Esterified Estrogens (Oral)

Esterified estrogens are used to help restore the hormonal balance of women who suffer from low estrogen, such as those going through menopause. The woman must take estrogen orally once a day in order to replace the estrogen her body has lost through menopause, aging or other conditions.

Side Effects/Warnings

Taking estrogen pills can increase the risk of stroke. Women who smoke heavily are at greater risk of stroke than those who do not smoke; all women over the age of 35 are at greater risk for stroke if they take estrogen.

Women who are on this medication are also more likely to develop certain types of cancer. Both breast cancer and endometrial cancer are linked to taking oral estrogen. Women who have a history or family history of these diseases should be careful when taking this medication and should only take it if absolutely necessary. All women on this medication should have regular examinations to detect cancer.