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Estring |
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What is Estring and why is it prescribed? Estring is an estrogen replacement system for relief of the vaginal problems that often occur after menopause, including vaginal dryness, burning, and itching, and difficult or painful intercourse. Estring is also prescribed for postmenopausal urinary problems such as difficulty urinating or urinary urgency. Because estrogen replacement therapy is not advisable if you are in any danger of developing cancer, your doctor should take a complete medical and family history, and do a complete physical exam, before prescribing Estring. As a general rule, you should have an examination at least once a year while using Estring. How should you take Estring? Follow your doctors directions for taking Estring. Each Estring is left in place for 3 months. Press the Estring into an oval and insert it as deeply as possible into the upper third of the vagina. The exact position is unimportant as long as you don't feel the ring. If the ring causes discomfort, it is probably not far enough inside. If the ring slips down into the lower part of the vagina, push it back up with your finger. If it falls out, rinse it in warm water and reinsert it. When replacing the ring, simply hook a finger through it and pull it out. If the ring is not replaced after 90 days, the dose of estrogen will gradually decline and your symptoms will return. Store Estring at room temperature. Are there any Estring side effects? Estring side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Estring side effects may include abdominal pain, arthritis, back pain, flu-like symptoms, headaches, insomnia, joint pain, nausea, sinus inflammation, upper respiratory tract infections, vaginal discharge, vaginal discomfort or pain, vaginal inflammation or bleeding, and yeast infection. Less common Estring side effects may include abnormal bleeding from the uterus, allergic reaction, bone pain, breast pain, bronchitis, chest pain, diarrhea, fainting, family stress, gas, genital itching or eruptions, hemorrhoids, hot flashes, inability to hold urine, indigestion, middle ear infection, migraine, painful urination, skin inflammation, sore throat, stomach inflammation, swelling of legs, toothache, and urinary tract infection. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Estring? If Estring is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. No interactions have been reported, but Estring should be removed during treatment with other vaginally administered drugs. Are there any special warnings about Estring? Estrogen replacement therapy is associated with a slight increase in the chances of heart disease, high blood pressure, blood clots, gallbladder disease, certain forms of cancer, and excessive calcium levels. Estrogen is also suspected of increasing the risk of breast cancer, although this remains controversial. Because of these possibilities, get in touch with your doctor right away if you develop any of the following: Abdominal pain, tenderness, or swelling, Abnormal bleeding from the vagina, Breast lumps, Coughing up blood, Difficulty with speech, Dizziness or faintness, Pains in your chest or calves, Severe headache or vomiting, Sudden shortness of breath, Vision changes, Weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, or Yellowing of skin or eyes. Any vaginal infection should be cleared up before you begin Estring therapy. If an infection develops after you begin, you'll need to remove the ring during treatment. If you have a liver problem, Estring should be used with caution. Make sure your doctor is aware of the situation. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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