Key takeaways
Medroxyprogesterone (Provera) and estradiol gel (Elestrin) are both hormone therapy medications, but they belong to different drug classes and have different uses. Medroxyprogesterone is a progestin used to regulate menstrual cycles and protect the uterus in postmenopausal women taking estrogen. Estradiol gel, on the other hand, is an estrogen replacement therapy used to relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Medroxyprogesterone is taken orally, while estradiol gel is applied topically to the skin on the upper arm. Medroxyprogesterone is available as a lower-cost generic, whereas estradiol gel is only available as the brand-name Elestrin. Common side effects of medroxyprogesterone include spotting, breast tenderness, and nausea, while estradiol gel can cause breast tenderness, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and upper respiratory infections. Both medications carry risks of blood clots and certain cancers, especially when used together or with other hormone therapy.
