Estraderm ^*

Side Effects

This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

The information leaflet that comes with the medication includes full information about the possible side effects. Be sure to read and understand these, and if there are any questions, discuss these with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting treatment.

Caution

If a sudden allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) occurs shortly after taking Estraderm, with symptoms like swelling of the face, tongue, or throat making it difficult to breathe or swallow, or there is wheezing, hives, rash, blistering, or peeling of the skin, call a doctor or emergency services right away, or go to an emergency room immediately.

Pregnant women should not be using Estraderm unless this has been discussed with a healthcare provider, as it might harm the unborn baby or pose a risk of miscarriage. For this reason, women planning to become pregnant should use appropriate birth control measures during the treatment and for one month after removing the last patch.

Estraderm may pass into breast milk, and mothers should consult with a doctor if already feeding or planning to feed an infant.

Most people who use Estraderm do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.

Some of the side effects that have been reported include application site irritation or itching, breast pain or tenderness, rash, dizziness, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, joint pain, spotting or breakthrough bleeding, and weight gain. Less common effects may include vaginal thrush, wind, palpitations, breast fullness, painful periods, swelling of the hands or feet, fluid retention, muscle pain, allergic reactions, bloating, and gallstones.

Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Estraderm is FDA‑approved for the treatment of symptoms associated with menopause or surgical removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy), in women who are not naturally producing adequate estrogen . These menopausal symptoms include:

• Hot flushes: sudden warmth, sweating, and flushing.
• Insomnia: difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep.
• Urogenital changes: vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse.
• Mood disturbances: mood swings, irritability, anxiety.
• Bone loss: increased risk of fractures due to osteoporosis.

Estraderm may also be used off‑label for osteoporosis prevention by addressing estrogen deficiency–related bone loss, helping to maintain bone density, though this use is not formally approved. In such cases, symptoms like fragile bones and height loss due to vertebral collapse may improve with estrogen supplementation.