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estradiol

Prescription NDA TE AB3 RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Estradiol
Generic name
estradiol
Dosage form
Film, Extended Release
Route
Transdermal
Marketing category
NDA AUTHORIZED GENERIC · NDA AG
Labeler
Noven Therapeutics, LLC
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
5
NDC product codes
6
Packages
6
Data completeness
83% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Estradiol .025 mg/d 197657 View
Estradiol .0375 mg/d 197657 View
Estradiol .05 mg/d 197657 View
Estradiol .075 mg/d 197657 View
Estradiol .1 mg/d 197657 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Film, Extended Release
Route of administration
Transdermal
Presentations
12

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Estradiol Congeners [CS] CS All 30 members
Estrogen Receptor Agonists [MoA] MoA All 45 members
Estrogen [EPC] EPC All 45 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
203752
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
October 29, 2012
Sponsor
NOVEN
Products on application
5
Submissions recorded
10
Products approved under application 203752.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
203752-001 MINIVELLE FILM, EXTENDED RELEASE ESTRADIOL Prescription AB3 RLD
203752-002 MINIVELLE FILM, EXTENDED RELEASE ESTRADIOL Prescription AB3 RLD
203752-003 MINIVELLE FILM, EXTENDED RELEASE ESTRADIOL Prescription AB3 RLD
203752-004 MINIVELLE FILM, EXTENDED RELEASE ESTRADIOL Prescription AB3 RLD RS
203752-005 MINIVELLE FILM, EXTENDED RELEASE ESTRADIOL Prescription AB3 RLD

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB3
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Patents and exclusivity

Source: Orange Book
Patent listings submitted under 21 U.S.C. 355(b)(1) and (c)(2).
Patent Expires Product Substance Use code Submitted
9730900 July 10, 2028 001 No U-2086 August 18, 2017
9833419 July 10, 2028 001 No December 14, 2017
9730900 July 10, 2028 002 No U-2086 August 18, 2017
9833419 July 10, 2028 002 No December 14, 2017
9730900 July 10, 2028 003 No U-2086 August 18, 2017
9833419 July 10, 2028 003 No December 14, 2017
9730900 July 10, 2028 004 No U-2086 August 18, 2017
9833419 July 10, 2028 004 No December 14, 2017
9730900 July 10, 2028 005 No U-2086 August 18, 2017
9833419 July 10, 2028 005 No December 14, 2017
9724310 July 10, 2028 005 Yes August 18, 2017
8231906 July 4, 2030 001 Yes March 22, 2013
8231906 July 4, 2030 002 Yes —
8231906 July 4, 2030 003 Yes —
8231906 July 4, 2030 004 Yes —
8231906 July 4, 2030 005 Yes May 8, 2015

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 203752.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 22 Labeling Approved February 15, 2024 Standard
Supplement 13 Labeling Approved October 19, 2021 Standard
Supplement 12 Labeling Approved October 19, 2021 Standard
Supplement 16 Labeling Approved October 12, 2021 Standard
Supplement 9 Labeling Approved November 1, 2017 Standard
Supplement 6 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 10, 2014 Standard
Supplement 4 Efficacy Approved September 23, 2014 Standard
Supplement 2 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 21, 2014 Standard
Supplement 5 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 18, 2014 Standard
Original application 1 Type 5 - New Formulation or New Manufacturer Approved October 29, 2012 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · February 20, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · February 16, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · January 24, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · October 20, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · October 20, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · October 13, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · November 2, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · September 26, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · September 25, 2014
  • 0 · Original application · March 28, 2013
  • 0 · Original application · March 28, 2013
  • 0 · Original application · November 1, 2012
  • 0 · Original application · October 29, 2012

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20250724). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20250724 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20240405

