Estradiol and Insomnia: What Users Say

• Pit...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 11, 2023

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "This experience has been extremely unpleasant. All of my cardiac, vaginal, urinary, sleep, agitation, and hot flash symptoms have returned. I strongly believe that this medication should not have been approved by the FDA for use in the United States. The prescribing information says that 'No studies were conducted,' yet the medication uses a different adhesive to hold the micronized estrogen and has smaller dimensions than Vivelle Dot. As a retired pharmacist, I am angry that I am having to go through this situation again. It is frustrating that despite the ratio of surface area, mg's in the 'glue,' and dose being a 1:1 relationship, this medication was still allowed on the market with all of these differences. I have already made a formal complaint to the FDA, and I encourage others to do the same. Please call 1-800-FDA-1088 or report online at accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/. The struggle is real, and action needs to be taken."

• Dis...
• January 29, 2014

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Insomnia, night sweats, moody, uncontrollable crying in the boss's office! I tried so hard for so long to do nothing and let it run its natural course. If I didn't work and could take naps, I'd still suffer and deal with it. Not the case. Have to be on my toes at work. Quality of life was bad. Climara saved my life. It was a tough decision, but I tell you, it works. I feel human again!"

• Not...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 8, 2023

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I was given Dotti as I could not get my usual medication. Within a week, I was feeling depressed, was feeling hot all the time, and only getting 4 hours of sleep, and I have had issues with rage and have been isolating myself. This drug is horrible. Thank you, everyone, for having left reviews."

• Hap...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 2, 2013

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Was on Vivelle-Dot 0.05 plus Prometrium for 4.5 years; felt great. Stopped for 1 year because I worried that being on HRT for 14 years (Prempro for 10 years) total was risky & maybe I was now 'beyond' the hot flashes, etc. Well... I felt lousy the entire time I was without HRT (1 year)... hot flashes, sleepless nights, brain fog, etc. Now I'm back on Vivelle-Dot & Prometrium... feeling so much better! I don't think I'll ever give up this. Plus, the estrogen helps my osteoporosis & vaginal dryness."

• Spi...
• November 21, 2017

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I recently stopped bioidentical pellets and decided to try Vivelle-Dot 0.05 mg. It totally stopped my migraines; however, this dose did not help with insomnia or hot flashes, and I suspect my GP will increase the dose. Now, my insurance will not cover the cost at all because I am over 65. Through a friend, I found that the manufacturer Novartis makes this patch in Europe under the name of Estradot. I ordered it online with a prescription. The difference is $32/month compared to $286/month for Vivelle-Dot in the US. When I opened the packet, they appear identical and work the same. Once my dose is adjusted, I think these will be fine."

• mar...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 6, 2021

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "My drug store replaced my Estradiol patch with Dotti. The first night, my restless sleep and dreaming. Daytime, I was cold and couldn't get warm. The second night, I experienced terrifying nightmares, woke up drenched in sweat two times. I was frightened, didn't know what was wrong with me. Figured it out! Another drug store was able to fill my regular prescription, and I was fine within a few hours. I question if this drug passed trials as a replacement for Estradiol."

• Dis...
• October 26, 2016

For Postmenopausal Symptoms "I started with perimenopause symptoms at 45 years old, beginning with heart palpitations and mild hot flashes. Shortly thereafter, all hell broke loose. Night sweats, hot flashes, crying, major insomnia, and an 18-pound weight gain in less than one year. I had no quality of life, so I went on the estradiol patch. I now feel human. Sleeping great and no night sweats. An occasional hot flash, but I can live with that. I went off for about a year, and almost everything came back with a vengeance. I'm back on!"

• Ang...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 31, 2013

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I have been experiencing hot flashes for 3 years, but I could take it no more. I finally caved and asked for the hormones! My doctor prescribed the Vivelle Dot at 0.05, and 3 weeks later, I called and asked when I could expect some relief from these awful hot flashes. It had cured my sleeping issues, and my sex drive came roaring back, and my dry skin improved, but nothing in the hot flash department. It was increased to 0.075, and still no relief from these massive meltdowns. I am getting very upset that I can get no relief and can't wait to see my doctor again next month. I hate to have another increase but am wondering if it will finally help!"

• Lov...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 17, 2023

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Immediately after being switched from Sandoz to Dotti, my body went into the same horrible rigid muscle pains and terrible foot aches scenario that I had experienced prior to getting on any HRT. I dealt with it for 5 months and then asked to be put back on Sandoz. Within a week back on Sandoz, the horrible foot pain eased. After 3 weeks back on Sandoz, all the muscle pain and foot pain, as well as the sleepless nights that had returned, went away. I feel full of energy again too. I kept my Dotti package because I thought maybe it was a recall situation and I had gotten a bad batch for a number of months, but I haven't seen any recalls for it. All I know is that it absolutely doesn't work for me."

• 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)."

• 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."

• 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!!"

• 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."

• 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."

• Gra...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 22, 2023

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "Had mild menopausal symptoms and confirmed menopause. Since I was under 40, the doctors insisted on HRT and this patch. I was reluctant due to the risks, but I followed doctors' orders. This patch opened a new door in life for me. My sex drive is back and stronger than ever. A gentle gust of wind induced arousal, and I have never felt more pleasure. This is all because of the increased estrogen. All other symptoms stopped. I am not sure if insomnia stopped because I now wake up every 3 hours to touch myself or hope my husband is awake or able to 'sleepwalk' to relieve me. Wow. Hope this stays like this forever. Highly recommend."

