Estrace vs Estradiol: Which is better for HRT
HRT, or Hormone Replacement Therapy, involves the use of hormones to replace or supplement them if the body is not producing adequately.
HRT is commonly used to alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly in women experiencing menopause.
It can be administered differently as oral tablets, patches, gels, creams, vaginal rings, or injections.
Estrace and Estradiol are medications available for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in women.
In this article, we will understand the uses and the differences.
Quick review: Estrace vs Estradiol
Here is a quick comparison of the two medicines.
| Basis | Estrace | Estradiol |
|---|---|---|
| FDA-approved Uses | Treatment of vulvar and vaginal atrophy | Moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with the menopause Hypoestrogenism due to Hypogonadism |
| FDA status in the year | 2005 | 2004 |
| Active ingredient | Estradiol | Estradiol |
| Severe side effects | Severe Hypercalcemia in Breast cancer patients and Bone Metastases | Severe Hypercalcemia in patients with Breast cancer and Bone Metastases |
| Manufacturer | Allergan Pharmaceuticals International Limited | – |
| Avg. Cost | $583.49 for 100 tablets Unit price: 5.83 (approx) | $15.73 for 30 tabletsUnit price: $0.52 (approx) |
| Others | Brand | Generic |
What is Estrace
Estrace is commonly prescribed for HRT in women who experience menopausal symptoms or have Estrogen deficiency.
It is a brand name for a specific medication that contains the active ingredient Estradiol.
Estradiol is a form of Estrogen hormone naturally produced in the ovaries.
It is used to ease symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, and mood changes associated with menopause and prevent osteoporosis.
It is available in various formulations, including tablets, creams, and vaginal rings.
What is Estradiol
Estradiol is the generic name for the naturally occurring Estrogen hormone (E2).
The hormone helps regulate the menstrual cycle, promotes bone health, maintains vaginal health, and affects mood and cognition.
It is available in different formulations, including tablets, patches, gels, and injections.
Like Estrace, Estradiol is also used to ease menopausal symptoms and prevent Osteoporosis.
Effectiveness
Research published in the National Library of Medicine on the effectiveness of Estradiol on menopausal symptoms claims that transdermal Estrogen or Estradiol has more absorption than oral Estrogen in HRT.
Since both of them are Estradiols, their effectiveness remains the same.
The difference, however, lies in other factors, such as side effects, price, interactions, and individual preferences.
Side effects of Estrace and Estradiol
The side effects of both Estrace and Estradiol can vary from person to person.
However, there are some commonly reported side effects associated with these medications, which are as follows:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Headaches
- Mood changes or mood swings
- Weight changes
- Fluid retention
- Vaginal discharge or irritation
- Changes in sexual desire or performance
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
- High Blood Pressure
Estradiol increases the risk of breast, uterus, or ovarian cancer. It is essential to talk with your doctor about this risk.
It also lowers the hormone needed for milk production in the breast and leads to slow milk production.
Take immediate action by visiting a healthcare professional if you observe any of the above-mentioned side effects in the treatment.
Consulting a healthcare professional to get personalized advice and solutions is always recommended.
Usage
The recommended dose for both Estrace and Estradiol is 1 mg daily.
Following the doctorâs instructions is essential when taking Estrace or Estradiol.
It is crucial to take the medication according to the prescription to maintain a balanced level in the bloodstream.
Do not convert the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting a doctor.
Drugs Interactions
The interactions between Estrace and Estradiol are the same because of the common active ingredient.
There are a total of 323 drug interactions which include
- Eight major drug interactions
- 296 moderate drug interactions
- 19 minor drug interactions
Consult your doctor to know about these interactions in detail.
Takeaway
In conclusion, both Estrace and Estradiol are used in HRT for menopausal symptoms.
Both medications contain the same active component and are equally effective.
But, when deciding between Estrace and Estradiol, factors such as price, accessibility, and individual preferences should be considered.
It is important to remember that these medicines can have side effects, and individuals may react differently to these drugs.
If any side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention.
Consult a healthcare professional before self-medicating, as they can provide appropriate guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Estrace and Estradiol the same?
Yes, Estrace and Estradiol are essentially the same. Estrace is a brand name for a medication that contains Estradiol as its active ingredient. Estradiol is the generic name for the hormone medication. So, both terms refer to the same substance.
Can coming off Estrace and Estradiol cause diarrhea?
Yes, coming off Estrace and Estradiol can cause diarrhea, especially if done abruptly or without proper medical guidance It can potentially cause gastrointestinal issues. Hormone fluctuations can affect the digestive system, and sudden changes in hormone levels can lead to these disturbances.
What works better, Estrace or Estradiol tablets?
It is vital to note that they both contain the same active ingredient, Estradiol. The effectiveness of the medicine depends on the prescribed dosage, the individual’s specific needs, and how well their body responds to the treatment.
Is Estrace generic for Estradiol?
Estradiol is the generic name for a hormone medication. It is the active ingredient that is present in various brand-name products such as Estrace. So, while Estrace contains the hormone Estradiol, it is important to remember that Estrace specifically refers to a particular brand of Estradiol medication.
Can Estrace interact with other medications?
Yes, Estrace can interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all the supplements, medicines, and other health products you have in the regime to avoid drug interactions. Your healthcare provider can determine if any adjustments or precautions are necessary.
