Key takeaways
Premarin (conjugated estrogens) and Vivelle-Dot (estradiol patch) are both estrogen replacement medications used to treat menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness, to treat low estrogen levels, and to prevent osteoporosis after menopause. However, they differ in several ways. Premarin is an oral tablet also used for certain advanced stages of breast and prostate cancers and is taken daily or in cycles, depending on the condition. Vivelle-Dot is a patch applied to the lower stomach or buttocks twice a week. Premarin only comes in a branded version, but Vivelle-Dot is available as a generic called Dotti. Common side effects of Premarin include headache, stomach pain, and nausea, while Vivelle-Dot commonly causes headaches, breast tenderness, and sinus swelling. Both medications can increase the risk of blood clots, strokes, and certain cancers, and may require the addition of progestin if you have a uterus.
