Key takeaways
Estradiol gel (Divigel) and Prempro (conjugated estrogens / medroxyprogesterone) are both medications used to treat menopausal symptoms , such as hot flashes and night sweats. However, they belong to different medication classes and have distinct characteristics. Divigel is an estrogen replacement therapy applied topically to the skin of the thigh every day, while Prempro is an oral tablet that contains a combination of estrogen and progestin. Divigel is available in both brand-name and generic forms, whereas Prempro is only available as a brand-name medication. Common side effects of Divigel include vaginal yeast infections and breast tenderness, while Prempro may cause breast pain and headaches. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects like blood clots and certain cancers, but Prempro also includes a progestin to help protect the uterus, while a separate progestin medication is typically required when using Divigel.
