Key takeaways
Vivelle-Dot (estradiol) and Climara (estradiol) are both estrogen replacement medications used to treat menopause symptoms and low estrogen levels, and they help prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) after menopause. Both are transdermal patches, but Vivelle-Dot is applied twice a week, while Climara is only applied once a week. Both are available as a generic, and the Vivelle-Dot generic is called Dotti. Common side effects for both include breast pain and headaches, but some people using Climara also experience stomach pain. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects like blood clots and certain cancers, and they may require additional progestin if you have a uterus. You should apply these patches to your lower stomach or buttocks, avoiding the waistline to prevent them from falling off.