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: ENDOMETRIAL CANCER, CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS, PROBABLE DEMENTIA, and BREAST CANCER Estrogen-Alone Therapy Endometrial Cancer There is an increased risk of endometrial cancer in a woman with a uterus who uses unopposed estrogens. Adding a progestogen to estrogen therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer. Perform adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated, to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Cardiovascular Disorders and Probable Dementia The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) estrogen-alone substudy reported increased risks of stroke and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age) during 7.1 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens (CE) [0.625 mg]-alone, relative to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . The WHI Memory Study (WHIMS) estrogen-alone ancillary study of WHI reported an increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years of age or older during 5.2 years of treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone, relative to placebo. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.4 )] . Do not use estrogen-alone therapy for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or dementia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.3 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.3 , 14.4 )] . Only daily oral 0.625 mg CE was studied in the estrogen-alone substudy of the WHI. Therefore, the relevance of the WHI findings regarding adverse cardiovascular events and dementia to lower CE doses, other route of administration, or other estrogen-alone products is not known. Without such data, it is not possible to definitively exclude these risks or determine the extent of these risks for other products. Discuss with your patient the benefits and risks of estrogen-alone therapy, taking into account her individual risk profile. Prescribe estrogens with or without progestogens at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Estrogen Plus Progestin Therapy Cardiovascular Disorders and Probable Dementia The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported increased risks of DVT, pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke and myocardial infarction (MI) in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age) during 5.6 years of treatment with daily oral CE (0.625 mg) combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) [2.5 mg], relative to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . The WHIMS estrogen plus progestin ancillary study of the WHI, reported an increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years of age or older during 4 years of treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) combined with MPA (2.5 mg), relative to placebo. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.4 )] . Do not use estrogen plus progestogen therapy for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or dementia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.3 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.3 , 14.4 )] . Breast Cancer The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy also demonstrated an increased risk of invasive breast cancer [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Only daily oral 0.625 mg CE and 2.5 mg MPA were studied in the estrogen plus progestin substudy of the WHI. Therefore, the relevance of the WHI findings regarding adverse cardiovascular events, dementia and breast cancer to lower CE plus other MPA doses, other routes of administration, or other estrogen plus pr …

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Warnings and Precautions, Malignant Neoplasms ( 5.2 ) 02/2024

