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Estradiol
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estradiol | .25 mg/.25g | 197657 | View |
| Estradiol | .5 mg/.5g | 197657 | View |
| Estradiol | .75 mg/.75g | 197657 | View |
| Estradiol | .75 mg/1.25g | 197657 | View |
| Estradiol | 1 mg/g | 197657 | View |
| Estradiol | 1.25 mg/1.25g | 197657 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| 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| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 217610-001 | ESTRADIOL | GEL | ESTRADIOL | Prescription | AB | ||
| 217610-002 | ESTRADIOL | GEL | ESTRADIOL | Prescription | AB | ||
| 217610-003 | ESTRADIOL | GEL | ESTRADIOL | Prescription | AB | ||
| 217610-004 | ESTRADIOL | GEL | ESTRADIOL | Prescription | AB | ||
| 217610-005 | ESTRADIOL | GEL | ESTRADIOL | Prescription | AB |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat 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.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 5 | Labeling | Approved | June 13, 2024 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | August 24, 2023 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260821). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: 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 ( 14.2 )] . 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 and 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 ( 14.3 )] . 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 ( 14.2 , 14.3 )] . 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 routes 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 pulmonary embolism (PE), DVT, 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 ( 14.2 )] . 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 and 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 ( 14.3 )] . 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 ( 14.2 , 14.3 )] . Breast Cancer The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy demonstrated an increased risk of invasive breast cancer [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ), and Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . 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 prog …
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingRECENT MAJOR CHANGES Warnings and Precautions, Malignant Neoplasms ( 5.2 ) 11/2023 Boxed Warning, Cardiovascular Disorders, Breast Cancer, Probable Dementia removed 2/2026 Dosage and Administration, Important Use Information ( 2.1 ) 2/2026 Contraindications ( 4 ) 2/2026 Warnings and Precautions, Cardiovascular Disorders ( 5.1 ) 2/2026 Warnings and Precautions, Malignant Neoplasms ( 5.2 ) 2/2026 Warnings and Precautions, Risks Associated with Co-administration of Estrogen Plus Progesterone ( 5.3 ) 2/2026 Warnings and Precautions, Probable Dementia removed 2/2026 Warnings and Precautions, Addition of a Progestogen When a Woman Has Not Had a Hysterectomy removed 2/2026
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Estradiol gel, 0.06% is an estrogen indicated for: Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause ( 1.1 ) Treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy due to menopause ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms due to Menopause . 1.2 Treatment of Moderate to Severe Symptoms of Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy due to Menopause Limitation of Use When prescribing solely for the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy due to menopause, first consider the use of topical vaginal products.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 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 to use a progestogen in addition to her estrogen therapy. In some cases, however, hysterectomized women with a history of endometriosis may need a progestogen [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.14 )] . Use 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. Metered-dose pump: Daily administration of estradiol gel, 0.06% 1.25 g per day (1 pump depression) to the arm ( 2.1 , 2.2 ) 2.1 Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms due to Menopause Estradiol gel, 0.06% 1.25 g per day is the single approved dose for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause. The lowest effective dose of estradiol gel, 0.06% for this indication has not been determined. Before using the canister for the first time, it must be primed. Remove the large canister cover, and fully depress the pump 5 times. Discard the unused gel by thoroughly rinsing down the sink or placing it in the household trash. After priming, the pump is ready to use. The recommended area of application is the arm. Apply a thin layer over the entire arm on the inside and outside from wrist to shoulder. 2.2 Treatment of Moderate to Severe Symptoms of Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy due to Menopause Estradiol gel, 0.06% 1.25 g per day is the single approved dose for the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy due to menopause. The lowest effective dose of estradiol gel, 0.06% for this indication has not been determined. When prescribing solely for the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, first consider the use of topical vaginal products. Before using the canister for the first time, it must be primed. Remove the large canister cover, and fully depress the pump 5 times. Discard the unused gel by thoroughly rinsing down the sink or placing it in the household trash. After priming, the pump is ready to use. The recommended area of application is the arm. Apply a thin layer over the entire arm on the inside and outside from wrist to shoulder.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS Estradiol Gel, 0.1% is available in five doses of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25 grams for transdermal application (corresponding to 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25 mg estradiol, respectively). Estradiol gel is a clear, colorless smooth gel, free from visible particulate matter. Gel: 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25 gram-filled single-dose foil packets containing 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25 mg estradiol, respectively (3)
