Эстрева гель инструкция по применению

При лечении симптомов постменопаузы ЗГТ следует начинать только при наличии симптомов, неблагоприятно влияющих на качество жизни. Следует, по меньшей мере, 1 раз в год проводить детальную оценку рисков и пользы и назначать ЗГТ лишь в том случае, если польза превышает риск.

Данные относительно рисков, связанных с проведением ЗГТ для лечения преждевременной менопаузы, ограничены. Однако, учитывая низкий абсолютный риск ЗГТ у женщин молодого возраста, соотношение пользы и риска у таких женщин, возможно, более благоприятно, чем у женщин старшего возраста.

Перед началом или повторным назначением ЗГТ необходимо собрать полный личный и семейный анамнез. Следует провести медицинское обследование с целью выявления возможных противопоказаний и соблюдения необходимых предосторожностей при приеме препарата (включая обследование органов малого таза и молочных желез). В процессе лечения рекомендуется проводить периодическое обследование. Частота и методы, входящие в него, определяются для каждого конкретного случая индивидуально. Исследования, включая маммографию, следует проводить в соответствии с принятыми нормами и адаптироваться к индивидуальным клиническим потребностям каждого отдельного случая.

Во время применения пациенткой препаратов для ЗГТ необходимо проводить тщательную оценку всех преимуществ и риска терапии.

Состояния, которые требуют наблюдения

Если любые из нижеперечисленных состояний присутствуют, встречались ранее и/или обострялись во время беременности или предшествующей гормональной терапии, пациентка должна находиться под постоянным наблюдением врача. Следует принять во внимание, что эти состояния могут, в редких случаях, рецидивировать или обостряться во время лечения препаратом Эстрожель^®, в частности:

• миома матки или эндометриоз;
• факторы риска развития тромбоэмболических заболеваний;
• факторы риска эстрогензависимых опухолей (наличие родственников первой линии родства с раком молочной железы);
• артериальная гипертензия;
• заболевания печени (например, аденома печени);
• сахарный диабет с или без диабетической ангиопатии;
• холелитиаз;
• мигрень и/или сильная головная боль;
• системная красная волчанка;
• гиперплазия эндометрия в анамнезе;
• эпилепсия;
• бронхиальная астма;
• отосклероз;
• наследственный ангионевротический отек.

Причины для немедленного прекращения терапии

Терапия должна быть прекращена в случае, если обнаружены противопоказания и/или в следующих ситуациях:

• желтуха или ухудшение функции печени;
• выраженное повышение АД;
• вновь возникшие приступы мигренеподобной головной боли;
• беременность.

Гиперплазия и рак эндометрия

У женщин с интактной маткой риск возникновения гиперплазии и рака эндометрия повышается при приеме эстрогенов в течение длительного времени. По имеющимся данным, риск развития рака эндометрия у женщин, применяющих только эстрогены, возрастает в 2-12 раз в сравнении с женщинами, не применяющими эстрогены, в зависимости от длительности лечения и дозы эстрогенов. После прекращения лечения повышенный риск может сохраняться на протяжении как минимум 10 лет.

Добавление гестагена в последние 12 дней месяца/28 дней цикла или непрерывная комбинированная эстроген-гестагенная терапия у женщин с неудаленной маткой снижает повышенный риск развития гиперплазии и рака эндометрия, ассоциированный с ЗГТ только эстрогенами.

В течение первых месяцев лечения могут наблюдаться прорывные кровотечения и мажущие кровянистые выделения. Если прорывное кровотечение или мажущие кровянистые выделения появляются после некоторого периода лечения или продолжаются после отмены лечения, необходимо провести обследование для выявления причин их возникновения, включая биопсию эндометрия для исключения злокачественного новообразования эндометрия.

Применение препаратов для ЗГТ, содержащих только эстроген, может приводить к предраковой или злокачественной трансформации остаточных очагов эндометриоза. Таким образом, у женщин, перенесших гистерэктомию в связи с эндометриозом, следует предусмотреть добавление гестагена к заместительной терапии эстрогенами с целью профилактики рака эндометрия, если известно, что у них имеются резидуальные очаги эндометриоза.

Рак молочной железы

Имеющиеся данные свидетельствуют о повышении риска рака молочной железы у женщин, получающих комбинированные эстроген-гестагенные препараты и, возможно, также препараты для ЗГТ, содержащие только эстроген; этот риск зависит от длительности применения ЗГТ.

Применение препаратов для ЗГТ, содержащих только эстроген

В исследовании WHI не обнаружено повышения риска развития рака молочной железы у женщин, перенесших гистерэктомию и применяющих препараты для ЗГТ, содержащие только эстроген.

В наблюдательных исследованиях в большинстве случаев сообщается о небольшом увеличении риска диагностирования рака молочной железы, который существенно ниже, чем у женщин, применяющих комбинированные эстроген-гестагенные препараты.

Применение комбинированных эстроген-гестагенных препаратов для ЗГТ

В исследовании WHI и в эпидемиологических исследованиях получены совпадающие данные о повышении риска рака молочной железы у женщин, получающих комбинированные эстроген-гестагенные препараты для ЗГТ; повышение риска обнаруживалось приблизительно через 3 года лечения.

Дополнительный риск начинает проявляться после нескольких лет лечения, но возвращается к исходному уровню в течение нескольких (не более 5) лет после прекращения лечения.

ЗГТ, в частности, комбинированными эстроген-гестагенными препаратами, приводит к повышению плотности маммографических изображений, что может препятствовать рентгенологическому выявлению рака молочной железы.

Рак яичников

Рак яичников встречается значительно реже, чем рак молочной железы. Длительное (не менее 5-10 лет) применение препаратов для ЗГТ, содержащих только эстроген, ассоциируется с некоторым увеличением риска развития рака яичников. В некоторых исследованиях, включая исследование WH1, выявлено, что длительное применение комбинированных препаратов для ЗГТ может обусловливать аналогичный или еще менее существенный риск.

Венозная тромбоэмболия

У женщин, получавших ЗГТ, наблюдается увеличение риска развития ВТЭ, в частности, тромбоза глубоких вен или тромбоэмболии легочной артерии, по сравнению с женщинами, не получавшими ЗГТ, в 1.3-3 раза. Вероятность развития ВТЭ более высока в первый год ЗГТ, чем в последующие годы.

Пациентки с известными тромбофилическими расстройствами могут иметь повышенный риск развития ВТЭ, и ЗГТ может его дополнительно повысить. Поэтому проведение ЗГТ у таких пациенток противопоказано.

Основные факторы риска развития ВТЭ: индивидуальный или семейный анамнез, применение эстрогенов, пожилой возраст, серьезные операции, длительная иммобилизация, выраженное ожирение (ИМТ более 30 кг/м²), беременность и послеродовый период, системная красная волчанка, злокачественные новообразования.