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is indicated for: ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is an estrogen indicated for: Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause ( 1.1 ) Prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis ( 1.2 ) Limitation of Use When prescribing solely for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, first consider the use of non-estrogen medications. Consider estrogen therapy only for women at significant risk of osteoporosis. 1.1 Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms Due to Menopause 1.2 Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Limitation of Use When prescribing solely for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, first consider the use of non-estrogen medications. Consider estrogen therapy only for women at significant risk of osteoporosis.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Generally, when estrogen is prescribed for a postmenopausal woman with a uterus, consider addition of a progestogen to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. Generally, a woman without a uterus, does not need a progestogen in addition to her estrogen therapy. In some cases, however, hysterectomized women who have a history of endometriosis may need a progestogen [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.14 )] . Use of estrogen-alone, or in combination with a progestogen, at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Reevaluate postmenopausal women periodically as clinically appropriate to determine if treatment is still necessary. Start therapy with ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM 0.0375 mg per day applied to the skin twice weekly for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause. Dosage adjustment should be guided by the clinical response ( 2.1 ) Start therapy with ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM 0.025 mg per day applied to the skin twice weekly for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The dose may be adjusted as necessary ( 2.2 ) Place ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM on a clean, dry area on the lower abdomen (below the umbilicus) or buttocks. Do not apply ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM to the breasts ( 2.3 ) 2.1 Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms due to Menopause Start therapy with ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM 0.0375 mg per day applied to the skin twice weekly. Make dosage adjustments based on clinical response. Attempt to taper or discontinue the medication at 3 to 6 month intervals. 2.2 Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis due to Menopause 2.3 Application Instructions Place the adhesive side of ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM on a clean, dry area on the lower abdomen (below the umbilicus) or buttocks. Do not apply ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM to the breasts. Replace ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM twice weekly (every 3-4 days). Rotate the sites of application, with an interval of at least 1 week allowed between applications to a particular site. Select an area for application that is not oily, damaged, or irritated. Avoid the waistline, since tight clothing may rub the system off. Apply the system immediately after opening the pouch and removing the protective liner. Press the system firmly in place with the palm of the hand for about 10 seconds, making sure there is good contact with the skin, especially around the edges. In the event that a system falls off, reapply the same system or apply a new system to another location. If a woman has forgotten to apply ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, have her apply a new system as soon as possible. Apply the new system on the original treatment schedule. The interruption of treatment in women taking ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM might increase the likelihood of breakthrough bleeding, spotting and recurrence of symptoms.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Transdermal system: 0.025 mg/day, 0.0375 mg/day, 0.05 mg/day, 0.075 mg/day, and 0.1 mg/day. Transdermal system: 0.025 mg/day, 0.0375 mg/day, 0.05 mg/day, 0.075 mg/day, and 0.1 mg/day ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is contraindicated in women with any of the following conditions: Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Breast cancer or a history of breast cancer [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Estrogen-dependent neoplasia [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Active DVT, PE, or a history of these conditions [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Active arterial thromboembolic disease (for example, stroke and MI), or a history of these conditions [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Known anaphylactic reaction or angioedema or hypersensitivity to ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM Hepatic impairment or disease Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding ( 4 , 5.2 ) Breast cancer or a history of breast cancer ( 4 , 5.2 ) Estrogen-dependent neoplasia ( 4 , 5.2 ) Active DVT, PE, or a history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) Active arterial thromboembolic disease (for example, stroke or MI), or a history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) Known anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, or hypersensitivity to ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM( 4 ) Hepatic impairment or disease ( 4 , 5.10 ) Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Estrogens increase the risk of gallbladder disease ( 5.4 ) Discontinue estrogen if severe hypercalcemia, loss of vision, severe hypertriglyceridemia or cholestatic jaundice occurs ( 5.5 , 5.6 , 5.9 , 5.10 ) Monitor thyroid function in women on thyroid replacement therapy ( 5.11 , 5.18 ) 5.1 Cardiovascular Disorders Increased risks of stroke and DVT are reported with estrogen-alone therapy. Increased risks of PE, DVT, stroke and MI are reported with estrogen plus progestin therapy. Immediately discontinue estrogen with or without progestogen therapy if any of these occur or are suspected. Manage appropriately any risk factors for arterial vascular disease (for example, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) (for example, personal history or family history of VTE, obesity, and systemic lupus erythematosus). Stroke The WHI estrogen-alone substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (45 versus 33 per 10,000 women-years, respectively). The increase in risk was demonstrated in year 1 and persisted [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Immediately discontinue estrogen-alone therapy if a stroke occurs or is suspected. Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest no increased risk of stroke for those women receiving CE (0.625 mg)-alone versus those receiving placebo (18 versus 21 per 10,000 women-years). 1 In WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 strokes per 10,000 women-years, respectively) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . The increase in risk was demonstrated after the first year and persisted. 1 Immediately discontinue estrogen plus progestogen therapy if a stroke occur or is suspected. Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest no increased risk of stroke for those women receiving CE (0.625 mg)-alone versus those receiving placebo (18 versus 21 per 10,000 women-years). 1 The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 strokes per 10,000 women-years) [see Clinical Studies, ( 14.3 )] . The increase in risk was demonstrated after the first year and persisted. 1 Immediately discontinue estrogen plus progestogen therapy if a stroke occurs or is suspected. Coronary Heart Disease The WHI estrogen-alone substudy reported no overall effect on coronary heart disease (CHD) events (defined as nonfatal MI, silent MI, or CHD death) in women receiving estrogen-alone compared to placebo2 [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age, who were less than 10 years since menopause, suggest a reduction (not statistically significant) of CHD events in those women receiving daily CE(0.625 mg)-alone compared to placebo(8 versus 16 per 10,000 women-years). 1 The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported an increased risk (not statistically significant) of CHD events reported in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (41 versus 34 per 10,000 women years). 1 An increase in relative risk was demonstrated in year 1, and a trend toward decreasing relative risk was reported in years 2 through 5 [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . In postmenopausal women with documented heart disease (n = 2,763, average 66.7 years of age), in a controlled clinical trial of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study; HERS), treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2 …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in labeling: Cardiovascular Disorders [see Boxed Warnings and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Malignant Neoplasms [see Boxed Warnings and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 5 percent) with ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM are: headache, breast tenderness, back pain, pain in limb, nasopharyngitis, dyspepsia, nausea, sinusitis, and intermenstrual bleeding ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Noven at 1-800-455-8070 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. There were no clinical trials conducted with ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM. ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is bioequivalent to Vivelle ® . The following adverse reactions are reported with Vivelle therapy: Table 1: Summary of Most Frequently Reported Adverse Reactions (Vivelle versus Placebo) Regardless of Relationship Reported at a Frequency ≥ 5 Percent †Represents milligrams of estradiol delivered daily by each system *NOS represents not otherwise specified **NEC represents not elsewhere classified ***Application site erythema and application site irritation were observed in 3.2% or less of patients across treatment groups. Vivelle 0.025 mg/ day† (N=47) N (%) Vivelle 0.0375 mg/ day† (N=130) N (%) Vivelle 0.05 mg/ day† (N=103) N (%) Vivelle 0.075 mg/ day† (N=46) N (%) Vivelle 0.1 mg/ day† (N=132) N (%) Placebo (N=157) N (%) Gastrointestinal disorders Constipation 2 (4.3) 5 (3.8) 4 (3.9) 3 (6.5) 2 (1.5) 4 (2.5) Dyspepsia 4 (8.5) 12 (9.2) 3 (2.9) 2 (4.3) 0 10 (6.4) Nausea 2 (4.3) 8 (6.2) 4 (3.9) 0 7 (5.3) 5 (3.2) General disorders and administration site conditions *** Influenza-like illness 3 (6.4) 6 (4.6) 8 (7.8) 0 3 (2.3) 10 (6.4) Pain NOS * 0 8 (6.2) 0 2 (4.3) 7 (5.3) 7 (4.5) Infections and infestations Influenza 4 (8.5) 4 (3.1) 6 (5.8) 0 10 (7.6) 14 (8.9) Nasopharyngitis 3 (6.4) 16 (12.3) 10 (9.7) 9 (19.6) 11 (8.3) 24 (15.3) Sinusitis NOS * 4 (8.5) 17 (13.1) 13 (12.6) 3 (6.5) 7 (5.3) 16 (10.2) Upper respiratory tract infection NOS * 3 (6.4) 8 (6.2) 11 (10.7) 4 (8.7) 6 (4.5) 9 (5.7) Investigations Weight increased 4 (8.5) 5 (3.8) 2 (1.9) 2 (4.3) 0 3 (1.9) Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Arthralgia 0 11 (8.5) 4 (3.9) 2 (4.3) 5 (3.8) 9 (5.7) Back pain 4 (8.5) 10 (7.7) 9 (8.7) 4 (8.7) 14 (10.6) 10 (6.4) Neck pain 3 (6.4) 4 (3.1) 4 (3.9) 0 6 (4.5) 2 (1.3) Pain in limb 0 10 (7.7) 7 (6.8) 2 (4.3) 6 (4.5) 9 (5.7) Nervous system disorders Headache NOS * 7 (14.9) 35 (26.9) 32 (31.1) 23 (50.0) 34 (25.8) 37 (23.6) Sinus headache 0 12 (9.2) 5 (4.9) 5 (10.9) 2 (1.5) 8 (5.1) Psychiatric disorders Anxiety NEC ** 3 (6.4) 5 (3.8) 0 0 2 (1.5) 4 (2.5) Depression 5 (10.6) 4 (3.1) 7 (6.8) 0 4 (3.0) 6 (3.8) Insomnia 3 (6.4) 6 (4.6) 4 (3.9) 2 (4.3) 2 (1.5) 9 (5.7) Reproductive system and breast disorders Breast tenderness 8 (17.0) 10 (7.7) 8 (7.8) 3 (6.5) 17 (12.9) 0 Dysmenorrhea 0 0 0 3 (6.5) 0 0 Intermenstrual bleeding 3 (6.4) 9 (6.9) 6 (5.8) 0 14 (10.6) 7 (4.5) Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Sinus congestion 0 4 (3.1) 3 (2.9) 3 (6.5) 6 (4.5) 7 (4.5) Vascular disorders Hot flushes NOS * 3 (6.4) 0 3 (2.9) 0 0 6 (3.8) Hypertension NOS * 2 (4.3) 0 3 (2.9) 0 0 2 (1.3) During the clinical pharmacology studies with ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 35 percent or less of subjects experienced barely perceptible erythema. No transdermal systems were removed due to irritation. Three subjects (2.2 percent) reported mild discomfort while wearing ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM (N=136). 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM. Because …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that estrogens are metabolized partially by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Therefore, inducers or inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism. Inducers of CYP3A4 such as St. John’s wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) preparations, phenobarbital, carbamazepine and rifampin may reduce plasma concentrations of estrogens, possibly resulting in a decrease in therapeutic effects and/or changes in the uterine bleeding profile. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, and grapefruit juice may increase plasma concentrations of estrogens and may result in adverse reactions. Inducers and/or inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism and decrease or increase the estrogen plasma concentration. ( 7.1 )

