Skip to main content

Estradiol User Reviews & Ratings (Page 5)

Brand names: Estrace, Estradiol Patch, Dotti, Climara, Vivelle-Dot, Estrogel, Lyllana, Divigel, Minivelle, Evamist, Alora, Delestrogen, Femring, Depo-Estradiol, Elestrin Estraderm Menostar Estra Pellets …show all brand names

Estradiol has an average rating of 5.8 out of 10 from a total of 592 reviews on Drugs.com. 46% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 37% reported a negative experience.

Reviews for Estradiol

Commonly mentioned side effects
  • lkl...
  • September 5, 2008

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I started using the Vivelle-Dot patch after having a total hysterectomy. Before starting the patch, I was having vaginal burning & itching, hot flashes, and night sweats. Within a week of starting the patch, all of these symptoms were resolved. To date, I've not experienced any side effects."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
75 Report
  • qui...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • November 29, 2014

For Gender Dysphoria "After spending over two decades without any treatment, I sought help for my transsexualism; my doctor first prescribed spironolactone, followed by estradiol. It took a bit of time to find the proper dose to balance my estrogen levels, but patience paid off-no negatives! With estradiol, I've finally been able to start building a life for myself!"

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
57 Report
  • Ano...
  • Taken for 10 years or more
  • April 30, 2021

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Had a complete hysterectomy at 40 years old and have been on the patch for 23 years. It has been a lifesaver. Docs have tried to wean me off of it, and menopause symptoms came back within 2 days: sweating, mood swings/irritability, can't sleep, overall misery. Being on the patch, I feel close to normal and have good skin for 63 years old. I went off the patch for a week and had to get back on, as quality of life was horrible without it. I felt best on .5 and was on it for 20 years, but Doc reduced the dosage to .375 and wants me to be off them permanently because they claim it's risky for cardiovascular health (even though it's supposed to be good for bone health)."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
26 Report
  • Ros...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • January 7, 2016

Estradiol for Oophorectomy "After using Vivelle patch for a number of years following a complete hysterectomy, my insurance company refused to pay for it at the same level due to the Mylan generic. Within a few weeks of switching to the generic, I began to develop adverse symptoms (insomnia, breathing difficulties, anxiety, constant headache). When I made the connection and switched back to Vivelle, the symptoms subsided. Unfortunately, my insurance company refuses to pay for the brand name at the same level, but this is not the same drug. Now instead of paying $40 for a 3-month supply, my cost is over $150 to obtain the brand name product."

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
50 Report
  • god...
  • Taken for 10 years or more
  • January 19, 2013

Estradiol for Oophorectomy "I had ovarian cancer and had an oophorectomy. My oncologist wanted me to use this drug for at least 10 years. Started with a higher dose and have gone down to 0.05. I have tried dropping it to 0.025, but noticed I was having hot flashes and lack of sleep at night. I have gone back to the 0.05 and enjoy it so much more, although I am now going on my 12th year of taking it. Trying to wean off of it, but without the ovaries, it is hard. Love this patch!!"

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
62 Report

Are you taking this medicine?

Your review helps others make informed decisions.
Write a review
  • del...
  • February 13, 2021

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I have used the Climara patch since 2003, with no problem sticking, but now, since later 2020, I have a terrible problem with wrinkling and coming off. I know why, they have cut down on the thickness of the plastic, so therefore are putting less glue or whatever they put to stick on the patch. They're saving money but causing us problems. Now I have to put a large band over the patch to make sure it will stay on. I have called the company and reported it to my drug store, CVS. Now I have to wait to see what they will do."

8 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
27 Report
  • txt...
  • October 14, 2012

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I had a total hysterectomy and experienced terrible hot flashes. I began with a dosage of 0.05, but the hot flashes continued, although less severe. My doctor changed the dosage to 0.1, and the hot flashes are a thing of the past. I've only been on this medication for 3 months, but haven't experienced any side effects so far."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
63 Report
  • KDS...
  • October 8, 2020