Нет единого мнения о возможной роли варикозного расширения вен в развитии ВТЭ.

Риск ВТЭ повышается при длительной иммобилизации, обширных травмах или обширных хирургических вмешательствах. Прием препаратов для ЗГТ должен быть прекращен за 4-6 недель до планируемых хирургических операций на органах брюшной полости или ортопедических операций на нижних конечностях. Лечение может быть возобновлено после полного восстановления двигательной способности.

Женщинам, не имеющим ВТЭ в анамнезе, но имеющим родственников первой линии родства, перенесших тромбозы в молодом возрасте, скрининг можно предложить после подробного обсуждения его ограничений (при скрининге выявляются лишь некоторые тромбофилические расстройства).

Если у пациентки выявляется тромбофилическое расстройство, проявлявшееся тромбозами у членов семьи, а также при наличии тяжелых дефектов (таких как дефицит антитромбина, протеина S или протеина С, или комбинации дефектов), проведение ЗГТ противопоказано.

У женщин, уже получающих постоянное лечение антикоагулянтами, требуется тщательная оценка соотношения пользы и риска ЗГТ.

Если после начала лечения развивается ВТЭ, препарат следует отменить. Пациенткам следует указать на необходимость немедленно связаться с врачом при появлении потенциальных симптомов тромбоэмболии болезненность и/или отечность нижней конечности, внезапные боли в грудной клетке, одышка).

Ишемическая болезнь сердца

В рандомизированных контролируемых исследованиях не получены данные о профилактическом эффекте в отношении инфаркта миокарда у женщин с или без ИБС, получавших ЗГТ комбинированными эстроген-гестагенными препаратами или только эстрогенами.

Применение препаратов для ЗГТ, содержащих только эстроген

В рандомизированных контролируемых исследованиях не получено данных о повышении риска ИБС у пациенток, перенесших гистерэктомию и получающих препараты для ЗГТ, содержащие только эстроген.

Применение комбинированных эстроген-гестагенных препаратов для ЗГТ

При применении комбинированных эстроген-гестагенных препаратов для ЗГТ отмечается небольшое увеличение относительного риска ИБС. Поскольку исходный абсолютный риск ИБС в значительной степени зависит от возраста, число дополнительных случаев ИБС, обусловленных применением эстрогенов в сочетании с гестагенами, у здоровых женщин, приближающихся к менопаузе, крайне мало, однако увеличивается с возрастом.

Ишемический инсульт

ЗГТ комбинированными эстроген-гестагенными препаратами и только эстрогенами связана с повышением риска ишемического инсульта почти в 1.5 раза. Относительный риск не меняется с возрастом и в зависимости от времени, прошедшего после наступления менопаузы. Однако, поскольку исходный риск инсульта в значительной степени зависит от возраста, общий риск инсульта у женщин, получающих ЗГТ, будет увеличиваться с возрастом.

Другие состояния

Эстрогены вызывают задержку жидкости в организме. Пациентки с сердечной или почечной недостаточностью должны находиться под постоянным наблюдением врача.

Необходимо тщательное наблюдение при проведении ЗГТ у женщин с гипертриглицеридемией в анамнезе, поскольку при этом состоянии на фоне терапии эстрогенами описаны редкие случаи резкого повышения концентрации триглицеридов в плазме крови, приводящие к развитию панкреатита.

Эстрогены повышают концентрацию тироксин-связывающего глобулина, приводя к увеличению общей концентрации циркулирующих гормонов щитовидной железы. Концентрации свободных Т₃ и Т₄ не изменяются.

Может увеличиться содержание других белков, например, кортикостероид-связывающего глобулина и глобулина, связывающего половые гормоны, что может приводить, соответственно, к увеличению общей концентрации циркулирующих глюкокортикоидов и половых гормонов. Концентрации свободных или биологических активных гормонов не изменяются. Возможно также увеличение содержания других белков плазмы крови (ангиотензиногена (субстрата ренина), альфа-1-антитрипсина, церулоплазмина).

Хлоазма

В некоторых случаях может развиваться хлоазма, в особенности у женщин, имеющих в анамнезе хлоазму во время беременности. Женщинам, имеющим склонность к развитию хлоазмы, на фоне применения ЗГТ следует свести к минимуму воздействие солнечного или ультрафиолетового облучения.

Влияние на когнитивную функцию

ЗГТ не влияет на улучшение когнитивной функции. В исследовании WHI показана тенденция к возможному увеличению риска развития деменции у женщин, которые начали длительную ЗГТ комбинированными эстроген-гестагенными препаратами или только эстрогенами в возрасте старше 65 лет.

Применение препарата Эстрожель должно производиться:

• самой женщиной;
• утром или вечером, на чистую кожу.

Препарат Эстрожель^® не оставляет пятен.

Влияние на способность к управлению транспортными средствами и механизмами

Влияние эстрогенов на способность управлять транспортными средствами и механизмами не изучалось.

Estreva general information

What is Estreva used for?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a familiar term when talking about the changes women go through at menopause, caused by a lack of the hormone estrogen.  Although a natural part of life, menopause can cause severe problems for some women.  Various different types of HRT are available, and Estreva 0.1% gel is a topical form of HRT that is absorbed through the skin instead of being taken as a tablet. 

You should only use Estreva gel if you have had a hysterectomy or are also taking progesterone as well, because of the health risk of estrogen-only HRT.

Estrogen is the female hormone produced by the ovaries that transforms the girl into the woman and plays a central role in all stages of female reproduction, along with other female hormones like progesterone.  Estrogen stimulates the development of female sexual characteristics, including breast development and body shape.  It regulates the menstrual cycle, triggers ovulation, and stimulates the thickening of the endometrium (lining of the uterus) and thickening of vaginal tissue and its secretions.  It also plays other essential roles including regulating lipid metabolism, and it supports bone density throughout the fertile years of a woman’s life.  As menopause approaches, estrogen production starts to slow down and eventually, no more is produced by the ovaries.  Menstruation ceases and this lack of estrogen brings with it a host of menopausal symptoms, some mild and some quite severe. 

Symptoms of menopause

Symptoms associated with low estrogen in menopause include hot flashes caused by sudden dilation of surface blood vessels.  When this happens at night, they cause night sweats.  Vaginal thinning and dryness known as atrophic vaginitis can cause discomfort or pain with sex and recurrent urine infections.  Other signs of menopause are headaches, mood swings, lack of concentration and loss of energy. 

