Description
Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg)
Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) is a topical estrogen therapy designed to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Its primary role is to restore the estrogen levels in the vaginal area, thus combating dryness, itching, and burning sensations that often accompany menopause. Regular use, as prescribed by your doctor, ensures optimal relief from these discomforts, improving the overall quality of life. This cream is particularly useful when hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is necessary. Although you might notice initial irritation or itching, these side effects usually subside with consistent use.
Uses Of ‘Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg)’
- Treatment of menopausal symptoms
- Treatment of vaginal dryness
- Treatment of vaginal burning
- Treatment of vaginal itching
- Treatment of painful intercourse
Treatment of menopausal symptoms. Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) restores estrogen levels, alleviating various discomforts such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings commonly associated with menopause.
Treatment of vaginal dryness. This cream effectively combats vaginal dryness by replenishing estrogen in the vaginal tissues, making daily activities and sexual intercourse more comfortable.
Treatment of vaginal burning. Burning sensations in the vaginal area due to low estrogen levels are eased with the application of Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg), providing much-needed relief.
Treatment of vaginal itching. By restoring the natural balance of estrogen, this cream helps in reducing annoying and persistent vaginal itching.
Treatment of painful intercourse. Regular use of Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) can make sexual intercourse less painful by treating the underlying dryness and thinning of vaginal tissues.
Safety & Precautions
- Inform your doctor about any history of blood clots.
- Regular check-ups are essential to evaluate the treatment’s benefits.
- Not usually recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding; consult your doctor.
- Report any unexplained vaginal bleeding immediately.
- Avoid if you have unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- Avoid if you have had a blood clot in your legs or lungs.
- Discontinue and consult your doctor if you experience severe side effects.
- This medicine is for external use only; do not ingest.
- Do not share this medication with others.
- Read the label and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Side Effects
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them.
- Vaginal irritation
- Vaginal itching
- Abdominal pain
- Genital rash
- Headache
- Vaginal thrush (candidiasis)
- Vaginal bleeding
- Localized swelling
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in weight
- Changes in mood
- Skin reactions
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
FAQ
1. Can Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests the drug might pass into breastmilk and potentially harm the baby. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice and thorough risk assessment before using this medication during these periods.
2. How should I store Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg)?
Store Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) below 25°C and keep it out of the reach of children. Make sure to keep the tube tightly closed after each use and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its efficacy and longevity.
3. Can I use Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) if I have a history of blood clots?
If you have a history of blood clots in your legs or lungs, it is crucial to inform your doctor before starting Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg). Your doctor will evaluate your medical history and determine if this treatment is safe for you or consider alternative options.
4. What should I do if I experience unexplained vaginal bleeding while using Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg)?
Unexplained vaginal bleeding should be reported to your doctor immediately. It may necessitate discontinuing the treatment and further medical investigation to determine the cause of the bleeding and decide whether to continue or switch therapies.
5. How long will it take to see improvements in menopausal symptoms?
It may take a few weeks of consistent use before noticing significant improvements in menopausal symptoms with Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg). Continue using the cream as prescribed by your doctor to achieve the full benefits, even if you think it’s not working initially.
6. Are there any interactions between Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) and other medications?
Evalon Cream (Estriol 1mg) is not known to interact with other medications. However, it is always best to inform your doctor about any other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation and avoid any potential interactions.
Additional Information
How Your Body Makes Estriol
During pregnancy, estriol is made through a fascinating multi-step process involving both the fetus and the placenta. The key steps include:
- The developing baby’s adrenal glands produce a hormone called dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS).
- The baby’s liver converts DHEAS to another chemical known as 16a-hydroxy-DHEAS.
- This chemical travels to the placenta, where it is converted into estriol.
- Estriol then enters the pregnant person’s bloodstream, leading to rising levels throughout pregnancy.
The Role of the Placenta in Estriol Production
The placenta is a remarkable organ that only forms during pregnancy. Some of its vital functions include:
- Supplying nutrients, hormones, and oxygen to the fetus.
- Attaching to the uterine wall and connecting to the baby via the umbilical cord.
- Helping to remove waste products from the fetus’s blood.
The Importance of Estriol During Pregnancy
Estriol is essential for several critical aspects of pregnancy, such as:
- Promoting the growth of the uterus as the fetus develops.
- Enhancing the body’s sensitivity to other pregnancy hormones.
- Preparing the body for labor, delivery, and breastfeeding.
Estriol Levels and Their Implications During Pregnancy
Fluctuations in estriol levels can indicate various conditions:
- Low Estriol Levels: May signal a problem with the placenta or the baby’s health, such as Down syndrome.
- Sudden Increase of Estriol: Before the 37th week could indicate a risk of premature labor.
- Healthcare providers monitor estriol levels to guide labor induction methods if necessary.
Methods of Measuring Estriol Levels
There are several methods to measure estriol levels during pregnancy:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Blood Test | A simple blood draw to measure estriol levels. |
| 24-Hour Urine Sample | Collecting urine over 24 hours for a more accurate estriol level measurement. |
| At-Home Saliva Test | Less reliable and typically not recommended during pregnancy. |
Timing for Estriol Level Testing
Healthcare providers typically measure estriol levels between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, during the second trimester. This test is part of a broader screening called the quad marker or quad screen test.
The quad marker test identifies risk factors for birth defects by measuring:
- Estriol
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
- Inhibin-A
The Role of Estriol in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone therapy using estriol can offer relief from menopausal symptoms, often using laboratory-made versions of the hormone. Specific benefits include:
- Ease in hot flashes and night sweats.
- Reduced risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Enhanced bone strength to prevent osteoporosis.
- Alleviation of vaginal atrophy and dryness.
- Potential improvement in insomnia and other sleep disturbances.
Potential Side Effects of Estriol in HRT
While estriol is generally considered less potent and therefore safer, it can still have side effects and potential risks, including increased occurrences of:
- Abnormal menstruation.
- Bloated stomach.
- Breast pain (mastalgia).
- Darkening of the skin.
- Hair loss.
- Headaches.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).
- Vaginal itching or yeast infections.
- Weight gain.
Comparing Estriol and Estradiol
Estriol is often compared with estradiol, another commonly used estrogen in hormone therapy. Here is a comparative table:
| Characteristic | Estriol | Estradiol |
|---|---|---|
| Potency | Less potent | More potent |
| Risk of Side Effects | Lower | Higher |
| FDA Approval for HRT | Not approved | Approved |
Other Potential Benefits of Estriol
Ongoing research is investigating additional benefits of lab-made estriol, such as:
- Improving cognitive function.
- Relieving menstrual migraines.
- Smoothing wrinkles.
- Treating nervous system disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Alleviating postpartum depression.
Citations
- Cleveland Clinic, “Estriol”. Home/Health Library
In summary, estriol plays a vital role in pregnancy and can also offer numerous benefits when used in hormone replacement therapy. While generally considered safer and less potent than estradiol, awareness of its risks and side effects is essential for anyone considering its use for therapy.