Estradiol for Oophorectomy "After my hysterectomy, I was having post-menopausal symptoms. My gynecologist mentioned options, and I chose the transdermal patch. Initially, I used Climara because the generics were not on the market. Climara was great. Eventually, I was switched to the Sandoz-manufactured patch, which also worked great. This year, my prescription was filled with the Mylan-manufactured patch, and those patches just fall off. It is ridiculous-a HUGE waste of money, plus all of the symptoms returned. So, I asked my pharmacy if they could get the Sandoz brand, but it was on backorder until I believe this month (Nov. 2020). They recommended I check with other pharmacy chains, so I did. I eventually found a pharmacy with Sandoz patches in stock. Each pharmacy that did not have the Sandoz brand told me it was on backorder. So, I was lucky to find a pharmacy that had the Sandoz brand available. As soon as I started wearing their patch again, my symptoms vanished. I do intend to report the Mylan brand to the FDA."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
30 Report
  • Anonymous
  • November 8, 2017

Estradiol for Oophorectomy "At the age of 43, I had a complete hysterectomy due to out-of-control endometriosis. One week after surgery, my doctor prescribed Climara, and almost 21 years later, I'm still using it. I never have hot flashes or any other symptoms of menopause. The patches have occasionally come off, but that's my own fault if I don't make sure to get it firmly attached. If you rub it on there really well, it'll stay put all week. I don't ever plan to stop using them. I also skip using my insurance and order them from a Canadian pharmacy and pay out of pocket. Cost with insurance in the US=$400 per month. Cost from Canada=$40 per month. It's the exact same thing, manufactured by Bayer."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
39 Report
  • Sup...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • April 5, 2018

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I have more energy and have noticed that I care about my physical appearance. I am sleeping better and can find words again on the brand name Vivelle-Dot. The pharmacy tried to give me the generic, but that doesn’t seem as effective. It’s way too expensive, but I am paying the price for a better quality of life."

8 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
37 Report
  • Kor...
  • March 26, 2017

For Postmenopausal Symptoms "At 46, I had a total abdominal hysterectomy 6 months ago due to adenomyosis and severe endometriosis. Had no hormone therapy at first, the doctor took a wait-and-see approach. One month ago, I started having intense hot flashes and joint inflammation. Doctor prescribed 1 mg estradiol a week ago, and I noticed my symptoms vanished almost completely by day 2. I learned after trial and error that taking it in the morning works best for me as it gives me a ton of energy. I'm starting to feel human again."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
43 Report
  • Anonymous
  • December 24, 2010

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I have used a 0.75 patch for 6 years. To make it stick better, rub your skin with alcohol and let it dry. Press on for about 20-30 seconds. Really, the only thing I find frustrating is the fact that by the 5th day my body is clearly not getting as much medicine, and I start having body symptoms to parallel this. I also have very sore knots in my breasts, especially the first few days. But other than this, it has been a life-saver since I have post-surgical menopause."

8 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
64 Report
  • Anonymous
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 27, 2016

For Postmenopausal Symptoms "I have been using estradiol for a week now, and I only wish I would have gone and seen my doctor sooner. After one day, I could tell a difference with my moods. I don't feel so wired or on edge anymore. I did not notice my mood swings, but I'm sure my family did...lol My hot flashes are gone. Thank you!"

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
44 Report
  • Wel...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • June 28, 2012

Estradiol for Primary Ovarian Failure "I am in my early forties and menopause hit me at an early age. I struggled with whether or not I should go on HRT due to the risks. With that said, the symptoms were creating sheer havoc in my life (severe hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, and decreased libido - my poor husband). I am happy to say that after my first application, I slept through the night for the first time in two years! My hot flashes have decreased and I don't have that foggy feeling in my head. I am on Vivelle Dot and a progesterone regimen (light doses). I began Vivelle Dot two weeks ago and would highly recommend it."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
57 Report
  • Anonymous
  • May 27, 2023

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I normally use Estradiol 50, but had to change to this as it was not available. Not only do they peel off and are incredibly uncomfortable, but for 2 weeks I have been experiencing all the symptoms I started HRT treatment for again: heart palpitations, very low mood, tiredness, headaches, and memory problems, all of which had disappeared when I started using HRT in the form of Estradiol. Something is not right, and these are awful. 0 out of 10."