Loss of bone density is a serious problem related to loss of estrogen and can lead to osteoporosis, which makes the bones brittle so that they fracture more easily.  Estreva gel relieves symptoms of menopause and also helps prevent postmenopausal bone loss (osteoporosis) to reduce the risk of fracture. 

Transgender hormone therapy

Estrogen is an essential component in transgender hormone therapy for male to female transsexuals as part of a gender reassignment program.  Estreva gel helps stimulate the development of female sexual characteristics, to promote the feminisation process, such as breast development.  It also induces metabolic changes such as fat distribution to redefine the general body shape.

How does Estreva work?

Estreva 0.1% is a transdermal gel that contains a synthetic form of estradiol that is chemically and biologically identical to naturally produced estradiol, which is the major and most active form of the female hormone estrogen. 

Estradiol in Estreva gel diffuses out of the gel and is absorbed through the skin into the blood.  It works by passing through the cell membrane and binding to specific receptors inside the cells of its target tissues.  These include the ovaries, uterus, bone and breast tissue.  Estrogen attached to its receptor then interacts directly with the DNA and promotes the expression (activation) of specific genes to make proteins needed for estrogen-dependent processes in those tissues, such as breast cell growth, improved lubrication of vaginal cells and increased bone density. 

Because estradiol in Estreva gel does not pass through the gastrointestinal system but instead enters the blood directly and continuously, it is not metabolised (broken down) by the liver, as happens when estrogen is taken orally in tablet form. 

What does Estreva contain?

Estreva gel contains the active ingredient estradiol hemihydrate 0.1%, which is used for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to relieve symptoms of estrogen deficiency in menopausal women. 

Each 50 g bottle of gel comes with a dosing pump that delivers a total of 100 doses of 0.5g gel containing 0.5mg estradiol per dose.

What are the side effects of Estreva?

Most medications have some side effects, but they are not experienced by everyone.  Some side effects are commonly experienced when taking Estreva, but others are not so common, and you should discuss any problems or concerns with your primary care physician. 

Common side effects when taking Estreva include irritation where the gel is applied, breast tenderness, breast pain, abdominal pain, nausea, oedema, and headache, breakthrough bleeding and spotting.

What are the health risks of Estreva?

Long-term use of estrogen-only HRT medication like Estreva gel does have risks attached, and it is, therefore, important to consider the risks versus the benefits.  There is an increased risk of breast cancer and endometrial cancer; also stroke and blood clot formation, that can result in deep vein thrombosis.

When should Estreva not be used?

Have a talk with your primary healthcare physician before taking Estreva so that you have a full understanding of what this medicine is for and how to use it.  There are some reasons for not taking a medication; these are called contraindications, and for Estreva you should consider the following before taking Estreva:

• Have you ever had an unusual reaction or an allergy when taking Estreva?
• Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?
• Do you have any problems with your liver or had a liver disease?
• Have you had an estrogen-dependent cancer including cancer of the breast or endometrium?
• Have you had any condition caused by a blood clot such as deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the leg), pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)?
• Do you have a heart condition like angina and have you ever had cardiovascular disease, including a heart attack or stroke or uncontrolled high blood pressure?
• Have you had abnormal genital bleeding of unknown cause?

What medications interact with Estreva?

Some medicines interact with Estreva and may affect the way it works, or are affected by Estreva or increase side effects; you should discuss possible interactions with your primary care physician.  These may include medications that increase the metabolism of estrogen, such as anticonvulsants like phenytoin and carbamazepin, anti-infectives like rifampicin, rifabutin, nevirapine, efavirenz or preparations containing St John’s Wort. 

If other medications may interact with Estreva, your doctor will discuss these with you. 

How should Estreva be used and for how long?

Estreva gel 0.1% comes with a dosing pump and each dose delivers 0.5g of gel containing 0.5 mg of estradiol. 

You should apply Estreva gel three times daily for either 24 or 28 days per month.  The dose you take may be adjusted by your doctor, and you should use your Estreva gel for as long as your doctor recommends.

You should apply Estreva gel by rubbing into clean, dry, unbroken skin on your abdomen, thighs, arms and shoulders but not the breasts or face.  Use a different sites for each application.  Do not apply to skin that is red or irritated and avoid contact with your eyes.  Allow the gel to dry on your skin for a few minutes and do not wash the skin or apply other skincare products until at least one hour after application.  Wash your hands after applying Estreva gel.  

Unless you have had your uterus removed, you will probably be taking a form of progesterone as well as Estreva

Missed dose of Estreva

If you miss a dose of Estreva gel take it as soon as you remember, unless it is time to take the next dose, then skip the missed dose.  Do not take a double dose.

How should Estreva be stored?

You should store your Estreva gel below 25°C in a cool dry place. 

WARNINGS

Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.

PRECAUTIONS

Cardiovascular Disorders

An increased risk of stroke and DVT has been reported with estrogen-alone therapy. An increased risk of PE, DVT, stroke and MI has been reported with estrogen plus progestin therapy. Should any of these occur or be suspected, estrogen with or without progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately.

Risk factors for arterial vascular disease (for example, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) (for example, personal history or family history of VTE, obesity, and systemic lupus erythematosus) should be managed appropriately.

Stroke

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, a statistically significant increased risk of stroke was reported in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (45 versus 33 per 10,000 women-years). The increase in risk was demonstrated in year 1 and persisted. Should a stroke occur or be suspected, estrogen-alone therapy should be discontinued immediately.

Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest no increased risk of stroke for those women receiving CE (0.625 mg)-alone versus those receiving placebo (18 versus 21 per 10,000 women-years).¹

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, a statistically significant increased risk of stroke was reported in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 per 10,000 women years). The increase in risk was demonstrated after the first year and persisted.¹ Should a stroke occur or be suspected, estrogen plus progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately.

Coronary Heart Disease

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, no overall effect on coronary heart disease (CHD) events (defined as nonfatal MI, silent MI, or CHD death) was reported in women receiving estrogen-alone compared to placebo².

Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest a statistically non-significant reduction in CHD events (CE [0.625 mg]-alone compared to placebo) in women with less than 10 years since menopause (8 versus 16 per 10,000 women-years).¹

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, there was a statistically non-significant increased risk of CHD events reported in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (41 versus 34 per 10,000 women-years).¹ An increase in relative risk was demonstrated in year 1, and a trend toward decreasing relative risk was reported in years 2 through 5.

In postmenopausal women with documented heart disease (n = 2,763), average 66.7 years of age, in a controlled clinical trial of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study [HERS]), treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) demonstrated no cardiovascular benefit. During an average follow-up of 4.1 years, treatment with CE plus MPA did not reduce the overall rate of CHD events in postmenopausal women with established coronary heart disease. There were more CHD events in the CE plus MPA-treated group than in the placebo group in year 1, but not during the subsequent years. A total of 2,321 women from the original HERS trial agreed to participate in an open label extension of HERS, HERS II. Average follow-up in HERS II was an additional 2.7 years, for a total of 6.8 years overall. Rates of CHD events were comparable among women in the CE plus MPA group and the placebo group in HERS, HERS II, and overall.

