Glossary · Treatments

Estradiol gel

Also called: Estrogel, Divigel, Elestrin.

Definition: Estradiol gel is a transdermal estradiol formulation applied daily to the skin (arm or thigh). Like patches, it bypasses first-pass hepatic metabolism. It allows finer dose adjustments than patches and may be a better option for women with skin sensitivity to patch adhesives.

Detailed definition

Transdermal estradiol gels include Estrogel (1.25 g per pump), Divigel (single-use foil packets at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25 mg estradiol), and Elestrin (0.87 g per metered pump). Gel is applied daily to clean, dry skin of the upper arm, thigh, or shoulder, and absorbed within minutes. It must dry before clothing or skin contact with another person to avoid transfer. Pharmacokinetics are comparable to patches once steady state is reached. Dose flexibility is greater than with patches because partial pump or packet use is feasible. As with all transdermal estradiol, gels avoid the first-pass hepatic effects of oral estrogen and are paired with progesterone for women with a uterus.

Why it matters in menopause

Estradiol gel is a strong option for women who develop skin reactions to patch adhesives, who want finer dose control, or who simply prefer a once-daily liquid product. It performs equivalently to patches when used consistently.

Sources

External references: Wikipedia.

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