What is estradiol used for?

Menopause (change of life or stopping the monthly menstrual cycle) is associated with falling estradiol levels. The medication estradiol is used for estrogen replacement to treat symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness in menopausal women. It is also used to prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis. Estradiol may also be used to relieve symptoms of certain types of breast cancer and prostate cancer.

How does estradiol work?

The follicle-stimulating hormone secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain causes estradiol levels to rise. Production of endogenous estrogens slows down significantly after menopause, as mentioned above. Synthetic estrogens like estradiol work by replacing estrogen in postmenopausal women. They relieve menopausal symptoms by binding to estrogen receptors.  

What are estradiol doses?

Estradiol is available as 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg tablets. The usual dose is 1 to 2 mg daily of estradiol to treat menopause symptoms. The lowest possible dose that controls symptoms is used for the shortest possible time. Your doctor will evaluate you at 3- to 6-month intervals to determine the need for continued treatment. The medication is recommended to be administered cyclically (for example, 3 weeks on, 1 week off).

For the treatment of invasive breast cancer, estradiol is given at a dose of 10 mg three times a day for at least 3 months.