Venous Thromboembolism

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, the risk of VTE (DVT and PE) was increased for women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to placebo (30 versus 22 per 10,000 women-years), although only the increased risk of DVT reached statistical significance (23 versus 15 per 10,000 women-years). The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first 2 years³. Should a VTE occur or be suspected, estrogen-alone therapy should be discontinued immediately.

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, a statistically significant 2-fold greater rate of VTE was reported in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (35 versus 17 per 10,000 women-years). Statistically significant increases in risk for both DVT (26 versus 13 per 10,000 women-years) and PE (18 versus 8 per 10,000 women-years) were also demonstrated. The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first year and persisted⁴. Should a VTE occur or be suspected, estrogen plus progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately.

If feasible, estrogens should be discontinued at least 4 to 6 weeks before surgery of the type associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, or during periods of prolonged immobilization.

Malignant Neoplasms

Endometrial Cancer

An increased risk of endometrial cancer has been reported with the use of unopposed estrogen therapy in a woman with a uterus. The reported endometrial cancer risk among unopposed estrogen users is about 2 to 12 times greater than in nonusers, and appears dependent on duration of treatment and on estrogen dose. Most studies show no significant increased risk associated with use of estrogens for less than 1 year. The greatest risk appears associated with prolonged use, with increased risks of 15-to 24-fold for 5 to 10 years or more. This risk has been shown to persist for at least 8 to 15 years after estrogen therapy is discontinued.

Clinical surveillance of all women using estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin therapy is important. Adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated, should be undertaken to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding.

There is no evidence that the use of natural estrogens results in a different endometrial risk profile than synthetic estrogens of equivalent estrogen dose. Adding a progestin to estrogen therapy in postmenopausal women has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer.

Breast Cancer

The most important randomized clinical trial providing information about breast cancer in estrogen-alone users is the WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone. In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, after an average follow-up of 7.1 years, daily CE-alone was not associated with an increased risk of invasive breast cancer [relative risk (RR) 0.80]⁵.

The most important randomized clinical trial providing information about breast cancer in estrogen plus progestin users is the WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg). After a mean follow-up of 5.6 years, the estrogen plus progestin substudy reported an increased risk of invasive breast cancer in women who took daily CE plus MPA.

In this substudy, prior use of estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin therapy was reported by 26 percent of the women. The relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.24, and the absolute risk was 41 versus 33 cases per 10,000 women-years, for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. Among women who reported prior use of hormone therapy, the relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.86, and the absolute risk was 46 versus 25 cases per 10,000 women-years for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. Among women who reported no prior use of hormone therapy, the relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.09, and the absolute risk was 40 versus 36 cases per 10,000 women-years for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. In the same substudy, invasive breast cancers were larger, were more likely to be node positive, and were diagnosed at a more advanced stage in the CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) group compared with the placebo group. Metastatic disease was rare, with no apparent difference between the two groups. Other prognostic factors, such as histologic subtype, grade and hormone receptor status did not differ between the groups⁶.

Consistent with the WHI clinical trial, observational studies have also reported an increased risk of breast cancer for estrogen plus progestin therapy, and a smaller increased risk for estrogen-alone therapy, after several years of use. The risk increased with duration of use, and appeared to return to baseline over about 5 years after stopping treatment (only the observational studies have substantial data on risk after stopping). Observational studies also suggest that the risk of breast cancer was greater, and became apparent earlier, with estrogen plus progestin therapy as compared to estrogen-alone therapy. However, these studies have not generally found significant variation in the risk of breast cancer among different estrogen plus progestin combinations, doses, or routes of administration.

The use of estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin has been reported to result in an increase in abnormal mammograms requiring further evaluation.

All women should receive yearly breast examinations by a healthcare provider and perform monthly breast self-examinations. In addition, mammography examinations should be scheduled based on patient age, risk factors, and prior mammogram results.

Ovarian Cancer

The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically non-significant increased risk of ovarian cancer. After an average follow-up of 5.6 years, the relative risk for ovarian cancer for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 1.58 (95 percent CI, 0.77-3.24). The absolute risk for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 4 versus 3 cases per 10,000 women-years.⁷ A meta-analysis of 17 prospective and 35 retrospective epidemiology studies found that women who used hormonal therapy for menopausal symptoms had an increased risk for ovarian cancer. The primary analysis, using case-control comparisons, included 12,110 cancer cases from the 17 prospective studies. The relative risks associated with current use of hormonal therapy was 1.41 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32 to 1.50); there was no difference in the risk estimates by duration of the exposure (less than 5 years [median of 3 years]vs. greater than 5 years [median of 10 years] of use before the cancer diagnosis). The relative risk associated with combined current and recent use (discontinued use within 5 years before cancer diagnosis) was 1.37 (95% CI 1.27 to 1.48), and the elevated risk was significant for both estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin products. The exact duration of hormone therapy use associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer, however, is unknown.

Probable Dementia

In the WHIMS estrogen-alone ancillary study of WHI, a population of 2,947 hysterectomized women 65 to 79 years of age was randomized to daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone or placebo.

After an average follow-up of 5.2 years, 28 women in the estrogen-alone group and 19 women in the placebo group were diagnosed with probable dementia. The relative risk of probable dementia for CE-alone versus placebo was 1.49 (95 percent CI, 0.83-2.66). The absolute risk of probable dementia for CE-alone versus placebo was 37 versus 25 cases per 10,000 women-years⁸.

In the WHIMS estrogen plus progestin ancillary study, a population of 4,532 postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age was randomized to daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) or placebo. After an average follow-up of 4 years, 40 women in the CE plus MPA group and 21 women in the placebo group were diagnosed with probable dementia. The relative risk of probable dementia for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 2.05 (95 percent CI, 1.21-3.48). The absolute risk of probable dementia for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 45 versus 22 cases per 10,000 women-years⁸.

When data from the two populations in the WHIMS estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin ancillary studies were pooled as planned in the WHIMS protocol, the reported overall relative risk for probable dementia was 1.76 (95 percent CI, 1.19-2.60). Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women⁸.

Gallbladder Disease

A 2-to 4-fold increase in the risk of gallbladder disease requiring surgery in postmenopausal women receiving estrogens has been reported.

Hypercalcemia

Estrogen administration may lead to severe hypercalcemia in women with breast cancer and bone metastases. If hypercalcemia occurs, use of the drug should be stopped and appropriate measures taken to reduce the serum calcium level.