• cva...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 3, 2023

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I'm horrified by what I'm reading, and now I think I know what's wrong with me. Menopause for 3 years. Dotti is what I'm using since insurance stopped paying for Estradiol. I've been having terrible symptoms and couldn't figure it out. Dry skin and hair, insomnia, night sweats, easily irritated, fatigue, and I've just had a period?!? Had all the old premenstrual symptoms such as breast tenderness, cramps, and a 4-day period, and MOODY. I do have an appt with my OB/GYN. If Dotti is the reason, I am not happy, as it seems NO ONE likes this patch!"

• Mz ...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 1, 2015

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I started using Eva Mist after a hysterectomy. I saw results after a week of using one spray each morning. No more hot flashes, the night sweats are minimal, the vaginal dryness is much better, and the mood swings are improved. I'm no longer suffering from insomnia. After about a year, some of my symptoms started to recur, so my doctor increased my dosage to 2 sprays each morning. I was worried about taking HRT, but my doctor evaluates my continued use, and I keep up on my yearly well-woman exam. The benefits from such a small dose have been amazing."

• AZN...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 24, 2022

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I was prescribed the mylar estradiol patches 0.5 mg twice weekly. I've had no issues with adherence, except 1 patch, and that was user error. It definitely improved my symptoms of night sweats and vaginal dryness. I'm also taking 200 mg of progesterone to combat insomnia. I had an ovary-sparing total hysterectomy in January this year and noticed an increase in symptoms. Labs show ovaries still working, but levels up and down, consistent with perimenopause at 45 years old. Don't suffer needlessly, there's help!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 21, 2024

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I have been putting up with night sweats, UTIs, hot flashes, low mood, joint pain, hair loss, insomnia, or simply unrestorative sleep, migraines, brain fog, and low libido since my mid forties; but aside from natural remedies, mindfulness mediation, exercise, and a Mirena coil to stop heavy bleeding, I didn’t consider HRT. Then, I had my first COVID infection last fall the week prior to my scheduled booster dose. Two months later, I had my first ever syncope, which resulted in a collapse that caused me a head injury in the winter. Whatever I did to alleviate all those issues helped more or less, until I started Divigel 0.25 mg and Prometrium 100 mg daily about 2 months ago. This combo has been a life-changer for me, starting with reducing the severity and frequency of my hot flashes. I now have fewer migraines, joint pains, and insomnia, which resulted in reducing my need for pain meds, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and Dayvigo for sleep. Less UTIs, improved mood, better memory, and focus."

• Anonymous
• May 30, 2009

For Postmenopausal Symptoms "Just started 3 weeks ago and noticed a weight gain of about 3 pounds right away. It works, though. Noticed no night sweats or insomnia starting the first night. Worth the trade-off so far. Worried about the weight gain, though."

• Gra...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 1, 2021

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I am only one month in with Dottie, however, the difference for me has been nothing short of incredible! Within one hour of applying the patch, it was almost like the world seemed brighter. I was changing sheets in the middle of the night from night sweats, spending 40% of my life surviving hot flashes while others were surviving me, and was truly the prime example of a postmenopausal woman for the past seven years of my life. I was prescribed the Dotti patch and progesterone capsules to be taken nightly one month ago. I will say the first few days I fought a bit of nausea, have had trouble sleeping two nights, and have gotten a little emotional a time or two, but hot flashes have diminished to almost nonexistent. I have not had bad night sweats in three-plus weeks, and my moods are much more stable than before the hormone therapy. This is just my experience so far. Hope it helps! P.S. It is not pretty, I agree. I just try to conceal or put a pretty band-aid over it."

• Bik...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• October 24, 2015

For Oophorectomy "Here's what I had done when I was 38 years old, a surgeon removed my ovaries and fallopian tubes. This is called a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, or BSO. Together with a total abdominal hysterectomy, this is referred to as a TAH/BSO. He left me with a gash about 8 inches long and told me I'd be on HRT the rest of my life, but I would be fine. The one thing I know for sure is I CAN NOT be without medication, believe me, I have tried, and the results are unbearable: hot flashes, insomnia, mild headaches, and the list is long. Started on oral HRT and eventually switched to a patch. The only patch that I have been successful with is the Mylan patch. I use 0.05 mg/day, and if I am consistent, it works well. I am 63, so that's 25 years on HRT."

• Anonymous
• June 10, 2020

For Postmenopausal Symptoms "I’ve been using the Sandoz estradiol patch for nearly five years now. It has worked great for me! However, during this COVID-19 pandemic, I was unable to find the patches. My pharmacy issued Dotti, which I had high hopes for after a bad experience with Mylan patches. The Dotti patch is easy to apply and stays on. However, I am not sleeping. I feel like it is a cheaply made generic that doesn’t administer an accurate dosage."

• Tee...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 30, 2015

Estradiol for Oophorectomy "Been on Mylan Estradiol transdermal 0.1 mg for 4 months. Apparently, it's the generic version of Vivelle Dot. Well, it's been great in handling the symptoms of surgical menopause. No headaches or migraines, no more brain fog, lots of energy. However, I have gained weight, have trouble sleeping (never had that issue in my life!), and feel like scratching my skin off everywhere I affix the patch. No matter how dry my skin is, this large, thick, ugly patch has trouble sticking, and moisture always gets under it. I end up with an angry, itchy red ring that lasts for a week after it's gone. So I'm switching to name brand Vivelle Dot. I hope to get the same benefits with a smaller, less ugly patch, and hope it resolves the irritation!"

• Lau...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• July 11, 2019

Estradiol for Postmenopausal Symptoms "I have been using the Estradiol patch, generic for many years by Mylan, and it has worked fine. My pharmacist recently changed to Grove Pharmaceuticals, and it is awful. They don't work, and they don't stick well. Hot flashes are every 10 minutes, and disrupted sleep. I called the pharmacist and requested a special order to go back to the Mylan brand."