Estradiol Acetate (Oral)

Estradiol Acetate is a pill that menopausal women take to relieve symptoms related to menopause such as hot flashes and mood swings. This medication is taken at the same time every day; it replaces estrogen that the woman’s body is no longer producing once she begins to go through menopause.

Side Effects/Warnings

Women who take this medication may be at increased risk for cardiovascular problems such as blood clots, strokes and heart attacks. Women can reduce their risk by refraining from smoking. They should also have their cardiovascular health monitored regularly and should address blood pressure or other heart problems immediately.

Patients taking this medication should also have regular cancer screenings, as this medication can cause both endometrial cancer and breast cancer. Women may want to have a hysterectomy after menopause to reduce their risk of cancer while on this drug.