Description
About Estradiol 2 mg (Estradiol Valerate)
Estradiol 2 mg is a prescription generic tablet containing 2 mg of estradiol valerate, made by HAB Pharmaceuticals & Research Ltd, used as estrogen replacement for women with menopausal symptoms and estrogen deficiency. It provides the same daily dose as branded 2 mg tablets such as Progynova and Evadiol, but it is sold only in large multi-strip packs intended for people on established, long-term treatment.
How does estradiol valerate work?
After absorption the valerate ester is cleaved, freeing estradiol, chemically the same hormone the ovaries release. As ovarian output falls at menopause, blood vessels in the skin dilate unpredictably, vaginal and urinary tissues thin and bones lose density more quickly. Topping up estradiol steadies these systems, which is why hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal discomfort ease within weeks of starting.
Who uses this product?
This tablet suits women already established on 2 mg of estradiol valerate a day who have reviewed the treatment with their doctor and plan to continue. It is not the place to start HRT: new users usually begin on a lower dose such as Progynova 1 mg and step up only if needed. Estradiol valerate does not prevent pregnancy.
How to take Estradiol 2 mg
Take one tablet a day by mouth with a drink of water, keeping to a regular time. Women with an intact uterus must also take a progestin (progestogen), either for 12 to 14 days of every month or every day, as prescribed. This protects the uterine lining, so never stop the progestin while continuing the estrogen. If you miss a tablet, take it the same day; if a whole day has passed, skip it and resume the next morning.
Bulk packs and long-term use
At one tablet daily, the 280-tablet pack lasts about 40 weeks and the 1,120-tablet pack more than three years. Before ordering a large quantity, keep in mind:
- HRT should be reviewed at least once a year, and your dose may change or treatment may stop.
- Check the expiry date on every strip and use the oldest strips first.
- Keep your prescription current, and tell any new doctor that you take estradiol valerate.
- Do not share tablets; the right regimen depends on whether you have a uterus and on your personal risks.
Tablets or patches?
Estrogen absorbed through the skin from a patch or gel avoids the first pass through the liver, and observational studies suggest it carries a lower risk of blood clots than tablets. If you have risk factors such as obesity, migraine with aura or a family history of clots, ask your doctor whether a transdermal form would suit you better.
Safety warnings
Boxed warnings for estrogens state that estrogen alone increases endometrial cancer risk when the uterus is intact, that oral estrogen therapy has been associated with stroke and deep vein thrombosis, and that estrogen plus progestin was linked to more heart attacks, pulmonary emboli, invasive breast cancer and, in women over 65, probable dementia. Keep up with mammograms, pelvic checks when advised, and blood pressure monitoring.
Who should not take it?
Do not use it if you are pregnant, or have abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been investigated, a history of breast cancer or estrogen-dependent cancer, a previous venous or arterial clot, liver disease, porphyria or a known thrombophilia.
What are the side effects?
Breast tenderness, bloating, nausea, headache, leg cramps and irregular bleeding can occur, mostly early in treatment. Call 911 for crushing chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, a hot swollen leg, facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden loss of vision, and see your doctor promptly about any breast lump or bleeding after menopause.
Interactions
Rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital and St. John’s wort reduce estradiol levels; azole antifungals and macrolide antibiotics may increase them. Estrogens also change lamotrigine levels and thyroid hormone requirements.
Pack sizes and storage
Supplied in strips of 28 tablets, in packs of 280, 560, 840 or 1,120 tablets, from $100. Store below 77°F (25°C), dry and out of sunlight.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as Evadiol or Progynova 2 mg?
The active ingredient and strength match Evadiol 2 mg and Progynova 2 mg, which come in smaller packs.
Is a higher strength available?
Estradiol 4 mg exists for specialist-directed regimens only and is not a menopause dose.
Where can I see related products?
Browse the More Product category.
General information only. Estradiol 2 mg is a prescription medicine; keep your annual HRT review even if you have plenty of tablets at home.