Estradiol is an estrogen steroid hormone . It deals with the regulation of the woman’s menstrual cycle and the regulation of female sexual characteristics (however, it is produced in lower concentrations also by the male organism).During puberty, it contributes to the maturation of the female reproductive organs (vagina, uterus, tube, ovaries) and stimulates the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics (development of the breasts and of the typical body conformation with deposition of fat on the breast, hips and thighs). In addition, it performs a protective action against osteoporosis.
What is Estradiol used for?
Estradiol is taken by post-menopausal women to control typical symptoms, and to prevent pathologies associated with this condition, such as osteoporosis. Acts as hormone replacement therapy.
How is Estradiol taken?
Estradiol can be administered in the form of tablets for oral use , in the form of a transdermal patch to allow diffusion through the skin, in the form of preparations for injections and in the form of gel for local use.
Side effects of estradiol
There are several recognized side effects due to the use of Estradiol. Among the most frequent we remember:
- weight changes;
- increase in breast size and tension;
- changes in liver function;
- changes in glucose tolerance;
- migraine;
- palpitations;
- general malaise;
- dizziness ;
- depression;
- libido changes;
- increase in the size of the endometrium;
- urinary incontinence;
- cystitis ;
- hypercholesterolemia;
- breathing difficulties;
- rhinitis.
It is recalled that generally the use of the transdermal patch and the gel reduce the adverse effects compared to oral intake.
Contraindications and warnings on the use of Estradiol
It is important to remember that estrogen-based therapies increase the risk of developing breast cancer, endometrial cancer and other conditions such as thromboembolic diseases, coronary artery disease and stroke.
The use of the drug in pregnancy and lactation is contraindicated, although to date epidemiological studies have not revealed any particular harmful effects or that cause mutations in the fetus.
