Climara-100

Uses
Climara 100 (Estradiol) patches are indicated for the short term treatment of menopausal (or post menopausal) vasomotor symptoms and mild vaginal atrophy occurring as a result of depleted oestrogen levels. It works by providing hormones transdermally. Women who have an intact uterus will also be treated with a progestogen in order to lessen the possibility of endometrial cancer. These patches have sometimes been used to prevent osteoporosis in female patients considered to be at risk of bone thinning who are unable to take other types of medicine for osteoporosis.

The low oestrogen levels which occur as a result of the menopause can affect the neck, chest and face, causing them to feel warm and uncomfortable. The vagina may also be affected in some patients. To compensate for the reduction in oestrogen, some doctors may recommend the use of estradiol, a female sex hormone said to be the predominant estrogen. This in turn can help treat hot flushes and vaginal atrophy, however treatment is generally continued for the shortest possible period of time. In some cases, these patches have been used to treat premenopausal women whose bodies do not produce satisfactory amounts of oestrogen.

Dosage and Administration
Each individual Climara 100 (Estradiol) oestrogen patch contains 7.6mg of estradiol. This method of administration is referred to as a transdermal delivery system, which means that the medicine is gradually absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. These patches are also available in different strengths, some of which have a lower amount of medicine. Your doctor will advise you which one to use. Patients are sometimes directed to start out with a lower dose. Doctors generally try to lower the dosage or gradually discontinue treatment at 3 to 6 month intervals.

Patients are either told to apply one patch per week, with the old one removed and disposed of after 7 days, with treatment continuing without interruption. As an alternative, some doctors may direct patients to apply a patch every week for a period of 3 weeks, after which a 7 day break is taken, with treatment recommencing after this break. Your doctor will tell you the best part of skin in which to apply it (usually the buttocks or lower part of the abdomen). Ensure that the skin is clean and dry before you apply it.

Side effects
Applying Climara 100 (Estradiol) to the skin could lead to some side effects, such as:

• Loss of hair
• Sore breasts
• Bloated feeling
• Yeast infections of the vagina
• Skin redness where the patch was applied

Notify your doctor if any side effects occur. There are other possible reactions that have not been referenced here. Certain reactions are serious enough to pose a threat to your health, and will require immediate hospital care. Examples include thyroid hormone level changes, blood clots, lumps on the breast, visual disturbances, high blood sugar levels and other potential side effects.

Precautions
These patches must not be applied to the breasts.

Visit your doctor frequently during treatment to discuss whether or not treatment needs to continue.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Climara 100 (Estradiol) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.