Elestrin: Everything You Need to Know As women age, they often experience a decline in estrogen levels which can lead to several uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. To combat these symptoms, doctors often prescribe hormone therapy medications like Elestrin. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about Elestrin, including its uses, dosage, demographics, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses: Elestrin is a topical gel containing estradiol, a form of estrogen hormone. It is used to treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and itching. Dosage: Elestrin is a topical gel that is applied once daily. The dosage varies depending on the individual's needs. The usual starting dose is one pump of the gel applied to the arm, shoulder, or thigh once daily. Demographics: Elestrin is typically prescribed to women who are experiencing menopausal symptoms. It is not recommended for use in men or children. Side Effects: Like all medications, Elestrin may cause side effects. The most common side effects experienced by Elestrin users include skin irritation, acne, breast tenderness, headache, and nausea. In rare cases, Elestrin may increase the risk of serious health problems such as blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer. Women who have a history of these health problems should not use Elestrin. Interactions: Elestrin may interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your doctor if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements. Some medications that may interact with Elestrin include phenobarbital, rifampin, and St. John's Wort. Generic Options: There are several generic options for Elestrin, including estradiol gel and estradiol patches. These medications contain the same active ingredient as Elestrin and are typically less expensive. In Conclusion: Elestrin is a topical gel used to treat menopausal symptoms. It is typically prescribed to women who are experiencing hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and itching. Like all medications, Elestrin may cause side effects, interact with other medications, and have generic options available. If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, talk to your doctor about whether Elestrin is right for you.