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is not indicated for use in pregnancy. There are no data with the use of ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in pregnant women; however, epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or nongenital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb-reduction defects) following exposure to combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogens and progestins) before conception or during early pregnancy. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Estrogens are present in human milk and can reduce milk production in breast-feeding women. This reduction can occur at any time but is less likely to occur once breast-feeding is well established. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population. 8.5 Geriatric Use There have not been sufficient numbers of geriatric women involved in clinical studies utilizing ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM to determine whether those over 65 years of age differ from younger subjects in their response to ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM. The Women’s Health Initiative Studies In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg]-alone versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of stroke in women greater than 65 years of age [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] plus MPA [2.5 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of nonfatal stroke and invasive breast cancer in women greater than 65 years of age [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . The Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study In the WHIMS ancillary studies of postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age, there was an increased risk of probable dementia in women receiving estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin when compared to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.4 )] . Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women 8 [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] .

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Endogenous estrogens are largely responsible for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. Although circulating estrogens exist in a dynamic equilibrium of metabolic interconversions, estradiol is the principal intracellular human estrogen and is substantially more potent than its metabolites, estrone and estriol, at the receptor level. The primary source of estrogen in normally cycling adult women is the ovarian follicle, which secretes 70 to 500 mcg of estradiol daily, depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. After menopause, most endogenous estrogen is produced by conversion of androstenedione, secreted by the adrenal cortex, to estrone in the peripheral tissues. Thus, estrone and the sulfate conjugated form, estrone sulfate, are the most abundant circulating estrogens in postmenopausal women. Estrogens act through binding to nuclear receptors in estrogen responsive tissues. To date, two estrogen receptors have been identified. These vary in proportion from tissue to tissue. Circulating estrogens modulate the pituitary secretion of the gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) through a negative feedback mechanism. Estrogens act to reduce the elevated concentrations of these hormones seen in postmenopausal women.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM contains estradiol in a multipolymeric adhesive. The system is designed to release estradiol continuously upon application to intact skin. Five dosage strengths of ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM are available to provide nominal in vivo delivery rates of 0.025, 0.0375, 0.05, 0.075, or 0.1 mg of estradiol per day via the skin. Each corresponding system has an active surface area of 1.65, 2.48, 3.30, 4.95, or 6.6 cm 2 and contains 0.41, 0.62, 0.83, 1.24, or 1.65 mg of estradiol USP, respectively. The composition of the systems per unit area is identical. Estradiol USP is a white, crystalline powder, chemically described as estra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17β-diol. The structural formula is The molecular formula of estradiol is C 18 H 24 O 2 . The molecular weight is 272.39 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is comprised of three layers. Proceeding from the visible surface toward the surface attached to the skin, these layers are (1) a polyolefin laminate backing (2) an adhesive formulation containing estradiol, acrylic adhesive, silicone adhesive, oleyl alcohol, NF, povidone, USP and dipropylene glycol, and (3) a polyester release liner which is attached to the adhesive surface and must be removed before the system can be used. The active component of the system is estradiol. The remaining components of the system are pharmacologically inactive. chemical structure layers

