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Estrogel Coupon - Estrogel 50g of 0.06% gel pump

EstroGel

estradiol gel
Used for Menopause, Atrophic Vaginitis
Used for Menopause, Atrophic Vaginitis

Estradiol gel (EstroGel) is a hormone replacement therapy used to relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Unlike some other estrogen gels, it's also FDA approved to treat vaginal symptoms from menopause, such as vaginal dryness and irritation. It comes as a pump bottle, and the dose is applied to the skin on your entire arm once a day. The gel is available in both brand-name and generic forms. Common side effects include headache, passing gas, and breast pain.

Last reviewed on January 5, 2025
basics-icon

What is Estradiol gel (EstroGel)?

What is Estradiol gel (EstroGel) used for?

How Estradiol gel (EstroGel) works

Estradiol gel (EstroGel) contains man-made estradiol, a type of estrogen that the body naturally makes. During menopause, estrogen levels drop, leading to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Estradiol gel (EstroGel) works by replacing estrogen, which helps relieve these menopausal symptoms.

Are you looking for information on estradiol gel (Divigel) packets or Elestrin (estradiol gel) pump instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsEstrogel
Drug ClassEstrogen replacement
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$749.29(save 77.92%)
GoodRx discount
$165.42
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What are the side effects of Estradiol gel (EstroGel)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Breast pain (11%)
  • Headache (10%)
  • Passing gas (5%)

Other Side Effects

  • Skin rash and itching
  • Nausea
  • Stomach bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Hair loss
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Weight gain

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Heart attack: chest pain, cold sweats, left arm pain, difficulty breathing
  • Stroke: sudden weakness on one side of your body, bad headaches, trouble breathing, or changes in your speech or vision
  • Blood clot: chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fast heart rate, swelling, pain, or redness in the arms or legs
  • Cancer: lumps, pain, swelling, or changes in the breasts; swollen lymph nodes, unusual or heavy vaginal bleeding, bloating, extreme tiredness, stomach-area pain

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Blood clot—pain, swelling, or warmth in the leg, shortness of breath, chest pain
  • Breast tissue changes, new lumps, redness, pain, or discharge from the nipple
  • Gallbladder problems—severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever
  • Increase in blood pressure
  • Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • Stroke—sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, trouble speaking, confusion, trouble walking, loss of balance or coordination, dizziness, severe headache, change in vision
  • Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor
  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause, pelvic pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Estradiol gel (EstroGel)

thumbs-up

Pros

Relieves bothersome menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats

Also FDA approved to treat vaginal symptoms due to menopause

Applied directly to the skin on your entire arm

Only need to use once a day

thumbs-down

Cons

Raises your risk of certain cancers, blood clots, and strokes

Risk of exposing others to estrogen through skin contact

Might also need to take a progestin medication if you have a uterus

Need to wait for the gel to dry completely before bathing, showering, or swimming

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Estradiol gel (EstroGel)

pharmacist
  • Estradiol gel (EstroGel) can transfer to others through skin-to-skin contact with the application site. After applying the gel, let it dry completely and wear clothing over the area. And wash your hands with soap and water immediately after applying the medication. Avoid letting others contact the application area for at least 1 hour.

    • Apply estradiol gel (EstroGel) after your bath or shower, and wait as long as possible before swimming. Washing the area too soon can reduce how much estrogen your body absorbs, which can affect how the medication works.

      • Talk to your prescriber about the best time to use sunscreen or moisturizer with estradiol gel (EstroGel). A study found applying sunscreen 1 hour after the gel reduced estradiol absorption, while applying moisturizer 1 hour after the gel increased estradiol absorption. Absorbing too much of this medication can lead to more side effects.

        • If you have a uterus, your prescriber might recommend taking a progestin medication along with estradiol gel (EstroGel) to lower the risk of uterine (endometrial) cancer. Check with your prescriber to confirm your treatment plan.

          • Using estradiol gel (EstroGel) for a long time can raise the risk of serious health problems, such as breast cancer and heart attacks. That's why it's important to use the lowest dose for the shortest possible duration. Talk with your prescriber regularly to decide if you should continue treatment.

            • Estradiol gel (EstroGel) is flammable, meaning it can easily catch on fire. Avoid fire, flames, or smoking until the application site has dried to protect yourself and others around you.

              • Store estradiol gel (EstroGel) at room temperature and keep track of how many doses you've used. The pump delivers a total of 30 doses (30 pumps) after priming. Throw away the used pump even if there's still gel left in the pump, and start a new one.

                How to use estradiol gel (EstroGel):

                • It's important to read the Instructions for Use before using the medication to make sure you apply the dose correctly.

                  • Prime: To use the pump for the first time, you need to prime it. (1) Remove the cap and the small cover on the tip, then hold the pump over a sink. (2) Press down on the pump 5 times and wash the gel down the sink to prevent accidental contact with others. The pump is now ready to use and doesn’t need to be primed again.

                    • Apply: (1) Pump the gel into the palm of your hand and spread it thinly over your entire arm, inside and outside, from wrist to shoulder. Don’t massage or rub in the gel, and wait about 5 minutes for it to dry completely before putting on clothes. (2) Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after applying the medication.

                      faqs

                      Frequently asked questions about Estradiol gel (EstroGel)

                      Can I use estradiol gel (EstroGel) on my thighs?
                      Use estradiol gel (EstroGel) exactly as directed by your prescriber. Estradiol gel (EstroGel) is FDA approved for use on the arm because that's how it was studied. Applying it on your thighs could lead to irritation and improper absorption. Talk to your prescriber or pharmacist about how to use this medication.
                      How long does it take for estradiol gel (EstroGel) to work?
                      Estradiol gel (EstroGel) usually starts to relieve menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes or night sweats, within about 2 weeks. But some people might need a few months to experience the full benefits. If you don't notice any improvements after a few months, talk to your prescriber.
                      Can estradiol gel (EstroGel) cause weight gain?
                      Yes. Some people reported experiencing weight gain while using estradiol gel (EstroGel). But these changes are usually caused by hormonal shifts during menopause. If you notice weight gain after starting this medication, talk to your gynecologist.
                      Can I use estradiol gel (EstroGel) on my face?
                      It's not recommended to use estradiol gel (EstroGel) on your face. Estradiol gel (EstroGel) is meant to be applied only to the skin on the arm, as this area allows the medication to be absorbed properly. Applying the gel to your face or other areas might cause irritation or prevent the medication from working correctly. Always follow the instructions provided by your prescriber.
                      Does estradiol gel (EstroGel) cause hair loss?
                      Yes. Hair loss is a common side effect of estradiol gel (EstroGel). But menopause itself can also cause hair loss. If you experience hair loss while using this medication, talk to your prescriber.
                      Can you use Vagifem and estradiol gel (EstroGel) together?
                      It depends. Both estradiol gel (EstroGel) and estradiol vaginal insert (Vagifem) are estrogen replacement medications used to treat menopause symptoms. Using both could lead to too much estrogen, which might cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, stomach pain, and tiredness. Speak to your prescriber if you have questions about using these two medications together.
                      How long after applying estradiol gel (EstroGel) can I shower?
                      Apply estradiol gel (EstroGel) after your bath or shower, and wait as long as possible before swimming. Getting the area wet too soon can reduce how much estrogen your body absorbs, which can affect how the medication works.
                      What's the difference between Divigel and EstroGel?
                      Divigel and EstroGel both contain estradiol gel to help relieve menopause symptoms. While they work the same way, they differ in packaging and application areas. Divigel comes in single-use packets and is applied to the upper thigh, whereas EstroGel comes in a pump bottle and is applied to the entire arm, from wrist to shoulder.
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                      What are the risks and warnings for Estradiol gel (EstroGel)?

