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Compare Estrace vs. Divigel

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Estrace (estradiol) and Divigel (estradiol) gel are both estrogen replacement therapies, but they are used differently and treat different symptoms of menopause. Estrace is a vaginal cream applied directly inside the vagina to relieve vaginal symptoms like itching, dryness, and burning. In contrast, Divigel is a topical gel applied to the skin, typically on the upper thigh or arm, to treat hot flashes and night sweats. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Estrace is used every day initially then reduced to a few times a week based on how well it controls vaginal symptoms, whereas Divigel is always applied once daily. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects, such as blood clots, strokes, and certain cancers. Divigel carries the unique risk of transferring estrogen to others through skin contact, whereas Estrace does not. Additionally, if you have a uterus, you might need to take a progestin-based medication with either medication to lower the risk of uterine cancer.

  • Estradiol (Estrace) vaginal cream
    Estradiol gel (Divigel)
  • Estradiol (Estrace) vaginal cream
    Estradiol gel (Divigel)

  • Summary of Estrace vs. Divigel

    Summary for Estrogen replacement
    Prescription only

    Estradiol (Estrace) vaginal cream is used to lessen certain symptoms related to menopause, such as vaginal itching and dryness. It's a hormone replacement therapy that's made of estradiol, a form of estrogen. Estradiol (Estrace) vaginal cream is applied vaginally with an applicator. Typically, your gynecologist or healthcare professional (HCP) will prescribe it daily for a few weeks, and then lower the dose to a few times a week after that. Some side effects of estradiol (Estrace) vaginal cream include vaginal burning and irritation.

    Summary for Estrogen replacement
    Prescription only

    Estradiol gel (Divigel) is a hormone replacement therapy used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats. It comes as single-use packets, and the dose is applied to the skin on your upper thigh once a day. The gel is available as both a brand-name and a generic medication. Common side effects include vaginal yeast infections, breast tenderness, and abnormal vaginal bleeding.

  • Indications of Estrace vs. Divigel

    Indications for
    •Treatment of vaginal itching, dryness, and burning due to menopause
    Indications for
    •Hot flashes and night sweats due to menopause

  • Pros and Cons of Estrace vs. Divigel

    Pros and Const for Estrogen replacement
    Pros
    •Only need to use it 1 to 3 times per week after your symptoms improve
    •Applied directly to the vagina where symptoms are occurring
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Might be challenging and uncomfortable to use
    •Raises your risk for certain cancers, blood clots, and strokes
    •Some people might need to take it with another hormone called progestin
    Pros and Const for Estrogen replacement
    Pros
    •Relieves bothersome menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats
    •Applied directly to the skin on the thighs
    •Only need to use once a day
    •Available in multiple strengths to customize your dose
    Cons
    •Raises your risk of certain cancers, blood clots, and strokes
    •Risk of exposing others to estrogen through skin contact
    •Might also need to take a progestin medication if you have a uterus
    •Need to wait for the gel to dry completely before bathing, showering, or swimming

  • Common Side Effects of Estrace vs. Divigel

    Common Side Effects for
    •Application site burning and irritation
    •Breast pain or tenderness
    •Headache
    •Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
    •Nausea or vomiting
    •Bloating
    •Hair loss
    •Vaginal yeast infection
    Common Side Effects for
    •Abnormal vaginal bleeding (4-10%)
    •Breast tenderness (3-9%)
    •Common cold symptoms (4-6%)
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (2-6%)
    •Vaginal yeast infection (1-6%)

  • Warnings of Estrace vs. Divigel

    Common Side Effects for
    •Uterine (endometrial) cancer
    •Breast cancer
    •Blood clots and strokes
    •Heart disease and heart attacks
    •Dementia
    •Gallbladder and liver problems
    •Changes in calcium levels in the blood
    •Vision problems
    •High triglycerides
    •Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism)
    •Fluid retention (edema)
    •Worsening of other health conditions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of blood clot
    •Uterine (endometrial) cancer
    •Breast cancer
    •Dementia
    •Gallbladder and liver problems
    •Changes in calcium levels in the blood
    •Vision problems
    •High triglycerides
    •Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism)
    •Fluid Retention
    •Worsening of other medical conditions
    •Potential skin-to-skin transfer

  • Prices with our coupons for Estrace vs. Divigel

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