estradiol

There's a higher risk of endometrial cancer, or cancer of the uterine lining, in people who use estrogen products alone, like Menostar (estradiol). The chances are higher in people who use Menostar (estradiol) for a long time. If you still have your uterus, you might also need to take another hormone called a progestin medication for 14 days every 6 to 12 months along with the patch to lower your risk. Progestin balances out estrogen's effects by slowing the growth of your uterine lining. Your healthcare provider might also test yearly samples of tissue from your body to make sure you don't have cancer. If you have abnormal vaginal bleeding that doesn't go away or keeps coming back, let your provider know because this can be a warning sign of uterine (endometrial) cancer.

There's a higher risk of developing breast cancer in people using Menostar (estradiol) both alone and with progestin, especially when taking the medications long term. Lower your risk by working with your healthcare provider to use Menostar (estradiol) over the shortest period of time. To help with early detection and to make sure there aren't any abnormal changes in your breasts, you can do monthly breast self-checks at home and yearly breast exams with your healthcare provider. Call your healthcare provider if you notice any abnormal changes or feel lumps, pain, or swelling in your breasts.

There's a higher risk for stroke, blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism), and blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) in postmenopausal females who use Menostar (estradiol) alone or with progestin. Resting for long periods of time with no walking or activity can also raise the risk of blood clots. You might also have to stop taking Menostar (estradiol) at least 4 to 6 weeks before certain surgeries that can put you at a higher risk for blood clots. Ask your healthcare provider for guidance if you have an upcoming surgery. Seek emergency help right away if you have any signs of a blood clot in the legs (cramps, swelling, pain, or muscle tightness) and lungs (trouble breathing, chest pain, or cough). If you have any signs of a stroke, such as weakness or numbness of the arms, legs, or face on one side of the body, slurred speech, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, loss of balance, trouble walking, or confusion, get emergency help right away.

Menostar (estradiol) shouldn't be used alone or in combination with progestin to lower the chances of heart disease. Chances of having a heart attack are higher in postmenopausal females who use Menostar (estradiol) alone or with progestin. If you have any signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain, chest tightness, trouble breathing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, or a fast heartbeat, get emergency help right away.

Menostar (estradiol) shouldn't be used to lower the risk of dementia. The chances of developing dementia are higher in people over the age of 65 who use Menostar (estradiol) alone or with progestin. If you or your loved one notices that you're becoming forgetful, confused, anxious, or are having a hard time making decisions or solving problems, let your healthcare provider know.

There's a higher risk of gallbladder problems in postmenopausal females using Menostar (estradiol), with some requiring surgery. Your body also mainly breaks down or metabolizes Menostar (estradiol) in the liver. For people with a history of liver problems (such as cholestatic jaundice), that have occurred with past estrogen use or during pregnancy, Menostar (estradiol) should be used carefully.

Using Menostar (estradiol) can lead to severely high calcium in people with breast cancer and in those whose cancer has spread to their bones. If your calcium is high, you might feel thirsty, have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bone pain, muscle weakness, or confusion. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms because you might have to stop using Menostar (estradiol).

A blood clot that blocks part of your eye, known as retinal vascular thrombosis, can develop in people using estrogen products, like Menostar (estradiol). If you suddenly can't see out of one or both eyes or if you have bulging eyes, double vision, or migraines, stop using Menostar (estradiol) and call your healthcare provider.

Menostar (estradiol) can raise triglyceride levels in your blood, which can lead to serious conditions like inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). If you have a history of high triglycerides, which is a type of body fat that mostly comes from foods, try to make some dietary changes, like limiting salt and sugar, avoiding alcohol, and eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, beans, and nuts. For more guidance on how to reduce your triglyceride levels, ask your healthcare provider.

Menostar (estradiol) can affect thyroid hormone levels in your blood. If you take medications for low thyroid hormone levels, you might require higher doses of thyroid replacement therapy. Your healthcare provider might have you perform regular blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels.

Using estrogen products, like Menostar (estradiol), might cause some fluid retention, or edema, and the chances are higher in people who have heart conditions, like congestive heart failure, or kidney damage. 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 healthcare provider know.