                      Estradiol gel (EstroGel) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                      risk-warning

                      Risk of blood clot

                      • Risk factors: People ages 50 years and older| High blood pressure | People identified as obese | High cholesterol | Diabetes | History of smoking cigarettes | Recent surgery or bedrest

                        Estrogens like estradiol gel (EstroGel) can raise the risk of serious blood clots. Higher estrogen levels can raise blood proteins that promote clot formation. These clots can form anywhere in the body and might be life-threatening. Get medical attention right away if you have any signs or symptoms of a blood clot:

                        • Brain (e.g., stroke): weakness or numbness in your arms, legs, or face on one side of the body, trouble speaking, blurry vision, dizziness, loss of balance, trouble walking, or confusion

                          • Eyes (e.g., retinal thrombosis): trouble seeing, bulging eye, double vision

                            • Heart (e.g., heart attack): chest pain, sweating, nausea, or dizziness

                              • Lungs (e.g., pulmonary embolism or PE): trouble breathing, chest pain, or cough

                                • Legs (e.g., deep vein thrombosis or DVT): cramps, swelling, pain, or muscle tightness

                                  Your risk of blood clots is higher if you're older, smoke cigarettes, or have certain medical conditions. It's also higher if you're on bedrest after surgery. Your gynecologist might temporarily stop estradiol gel (EstroGel) for 4-6 weeks before surgery. Talk with your gynecologist if you have any questions regarding your risk of blood clots.

                                  risk-warning

                                  Uterine (endometrial) cancer

                                  • Risk factors: Estrogen therapy without additional progestin | Using estrogen therapy for more than 1 year

                                    Estrogens like estradiol gel (EstroGel) can thicken and change the lining of your uterus (endometrium). This can lead to uncontrolled growth, which might cause uterine (endometrial) cancer. To reduce this risk, it's generally recommended to take progestin, another hormone, along with estrogen. Progestin helps slow the growth of the uterine lining. Watch for warning signs of uterine cancer, such as vaginal bleeding that doesn’t stop or keeps coming back. Contact your prescriber right away if you notice any unusual vaginal bleeding.

                                    risk-warning

                                    Breast cancer

                                    • Risk factors: Personal or family history of breast cancer | Long-term use of estrogen and progestin together

                                      There's a higher risk of developing breast cancer when taking estrogen, such as estradiol gel (EstroGel), and progestin medications together. The longer you take this combination, the higher your risk is. That's why it's best to use estradiol gel (EstroGel) only for the shortest amount of time needed. Make sure to check your breasts regularly for changes and get breast scans (mammograms). Let your prescriber know if you notice any unusual changes in breast shape, size, or color.

                                      risk-warning

                                      Dementia

                                      • Risk factors: Age 65 years or older

                                        People using estrogen therapy like estradiol gel (EstroGel) may have a higher risk of dementia, especially if treatment begins after age 65. Early symptoms of dementia include new forgetfulness, confusion, getting lost, or wandering. If you’re concerned about this risk, talk to your prescriber.

                                        risk-warning

                                        Gallbladder and liver problems

                                        • Risk factors: History of or current liver problems

                                          Estradiol gel (EstroGel) can cause problems with your gallbladder, and some people have needed gallbladder surgery after starting this medication. If you experience stomach pain, nausea or vomiting that doesn't go away, fever, or a yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), speak with your prescriber or get medical attention right away.

                                          The estrogen in estradiol gel (EstroGel) is processed by the liver. So if your liver isn't working properly, you might have more side effects from this medication. If you currently have or have had any liver problems, including issues during a past pregnancy, you shouldn't use estradiol gel (EstroGel).

                                          risk-warning

                                          Changes in calcium levels in the blood

                                          • Risk factors: Breast cancer | Cancer that has spread to the bones | Low parathyroid hormone levels

                                            Taking estrogens like estradiol gel (EstroGel) can lead to severely high calcium levels in people with breast cancer that has spread to their bones. High calcium can cause symptoms like thirst, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bone pain, muscle weakness, or confusion. Tell your prescriber if you have any of these symptoms because you might have to stop taking estradiol gel (EstroGel).

                                            Use estradiol gel (EstroGel) carefully if you have low parathyroid hormone levels (hypoparathyroidism), which can lead to low calcium in your body. Let your prescriber know if you have signs of low calcium such as burning or tingling of your fingers, toes, or lips, muscle pain and cramps, or confusion.