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
14 Report
  • apr...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • April 18, 2015

For Postmenopausal Symptoms "Been using estradiol patches for the past 2 years since my full hysterectomy. I am 39 years old. No side effects. Can't live without them. One day with no patch and hot flashes, fatigue, and moodiness is back."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
46 Report
  • Lis...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • November 13, 2018

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Taking 0.25 mg 1/x daily. Thought I could get through radical hysterectomy without HRT and suffered 8 months with minor symptoms as hot flashes, but most significant was major depression. Mental chemistry balances out within 30/60 minutes of Divigel application. To date, not noticing any side effects."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
33 Report
  • mai...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • December 11, 2020

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Started pre-menopause in my late 40s. Now I'm 53 years. Was running 2 businesses on 4 hours of sleep a night, sweating and hot flushes, electric fan on all night, just couldn't take anymore. I was taking natural medication from a health shop which wasn't working anymore. My GP put me on Divigel, started on a low dose, I'm now on 0.1% x 2 every day. My GP also put a Mirena coil in to balance my hormones, no more periods, no more hot flushes or sweats, I've loads of energy, couldn't be happier. I also get a yearly breast check, scan, smear, and ultrasound, the full works. My doctor is a cancer patient, she's all about quality of life. I've put on 6 lbs, but that could also be down to my chocolate cravings. I'm now a nicer person."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
25 Report
  • spu...
  • September 11, 2015

For Postmenopausal Symptoms "In short, upon having my name-brand hormone patch replaced by this awful generic, I basically had my estrogen level drop to almost nothing in less than four months. The patch didn't stick, it kept coming off. I started experiencing all post-menopausal symptoms to the extreme. I didn't know what was going on at first. This generic will not do the job. I can't believe the FDA approved this generic medication! It has been the worst 6 months of my life! Since going back on the name brand, after just one month, my estrogen level is increasing and all menopausal symptoms are starting to go away. To anyone considering the money saving is cashing in their own sanity, it's not worth it! I'd give it 0, but that's not an option."

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
48 Report
  • Hot...
  • September 2, 2020

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Been having major hot flashes, lack of sleep for 2 years. Just was given Dotti 0.25 mg patch. On my 7th day and I notice a difference. Not flashing as often, and I have actually slept the past couple of nights. I go see my doctor tomorrow for a follow-up. My only concern is the risk of cancer. I will discuss this tomorrow. My mood has also improved! So far, very happy with this."

9 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
28 Report
  • jes...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • November 5, 2018

For Gender Dysphoria "Estrogen. It's the best estrogen. Makes growth of breast tissue. But seriously, I can't recommend estradiol enough. I've been taking it sublingually for around 4 months now (2 mg daily for the first 3 months, increased to 4 mg last month), and I feel like an entirely different person. My skin feels so much softer (even though it's still just as dry >:( ), and I've noticed a fair bit of breast growth (they look a bit bigger but feel much different due to an increased amount of tissue), as well as more fat on my face. The one downside is the mood effects; my emotional lows are pretty low. Luckily, my highs are much higher than they ever were before. I'd recommend any trans woman get on estradiol ASAP (provided they're not on it already, haha)."

10 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
35 Report
  • men...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 25, 2023

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "First time using these patches this month, and they are absolutely awful. They keep falling off and will not stay on for the 3 days. Been using other brand patches for over a year and never had this problem. Definitely not fit for purpose."

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
15 Report
  • KPa...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • July 22, 2021

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I was so relieved to find these reviews. My doctor uses another pharmacy for 'ease' and, as a result, I got the Dotti Estradiol patch. I used it for four days. It does not work. I got hot flashes, red patches, mood swings -- the works. It felt like life was so bleak. Less than 10 hours back on Sandoz and things are looking up again. Red patches gone. No hot flashes... Why do they even make this patch?!"

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
22 Report
  • Pat...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 24, 2021

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I had a terrible vasomotor reaction. First and last time I used it, after 18 hours, the patch bottomed out, and I started having hot flashes. I was shaking, had a brain-buster headache, and severe nausea. Fortunately, I still had some of my generic Noven patches left over. I ripped off the Dotti and put on the one I usually used, and within 30 minutes, I was fine. Dotti is garbage, yet pharmacies are pushing it right now. Must be getting paid to do so."

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
21 Report
  • fru...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • February 20, 2021

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I moved, which required changing pharmacies. I was on a different patch in my other state, and my new pharmacy offered Dotti. I had no idea why my hormone levels were dropping, why my moods went from happy and energetic to exhausted and depressed, with bouts of anger. I would not recommend this manufacturer. It started off okay, but I was still cycling through my old patches. A couple of weeks later, I lost all interest in anything and even had to make an appointment to see someone for major depression (never felt that before). Please beware. I have been using Dotti for 3 months and had to request pills on top of it to compensate for the drop in my levels."

1 / 10
Was this helpful?YesNo
23 Report

See also:

Are you taking this medicine?

Your review helps others make informed decisions.
Write a review
Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or remove inappropriate content. Reviews appearing to come from parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any medication and should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals.