, faintness or changes in vision or speech
yellowing of the skin or eyes or
a lump in a breast
IMPORTANT NOTE: Estradiol increases the risk of developing a condition (endometrial hyperplasia) that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus. Taking progestins, another hormone drug, while using estradiol lowers the risk of developing this condition. Therefore, if your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take together while using estradiol. Visit your doctor regularly and report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away.
Treatment with estradiol long-term may increase the risk of a stroke. Because of this risk, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss your individual risks and benefits before taking estradiol long-term. You should also talk to your doctor or healthcare provider on a regular basis (for example, every 3-6 months) about whether you should continue this treatment.
Why is this medication prescribed?
Dosage and using this medicine
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?