                                            risk-warning

                                            Vision problems

                                            Although very rare, some people taking estrogens have experienced vision problems caused by a blood clot in the eyes. If you have sudden partial or complete vision loss, bulging eyes, double vision, or migraines, stop taking estradiol gel (EstroGel) and tell your prescriber right away.

                                            risk-warning

                                            High triglycerides

                                            • Risk factors: High levels of triglycerides

                                              Estrogens can raise the amount of fats in your blood (triglycerides), which can lead to heart problems or pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas. Your prescriber might recommend regular blood tests to watch for this while you're taking estradiol gel (EstroGel). If you experience sudden stomach or back pain, nausea, vomiting, sudden weight loss, or a fast heart rate, contact your prescriber or seek medical care right away.

                                              risk-warning

                                              Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism)

                                              • Risk factors: Low thyroid hormone levels

                                                Estradiol gel (EstroGel) can affect thyroid hormone levels in your blood. If you're taking medications for low thyroid hormone levels, you might need a higher dose of your thyroid replacement therapy. Your prescriber might recommend regular blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels while you're taking this medication.

                                                risk-warning

                                                Fluid Retention

                                                • Risk factors: History of heart or kidney problems

                                                  Estrogen products like estradiol gel (EstroGel) can cause some fluid retention or edema, especially in people with heart conditions, like congestive heart failure, or kidney problems. If you notice unusual swelling in any part of your body or if you suddenly gain weight over a short period of time, let your care team know.

                                                  risk-warning

                                                  Worsening of other medical conditions

                                                  • Risk factors: History of asthma or diabetes | History of lupus | History of seizures or migraines | History endometriosis

                                                    Taking estrogen-containing medications like estradiol gel (EstroGel) can worsen certain medical conditions. These include endometriosis, hereditary angioedema, asthma, diabetes, migraine, and seizures. Before you start estradiol gel (EstroGel) let your healthcare team know about your past medical history so they can talk with you about the risks and benefits of taking this medication.

                                                    risk-warning

                                                    Potential skin-to-skin transfer

                                                    There's a chance that estradiol gel (EstroGel) could transfer to someone else through skin-to-skin contact with the application site. To avoid this, make sure the gel is completely dry before allowing others to touch the area. Once the gel is dry, cover the application site with clothing.

                                                    dosage

                                                    Estradiol gel (EstroGel) dosage forms

                                                    The average cost for 1 pump of 50g of 0.06% of Estradiol gel (EstroGel) is $218.48 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 70.84% off the average retail price of $749.29.
                                                    gel pump
                                                    Gel pump
                                                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                                                    50g of 0.06%1 pump$218.48$218.48

                                                    Typical dosing for Estradiol gel (EstroGel)

                                                    The typical dose is 1.25 grams (one pump) applied to the skin of your entire arm once a day.

                                                    More on Estradiol gel (EstroGel) dosage forms

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                                                    How much does Estradiol gel (EstroGel) cost?

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                                                    contraindications-icon

                                                    Estradiol gel (EstroGel) contraindications

                                                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Estradiol gel (EstroGel) will not be safe for you to take.
                                                    • Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding

                                                    • History of breast cancer

                                                    • History of cancer that depends on estrogen for growth

                                                    • Blood clots or blood clotting conditions

                                                    • History of stroke or heart attack

                                                    • Liver problems

                                                    alternatives

                                                    What are alternatives to Estradiol gel (EstroGel)?

                                                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Estradiol gel (EstroGel). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
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                                                    pump (50g) 0.06% of estradiolEstradiol Coupon - Estradiol 50g of 0.06% gel pump

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                                                    References

                                                    Best studies we found

                                                    ASCEND Therapeutics US, LLC. (2024). Estrogel- estradiol gel, metered [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                                    Furness, S., et al. (2012). Hormone therapy in postmenopausal women and risk of endometrial hyperplasia. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

                                                    Hedrick, R. E., et al. (2009). Transdermal estradiol gel 0.1% for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women. Menopause.

                                                    View All References (2)

                                                    Rehak, M., et al. (2010). Retinal vein thrombosis: Pathogenesis and management. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis.

                                                    Rosendaal, F. R., et al. (2002). Female hormones and thrombosis. Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology.

                                                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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