Visual Abnormalities

Retinal vascular thrombosis has been reported in women receiving estrogens. Discontinue medication pending examination if there is sudden partial or complete loss of vision, or a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine. If examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions, estrogens should be permanently discontinued.

Addition Of A Progestin When A Woman Has Not Had A Hysterectomy

Studies of the addition of a progestin for 10 or more days of a cycle of estrogen administration, or daily with estrogen in a continuous regimen, have reported a lowered incidence of endometrial hyperplasia than would be induced by estrogen treatment alone. Endometrial hyperplasia may be a precursor to endometrial cancer.

There are, however, possible risks that may be associated with the use of progestins with estrogens compared to estrogen-alone regimens. These include an increased risk of breast cancer.

Elevated Blood Pressure

In a small number of case reports, substantial increases in blood pressure have been attributed to idiosyncratic reactions to estrogens. In a large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a generalized effect of estrogens on blood pressure was not seen.

Hypertriglyceridemia

In women with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia, estrogen therapy may be associated with elevations of plasma triglycerides leading to pancreatitis. Consider discontinuation of treatment if pancreatitis occurs.

Hepatic Impairment And/Or Past History Of Cholestatic Jaundice

Estrogens may be poorly metabolized in women with impaired liver function. For women with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with past estrogen use or with pregnancy, caution should be exercised, and in the case of recurrence, medication should be discontinued.

Hypothyroidism

Estrogen administration leads to increased thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) levels. Women with normal thyroid function can compensate for the increased TBG by making more thyroid hormone, thus maintaining free T4 and T3 serum concentrations in the normal range. Women dependent on thyroid hormone replacement therapy who are also receiving estrogens may require increased doses of their thyroid replacement therapy. These women should have their thyroid function monitored in order to maintain their free thyroid hormone levels in an acceptable range.

Fluid Retention

Estrogens may cause some degree of fluid retention. Women with conditions that might be influenced by this factor, such as a cardiac or renal impairment, warrant careful observation when estrogen-alone is prescribed.

Hypocalcemia

Estrogen therapy should be used with caution in women with hypoparathyroidism as estrogen-induced hypocalcemia may occur.

Exacerbation Of Endometriosis

A few cases of malignant transformation of residual endometrial implants have been reported in women treated post-hysterectomy with estrogen-alone therapy. For women known to have residual endometriosis post-hysterectomy, the addition of progestin should be considered.

Hereditary Angioedema

Exogenous estrogens may exacerbate symptoms of angioedema in women with hereditary angioedema.

Exacerbation Of Other Conditions

Estrogen therapy may cause an exacerbation of asthma, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, migraine, porphyria, systemic lupus erythematosus, and hepatic hemangiomas and should be used with caution in women with these conditions.

Laboratory Tests

Serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol levels have not been shown to be useful in the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms and moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy.

Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions

Accelerated prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and platelet aggregation time; increased platelet count; increased factors II, VII antigen, VIII antigen, VIII coagulant activity, IX, X, XII, VII-X complex, II-VII-X complex, and beta-thromboglobulin; decreased levels of antifactor Xa and antithrombin III, decreased antithrombin III activity; increased levels of fibrinogen and fibrinogen activity; increased plasminogen antigen and activity.

Increased TBG levels leading to increased circulating total thyroid hormone, as measured by protein-bound iodine (PBI), T4 levels (by column or by radioimmunoassay) or T3 levels by radioimmunoassay. T3 resin uptake is decreased, reflecting the elevated TBG. Free T4 and free T3 concentrations are unaltered. Women on thyroid replacement therapy may require higher doses of thyroid hormone.

Other binding proteins may be elevated in serum, for example, corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), leading to increased total circulating corticosteroids and sex steroids, respectively. Free hormone concentrations, such as testosterone and estradiol, may be decreased. Other plasma proteins may be increased (angiotensinogen/renin substrate, alpha-l-antitrypsin, ceruloplasmin).

Increased plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and HDL₂ cholesterol subfraction concentrations, reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentration, and increased triglyceride levels.

Impaired glucose tolerance.

Patient Counseling Information

See FDA-approved patient labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION and Instructions for Use)

Vaginal Bleeding

Inform postmenopausal women of the importance of reporting vaginal bleeding to their healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Possible Serious Adverse Reactions With Estrogen-Alone Therapy

Inform postmenopausal women of possible serious adverse reactions of estrogen-alone therapy including cardiovascular disorders, malignant neoplasms, and probable dementia.

Possible Less Serious But Common Adverse Reactions With Estrogen-Alone Therapy

Inform postmenopausal women of possible less serious but common adverse reactions of estrogen-alone therapy such as headache, breast pain and tenderness, nausea and vomiting.

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

Long-term continuous administration of natural and synthetic estrogens in certain animal species increases the frequency of carcinomas of the breast, uterus, cervix, vagina, testis, and liver.

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Estreva 0.1% should not be used during pregnancy. There appears to be little or no increased risk of birth defects in children born to women who have used estrogens and progestins as oral contraceptives inadvertently during early pregnancy.

Nursing Mothers

Estreva 0.1% should not be used during lactation. Estrogen administration to nursing women has been shown to decrease the quantity and quality of the breast milk. Detectable amounts of estrogens have been identified in the breast milk of women receiving estrogen therapy. Caution should be exercised when the Estreva 0.1% transdermal system is administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric Use

Estreva 0.1% is not indicated in children. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population.

Geriatric Use

There have not been sufficient numbers of geriatric women involved in clinical studies utilizing Estreva 0.1% to determine whether those over 65 years of age differ from younger subjects in their response to Estreva 0.1%.

The Women’s Health Initiative Studies

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg]-alone versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of stroke in women greater than 65 years of age.

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] plus MPA [2.5 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of nonfatal stroke and invasive breast cancer in women greater than 65 years of age.

The Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study

In the WHIMS ancillary studies of postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age, there was an increased risk of developing probable dementia in women receiving estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin when compared to placebo.

Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women⁸.

Renal Impairment

In postmenopausal women with end stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving maintenance hemodialysis, total estradiol serum levels are higher than in normal subjects at baseline and following oral doses of estradiol. Therefore, conventional transdermal estradiol doses used in individuals with normal renal function may be excessive for postmenopausal women with ESRD receiving maintenance hemodialysis.

Hepatic Impairment

Estrogens may be poorly metabolized in patients with impaired liver function and should be administered with caution.

REFERENCES

1. Rossouw JE, et al. Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease by Age and Years Since Menopause. JAMA. 2007;297:1465-1477.

