Key takeaways
Medroxyprogesterone (Provera) and estradiol (Estrace) are both prescription medications used for different purposes related to hormone therapy. Medroxyprogesterone is a progestin that helps regulate menstrual cycles and protects the uterus from damage in postmenopausal women taking estrogen replacement therapy. It is taken orally and is not a form of birth control. Estradiol, on the other hand, is an estrogen replacement used to treat vaginal symptoms of menopause, such as dryness and itching. It is a cream that is applied into the vagina. While medroxyprogesterone can cause side effects like spotting and breast tenderness, estradiol may cause vaginal irritation and an increased risk of yeast infections. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects, including blood clots and certain cancers, especially when used with other hormone therapies. Medroxyprogesterone is taken daily for specific days of the month, whereas estradiol is initially used daily and then reduced to a few times a week.
