Estriol

HRT MEMBERS ONLY

INDICATIONS FOR USE

Estriol is primarily used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms, particularly vaginal atrophy, dryness, and urinary discomfort. It may also play a role in preventing recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in postmenopausal women.

ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION

  • Topical cream or intravaginal suppository.

FORMULATIONS AND PRICING

FormulationPrice
0.05% cream (30/60/90g)$47 / $75 / $113
0.1% cream (30/60/90g)$47 / $75 / $113
0.5% cream (30/60/90g)$47 / $75 / $113
1% cream (30/60/90g)$47 / $75 / $113

COMMON INITIAL DOSING REGIMENS

  • Topical Cream: Typically, 1–2 grams applied daily for 2–3 weeks, then reduced to 1–3 times per week for maintenance.

  • Intravaginal Suppository: Administered daily for 2 weeks, followed by a maintenance dose of 2–3 times per week.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

  • Estriol is a weak estrogen that binds to estrogen receptors to restore estrogenic effects, particularly in urogenital tissues. Unlike other estrogens, estriol exerts more localized effects with minimal systemic absorption, reducing risks associated with systemic estrogen therapy.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

  • Local: Vaginal irritation, itching, or discharge.

  • Endocrine: Breast tenderness or spotting, although less common due to localized use.

  • Rare: Prolonged use may cause systemic estrogenic side effects such as fluid retention, mood changes, or headache.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • Absolute: Known estrogen-dependent malignancies, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, or active thromboembolic disorders.

  • Relative: Use cautiously in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, liver dysfunction, or conditions exacerbated by fluid retention.

MORE INFORMATION

  • FDA Safety Data Sheet not available.