2. Hsia J, et al. Conjugated Equine Estrogens and Coronary Heart Disease. Arch Int Med. 2006;166:357-365.

3. Curb JD, et al. Venous Thrombosis and Conjugated Equine Estrogen in Women Without a Uterus. Arch Int Med. 2006;166:772-780.

4. Cushman M, et al. Estrogen Plus Progestin and Risk of Venous Thrombosis. JAMA. 2004;292:1573-1580.

5. Stefanick ML, et al. Effects of Conjugated Equine Estrogens on Breast Cancer and Mammography Screening in Postmenopausal Women With Hysterectomy. JAMA. 2006;295:1647-1657.

6. Chlebowski RT, et al. Influence of Estrogen Plus Progestin on Breast Cancer and Mammography in Healthy Postmenopausal Women. JAMA. 2003;289:3234-3253.

7. Anderson GL, et al. Effects of Estrogen Plus Progestin on Gynecologic Cancers and Associated Diagnostic Procedures. JAMA. 2003;290:1739-1748.

8. Shumaker SA, et al. Conjugated Equine Estrogens and Incidence of Probable Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment in Postmenopausal Women. JAMA. 2004;291:2947-2958.

WARNINGS

Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.

PRECAUTIONS

Cardiovascular Disorders

An increased risk of stroke and DVT has been reported with estrogen-alone therapy. An increased risk of PE, DVT, stroke and MI has been reported with estrogen plus progestin therapy.

Should any of these occur or be suspected, estrogen with or without progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately.

Risk factors for arterial vascular disease (for example, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) (for example, personal history or family history of VTE, obesity, and systemic lupus erythematosus) should be managed appropriately.

Stroke

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, a statistically significant increased risk of stroke was reported in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (45 versus 33 per 10,000 women-years). The increase in risk was demonstrated in year 1 and persisted. Should a stroke occur or be suspected, estrogen-alone therapy should be discontinued immediately.

Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest no increased risk of stroke for those women receiving CE (0.625 mg)alone versus those receiving placebo (18 versus 21 per 10,000 women-years).¹

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, a statistically significant increased risk of stroke was reported in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 per 10,000 women-years). The increase in risk was demonstrated after the first year and persisted.¹ Should a stroke occur or be suspected, estrogen plus progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately.

Coronary Heart Disease

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, no overall effect on coronary heart disease (CHD) events (defined as nonfatal MI, silent MI, or CHD death) was reported in women receiving estrogen-alone compared to placebo².

Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest a statistically non-significant reduction in CHD events (CE [0.625 mg] alone compared to placebo) in women with less than 10 years since menopause (8 versus 16 per 10,000 women-years).¹

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, there was a statistically non-significant increased risk of CHD events reported in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (41 versus 34 per 10,000 women-years).¹ An increase in relative risk was demonstrated in year 1, and a trend toward decreasing relative risk was reported in years 2 through 5.

In postmenopausal women with documented heart disease (n=2,763, average 66.7 years of age), in a controlled clinical trial of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study [HERS]), treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) demonstrated no cardiovascular benefit. During an average follow-up of 4.1 years, treatment with CE plus MPA did not reduce the overall rate of CHD events in postmenopausal women with established coronary heart disease. There were more CHD events in the CE plus MPA-treated group than in the placebo group in year 1, but not during the subsequent years. Two thousand, three hundred and twenty-one (2,321) women from the original HERS trial agreed to participate in an open label extension of HERS, HERS II. Average follow-up in HERS II was an additional 2.7 years, for a total of 6.8 years overall. Rates of CHD events were comparable among women in the CE plus MPA group and the placebo group in HERS, HERS II, and overall.

Venous Thromboembolism

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, the risk of VTE (DVT and PE) was increased for women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to placebo (30 versus 22 per 10,000 women-years), although only the increased risk of DVT reached statistical significance (23 versus 15 per 10,000 women-years). The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first 2 years³. Should a VTE occur or be suspected, estrogen-alone therapy should be discontinued immediately.

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, a statistically significant 2-fold greater rate of VTE was reported in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (35 versus 17 per 10,000 women-years). Statistically significant increases in risk for both DVT (26 versus 13 per 10,000 women-years) and PE (18 versus 8 per 10,000 women-years) were also demonstrated. The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first year and persisted⁴. Should a VTE occur or be suspected, estrogen plus progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately.

If feasible, estrogens should be discontinued at least 4 to 6 weeks before surgery of the type associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, or during periods of prolonged immobilization.

Malignant Neoplasms

Endometrial Cancer

An increased risk of endometrial cancer has been reported with the use of unopposed estrogen therapy in a woman with a uterus. The reported endometrial cancer risk among unopposed estrogen users is about 2 to 12 times greater than in non-users, and appears dependent on duration of treatment and on estrogen dose. Most studies show no significant increased risk associated with use of estrogens for less than 1 year. The greatest risk appears associated with prolonged use, with increased risk of 15-to 24-fold for 5 to 10 years or more and this risk has been shown to persist for at least 8 to 15 years after estrogen therapy is discontinued.

Clinical surveillance of all women using estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin therapy is important. Adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated, should be undertaken to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding. There is no evidence that the use of natural estrogens results in a different endometrial risk profile than synthetic estrogens of equivalent estrogen dose. Adding a progestin to postmenopausal estrogen therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer.

Breast Cancer

The most important randomized clinical trial providing information about breast cancer in estrogen-alone users is the WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone. In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, after an average follow-up of 7.1 years, daily CE-alone was not associated with an increased risk of invasive breast cancer [relative risk (RR) 0.80]⁵.

The most important randomized clinical trial providing information about breast cancer in estrogen plus progestin users is the WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg). After a mean follow-up of 5.6 years, the estrogen plus progestin substudy reported an increased risk of invasive breast cancer in women who took daily CE plus MPA. In this substudy, prior use of estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin therapy was reported by 26 percent of the women. The relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.24, and the absolute risk was 41 versus 33 cases per 10,000 women-years, for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. Among women who reported prior use of hormone therapy, the relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.86, and the absolute risk was 46 versus 25 cases per 10,000 women-years, for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. Among women who reported no prior use of hormone therapy, the relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.09, and the absolute risk was 40 versus 36 cases per 10,000 women-years for CE plus MPA compared with placebo. In the same substudy, invasive breast cancers were larger, were more likely to be node positive, and were diagnosed at a more advanced stage in the CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) group compared with the placebo group. Metastatic disease was rare, with no apparent difference between the two groups. Other prognostic factors such as histologic subtype, grade and hormone receptor status did not differ between the groups⁶.