10 OVERDOSAGE Overdosage of estrogen may cause nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, drowsiness and fatigue, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in women. Treatment of overdose consists of discontinuation of ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM therapy with institution of appropriate symptomatic care.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.025 mg per day - each 1.65 cm 2 system contains 0.41 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.025 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems.........................................NDC 68968-3425-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.0375 mg per day - each 2.48 cm 2 system contains 0.62 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.0375 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems.........................................NDC 68968-3437-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.05 mg per day - each 3.3 cm 2 system contains 0.83 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.05 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems........................................NDC 68968-3450-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.075 mg per day - each 4.95 cm 2 system contains 1.24 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.075 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems........................................NDC 68968-3475-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.1 mg per day - each 6.6 cm 2 system contains 1.65 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.1 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems........................................NDC 68968-3410-8 *See Description 16.2 Storage and Handling Store at room temperature 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). [ See USP Controlled Room Temperature ] Do not store unpouched. Apply immediately upon removal from the protective pouch. Used transdermal systems still contain active hormone. To discard, fold the sticky side of the transdermal system together, place it in a sturdy child-proof container, and place this container in the trash. Used transdermal systems should not be flushed in the toilet.

16.1 How Supplied ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.025 mg per day - each 1.65 cm 2 system contains 0.41 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.025 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems.........................................NDC 68968-3425-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.0375 mg per day - each 2.48 cm 2 system contains 0.62 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.0375 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems.........................................NDC 68968-3437-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.05 mg per day - each 3.3 cm 2 system contains 0.83 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.05 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems........................................NDC 68968-3450-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.075 mg per day - each 4.95 cm 2 system contains 1.24 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.075 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems........................................NDC 68968-3475-8 ESTRADIOL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, 0.1 mg per day - each 6.6 cm 2 system contains 1.65 mg of estradiol USP for nominal* delivery of 0.1 mg of estradiol per day. Patient Calendar Pack of 8 Systems........................................NDC 68968-3410-8 *See Description

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
188,328
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: ESTRADIOL. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Recalls

Source: FDA Enforcement
Drug recall enforcement reports associated with this product.
Classification Reported Firm Reason Status
Class II April 28, 2021 Noven Pharmaceuticals Inc Defective Delivery System: Out of specification for release rate testing and shear, an attribute related to the adhesive properties of the transdermal patches. As a result, patients could experience patches that do not stick well to the skin. Terminated

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
50090-7610-0 50090-7610 A-S Medication Solutions 8 POUCH in 1 CARTON (50090-7610-0) / 1 d in 1 POUCH July 22, 2025
68968-3410-8 68968-3410 Noven Therapeutics, LLC 8 POUCH in 1 CARTON (68968-3410-8) / 1 d in 1 POUCH January 1, 2018
68968-3425-8 68968-3425 Noven Therapeutics, LLC 8 POUCH in 1 CARTON (68968-3425-8) / 1 d in 1 POUCH January 1, 2018
68968-3437-8 68968-3437 Noven Therapeutics, LLC 8 POUCH in 1 CARTON (68968-3437-8) / 1 d in 1 POUCH January 1, 2018
68968-3450-8 68968-3450 Noven Therapeutics, LLC 8 POUCH in 1 CARTON (68968-3450-8) / 1 d in 1 POUCH January 1, 2018
68968-3475-8 68968-3475 Noven Therapeutics, LLC 8 POUCH in 1 CARTON (68968-3475-8) / 1 d in 1 POUCH January 1, 2018
50090-7610 50090-7610 A-S Medication Solutions — January 1, 2018
68968-3410 68968-3410 Noven Therapeutics, LLC — January 1, 2018
68968-3425 68968-3425 Noven Therapeutics, LLC — January 1, 2018
68968-3437 68968-3437 Noven Therapeutics, LLC — January 1, 2018
68968-3450 68968-3450 Noven Therapeutics, LLC — January 1, 2018
68968-3475 68968-3475 Noven Therapeutics, LLC — January 1, 2018

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Enforcement FDA Recall records

Generated September 25, 2026 · 14 sections on this page.