Consistent with the WHI clinical trial, observational studies have also reported an increased risk of breast cancer for estrogen plus progestin therapy, and a smaller increased risk for estrogen-alone therapy, after several years of use. The risk increased with duration of use, and appeared to return to baseline over about 5 years after stopping treatment (only the observational studies have substantial data on risk after stopping). Observational studies also suggest that the risk of breast cancer was greater, and became apparent earlier, with estrogen plus progestin therapy as compared to estrogen-alone therapy. However, these studies have not generally found significant variation in the risk of breast cancer among different estrogen plus progestin combinations, doses, or routes of administration.

The use of estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin has been reported to result in an increase in abnormal mammograms requiring further evaluation.

All women should receive yearly breast examinations by a healthcare provider and perform monthly breast self-examinations. In addition, mammography examinations should be scheduled based on patient age, risk factors, and prior mammogram results.

Ovarian Cancer

The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically non-significant increased risk of ovarian cancer. After an average follow-up of 5.6 years, the relative risk for ovarian cancer for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 1.58 [95 percent CI, 0.77–3.24]. The absolute risk for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 4 versus 3 cases per 10,000 women-years.⁷

A meta-analysis of 17 prospective and 35 retrospective epidemiology studies found that women who used hormonal therapy for menopausal symptoms had an increased risk for ovarian cancer. The primary analysis, using case-control comparisons, included 12,110 cancer cases from the 17 prospective studies. The relative risks associated with current use of hormonal therapy was 1.41 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32 to 1.50); there was no difference in the risk estimates by duration of the exposure (less than 5 years [median of 3 years] vs. greater than 5 years [median of 10 years] of use before the cancer diagnosis). The relative risk associated with combined current and recent use (discontinued use within 5 years before cancer diagnosis) was 1.37 (95% CI 1.271.48), and the elevated risk was significant for both estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin products. The exact duration of hormone therapy use associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer, however, is unknown.

Probable Dementia

In the WHIMS estrogen-alone ancillary study of WHI, a population of 2,947 hysterectomized women 65 to 79 years of age was randomized to daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone or placebo.

After an average follow-up of 5.2 years, 28 women in the estrogen-alone group and 19 women in the placebo group were diagnosed with probable dementia. The relative risk of probable dementia for CE-alone versus placebo was 1.49 (95 percent CI, 0.83–2.66). The absolute risk of probable dementia for CE-alone versus placebo was 37 versus 25 cases per 10,000 women-years⁸.

In the WHIMS estrogen plus progestin ancillary study, a population of 4,532 postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age was randomized to daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) or placebo. After an average follow-up of 4 years, 40 women in the CE plus MPA group and 21 women in the placebo group were diagnosed with probable dementia. The relative risk of probable dementia for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 2.05 (95 percent CI, 1.21–3.48). The absolute risk of probable dementia for CE plus MPA versus placebo was 45 versus 22 cases per 10,000 women-years⁸.

When data from the two populations in the WHIMS estrogen-alone and estrogen plus progestin ancillary studies were pooled as planned in the WHIMS protocol, the reported overall relative risk for probable dementia was 1.76 (95 percent CI, 1.19–2.60). Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women⁸.

Gallbladder Disease

A 2-to 4-fold increase in the risk of gallbladder disease requiring surgery in postmenopausal women receiving estrogens has been reported.

Hypercalcemia

Estrogen administration may lead to severe hypercalcemia in women with breast cancer and bone metastases. If hypercalcemia occurs, use of the drug should be stopped and appropriate measures taken to reduce the serum calcium level.

Visual Abnormalities

Retinal vascular thrombosis has been reported in patients receiving estrogens. Discontinue medication pending examination if there is sudden partial or complete loss of vision, or a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine. If examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions, estrogens should be permanently discontinued.

Addition Of A Progestin When A Woman Has Not Had A Hysterectomy

Studies of the addition of a progestin for 10 or more days of a cycle of estrogen administration, or daily with estrogen in a continuous regimen, have reported a lowered incidence of endometrial hyperplasia than would be induced by estrogen treatment alone. Endometrial hyperplasia may be a precursor to endometrial cancer.

There are, however, possible risks that may be associated with the use of progestins with estrogens compared to estrogen-alone regimens. These include an increased risk of breast cancer.

Elevated Blood Pressure

In a small number of case reports, substantial increases in blood pressure have been attributed to idiosyncratic reactions to estrogens. In a large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a generalized effect of estrogens on blood pressure was not seen.

Hypertriglyceridemia

In women with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia, estrogen therapy may be associated with elevations of plasma triglycerides leading to pancreatitis. Consider discontinuation of treatment if pancreatitis occurs.

Hepatic Impairment And/Or Past History Of Cholestatic Jaundice

Estrogens may be poorly metabolized in patients with impaired liver function. For women with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with past estrogen use or with pregnancy, caution should be exercised, and in the case of recurrence, medication should be discontinued.

Hypothyroidism

Estrogen administration leads to increased thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) levels. Women with normal thyroid function can compensate for the increased TBG bymaking more thyroid hormone, thus maintaining free T4 and T3 serum concentrations in the normal range. Women dependent on thyroid hormone replacement therapy who are also receiving estrogens may require increased doses of their thyroid replacement therapy. These women should have their thyroid function monitored to maintain their free thyroid hormone levels in an acceptable range.

Fluid Retention

Estrogens may cause some degree of fluid retention. Women with conditions that might be influenced by this factor, such as a cardiac or renal impairment, warrant careful observation when estrogen-alone is prescribed.

Hypocalcemia

Estrogen therapy should be used with caution in women with hypoparathyroidism as estrogen-induced hypocalcemia may occur.

Exacerbation Of Endometriosis

A few cases of malignant transformation of residual endometrial implants have been reported in women treated post-hysterectomy with estrogen-alone therapy. For women known to have residual endometriosis post-hysterectomy, the addition of progestin should be considered.

Hereditary Angioedema

Exogenous estrogens may exacerbate symptoms of angioedema in women with hereditary angioedema.

Exacerbation Of Other Conditions

Estrogen therapy may cause an exacerbation of asthma, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, migraine, porphyria, systemic lupus erythematosus, and hepatic hemangiomas and should be used with caution in women with these conditions.

Photosensitivity/Photoallergy

The effects of direct sun exposure to Estreva 0.1% application sites have not been evaluated in clinical trials.

Application Of Sunscreen And Topical Solutions

Studies conducted using other approved topical estrogen gel products have shown that sunscreens have the potential for changing the systemic exposure of topically applied estrogen gels.

The effect of sunscreens and other topical lotions on the systemic exposure of Estreva 0.1% has not been evaluated in clinical trials.

Flammability Of Alcohol-Based Gels

Alcohol based gels are flammable. Avoid fire, flame, or smoking until the gel has dried. Occlusion of the area where the topical drug product is applied with clothing or other barriers is not recommended until the gel is completely dried.

Potential For Estradiol Transfer And Effects Of Washing

There is a potential for drug transfer from one individual to the other following physical contact of Estreva 0.1% application sites. In a study to evaluate transferability to males from their female contacts, there was some elevation of estradiol levels over baseline in the male subjects; however, the degree of transferability in this study was inconclusive. Patients are advised to avoid skin contact with other subjects until the gel is completely dried. The site of application should be covered (clothed) after drying.

Washing the application site with soap and water 1 hour after application resulted in a 30 to 38 percent decrease in the mean total 24-hour exposure to estradiol. Therefore, patients should refrain from washing the application site for at least one hour after application.

Laboratory Tests

Serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol levels have not been shown to be useful in the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms.

Drug -Laboratory Test Interactions

Accelerated prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and platelet aggregation time; increased platelet count; increased factors II, VII antigen, VIII antigen, VIII coagulant activity, IX, X, XII, VII-X complex, II-VII-X complex, and beta-thromboglobulin; decreased levels of anti-factor Xa and antithrombin III, decreased antithrombin III activity; increased levels of fibrinogen and fibrinogen activity; increased plasminogen antigen and activity.

Increased thyroid binding globulin (TBG) levels leading to increased circulating total thyroid hormone levels, as measured by protein-bound iodine (PBI),T4 levels (by column or by radioimmunoassay) or T3 levels by radioimmunoassay. T3 resin uptake is decreased, reflecting the elevated TBG. Free T4 and free T3 concentrations are unaltered. Women on thyroid replacement therapy may require higher doses of thyroid hormone.

Other binding proteins may be elevated in serum, for example, corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), leading to increased total circulating corticosteroids and sex steroids, respectively. Free hormone concentrations, such as testosterone and estradiol, may be decreased. Other plasma proteins may be increased (angiotensinogen/renin substrate, alpha-lantitrypsin, ceruloplasmin).

Increased plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and HDL2 cholesterol subfraction concentrations, reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentration, increased triglyceride levels.

Impaired glucose tolerance.

Patient Counseling Information

See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling.

Vaginal Bleeding

Inform postmenopausal women of the importance of reporting vaginal bleeding to their healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Possible Serious Adverse Reactions With Estrogen-Alone Therapy

Inform postmenopausal women of possible serious adverse reactions of estrogen-alone therapy including Cardiovascular Disorders, Malignant Neoplasms, and Probable Dementia.

Possible Less Serious But More Common Adverse Reactions With Estrogen-Alone Therapy

Inform postmenopausal women of possible less serious but common adverse reactions of estrogen-alone therapy such as headaches, breast pain and tenderness, nausea and vomiting.

Instructions For Use

• Estreva 0.1% should be applied once a day, around the same time each day
• Apply Estreva 0.1% to clean, dry, and unbroken (without cuts or scrapes) skin. If you take a bath or shower, be sure to apply your Estreva 0.1% after your skin is dry. The application site should be completely dry before dressing or swimming
• Apply Estreva 0.1% to either your left or right upper thigh. Change between your left and right upper thigh each day to help prevent skin irritation

TO APPLY:

Step 1: Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.

Step 2: Sit in a comfortable position.

Step 3: Cut or tear the Estreva 0.1% packet as shown in Figure A.

Figure A

Step 4: Using your thumb and index finger, squeeze the entire contents of the packet onto the skin of the upper thigh as shown in Figure B.

Figure B

Step 5: Gently spread the gel in a thin layer on your upper thigh over an area of about 5 by 7 inches, or two palm prints as shown in Figure C. It is not necessary to massage or rub in Estreva 0.1%.

Figure C

Step 6: Allow the gel to dry completely before dressing.

Step 7: Dispose of the empty Estreva 0.1% packet in the trash.

Step 8: Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after applying Estreva 0.1% to remove any remaining gel and reduce the chance of transferring Estreva 0.1% to other people.

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

Long-term continuous administration of natural and synthetic estrogens in certain animal species increases the frequency of carcinomas of the breast, uterus, cervix, vagina, testis and liver.

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Estreva 0.1% should not be used during pregnancy. There appears to be little or no increased risk of birth defects in children born to women who have used estrogens and progestins as an oral contraceptive inadvertently during early pregnancy.

Nursing Mothers

Estreva 0.1% should not be used during lactation. Estrogen administration to nursing women has been shown to decrease the quantity and quality of the breast milk. Detectable amounts of estrogens have been identified in the breast milk of women receiving estrogen therapy. Caution should be exercised when Estreva 0.1% is administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric Use

Estreva 0.1% is not indicated in children. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population.

Geriatric Use

There have not been sufficient numbers of geriatric women involved in studies utilizing Estreva 0.1% to determine whether those over 65 years of age differ from younger subjects in their response to Estreva 0.1%.

The Women’s Health Initiative Studies

In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg]-alone versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of stroke in women greater than 65 years of age.

In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] plus MPA [2.5 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of nonfatal stroke and invasive breast cancer in women greater than 65 years of age.

The Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study

In the WHIMS ancillary studies of postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age, there was an increased risk of developing probable dementia in women receiving estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin when compared to placebo.

Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women⁸.

Renal Impairment

The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Estreva 0.1% has not been studied.

Hepatic Impairment

The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Estreva 0.1% has not been studied.

REFERENCES

1. Rossouw JE, et al. Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease by Age and Years Since Menopause. JAMA.2007;297:1465–1477.

2. Hsia J, et al. Conjugated Equine Estrogens and Coronary Heart Disease. Arch Int Med. 2006;166:357–365.

3. Curb JD, et al. Venous Thrombosis and Conjugated Equine Estrogen in Women Without a Uterus.Arch Int Med. 2006;166:772–780.

4. Cushman M, et al. Estrogen Plus Progestin and Risk of Venous Thrombosis. JAMA. 2004;292:1573–1580.

5. Stefanick ML, et al. Effects of Conjugated Equine Estrogens on Breast Cancer and Mammography Screening in Postmenopausal Women With Hysterectomy. JAMA. 2006;295:1647–1657.

6. Chlebowski RT, et al. Influence of Estrogen Plus Progestin on Breast Cancer and Mammography in Healthy Postmenopausal Women. JAMA. 2003;289:3234–3253.

7. Anderson GL, et al. Effects of Estrogen Plus Progestin on Gynecologic Cancers and Associated Diagnostic Procedures. JAMA. 2003;290:1739–1748.

8. Shumaker SA, et al. Conjugated Equine Estrogens and Incidence of Probable Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment in Postmenopausal Women. JAMA. 2004;291:2947–2958.

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