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Estradiol gel is contraindicated in women with any of the following conditions: • Abnormal genital bleeding of unknown etiology [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Current or history of breast cancer [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Estrogen-dependent neoplasia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Active DVT, PE, or history of these conditions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Active arterial thromboembolic disease (for example, stroke or MI), or a history of these conditions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Known anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, or hypersensitivity to estradiol gel • Hepatic impairment or disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] • Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders • Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding ( 4 ) • Breast cancer or a history of breast cancer ( 4 , 5.2 ) • Estrogen-dependent neoplasia ( 4 , 5.2 ) • Active DVT, PE, or history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) • Active arterial thromboembolic disease (e.g., stroke and MI), or history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) • Known anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, or hypersensitivity to estradiol gel ( 4 ) • Hepatic impairment or disease ( 4 , 5.9 ) • Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 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 , 5.22 ) 5.1 Cardiovascular Disorders Increased risks of stroke and DVT are reported with estrogen-alone therapy. Increased risk 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 (e.g., hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) (e.g., 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 strokes per 10,000 women-years, respectively). The increase in risk was demonstrated in year 1 and persisted [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . 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 The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 per 10,000 women-years, respectively) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . 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 placebo 2 [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . 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 in those 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 ( 14.2 )] . 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 (2.5 mg) demonstrated no cardiovascular benefit. During an average follow-up of 4.1 years, treatment with CE plus MPA did not reduce the overall rate of CHD events in postmenopausal women with established coronary heart disease. There were more CHD events in the CE plus MPA-treated group than in the placebo group in year 1, but not during the subsequent years. Two thousand, three hundred and twenty-one (2,321) women from the original HERS trial agreed to participate in an open label extension of HERS, HERS II. Average follow-up in HERS II was an additional 2.7 years, for a total of 6.8 years overall. Rates of CHD events were comparable among women in the CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 m …
Warnings
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS 5.1 Cardiovascular Disorders Increased risks of stroke and DVT are reported with estrogen-alone therapy. Increased risk 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 (e.g., hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) (e.g., 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 strokes per 10,000 women-years, respectively). The increase in risk was demonstrated in year 1 and persisted [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] . 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 The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 per 10,000 women-years, respectively) [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] . 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 placebo 2 [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] . 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 in those 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 (14.2)] . 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 (2.5 mg) demonstrated no cardiovascular benefit. During an average follow-up of 4.1 years, treatment with CE plus MPA did not reduce the overall rate of CHD events in postmenopausal women with established coronary heart disease. There were more CHD events in the CE plus MPA-treated group than in the placebo group in year 1, but not during the subsequent years. Two thousand, three hundred and twenty-one (2,321) women from the original HERS trial agreed to participate in an open label extension of HERS, HERS II. Average follow-up in HERS II was an additional 2.7 years, for a total of 6.8 years overall. Rates of CHD events were comparable among women in the CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) group and the placebo group in HERS, HERS II, and overall. Venous Thromboembolism In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, the risk of VTE (DVT and PE) was increased for women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to placebo (30 versus 22 per 10,000 women-years), although …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling: Cardiovascular Disorders [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Malignant Neoplasms [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. The most common adverse reactions (incidence >5 percent and greater than placebo) in any estradiol gel 0.1% treatment group are metrorrhagia, breast tenderness, vaginal mycosis, nasopharyngitis, and upper respiratory tract infection ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Xiromed, LLC. at 844-XIROMED (844-947-6633) 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. Estradiol gel 0.1% was studied at doses of 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 gram per day in a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study that included a total of 495 postmenopausal women (86.5 percent Caucasian). The adverse reactions that occurred at a rate greater than 5 percent and greater than placebo in any of the treatment groups are summarized in Table 1. Table 1: Number (%) of Subjects with Common Adverse Reactions* in a 12-Week Placebo-Controlled Study of Estradiol Gel 0.1% Estradiol Gel 0.1% Placebo SYSTEM ORGAN CLASS Preferred Term 0.25 grams/day N=122 n (%) 0.5 grams/day N=123 n (%) 1.0 gram/day N=125 n (%) N=125 n (%) *Adverse reactions reported by >5 percent of patients in any treatment group. INFECTIONS & INFESTATIONS Nasopharyngitis 7 (5.7) 5 (4.1) 6 (4.8) 5 (4.0) Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 7 (5.7) 3 (2.4) 2 (1.6) 2 (1.6) Vaginal mycosis 1 (0.8) 3 (2.4) 8 (6.4) 4 (3.2) REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM & BREAST DISORDERS Breast Tenderness 3 (2.5) 7 (5.7) 11 (8.8) 2 (1.6) Metrorrhagia 5 (4.1) 7 (5.7) 12 (9.6) 2 (1.6) In a 12-week placebo-controlled study of estradiol gel 0.1%, application site reactions were seen in <1 percent of participating women. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of estradiol gel 0.1%. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Genitourinary System Amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, ovarian cyst, vaginal discharge Breasts Gynecomastia Cardiovascular Palpitations, ventricular extrasystoles Gastrointestinal Flatulence Skin Rash pruritic, urticaria Eyes Retinal vein occlusion Central Nervous System Tremor Miscellaneous Arthralgia, application site rash, asthenia, chest discomfort, fatigue, feeling abnormal, heart rate increased, insomnia, malaise, muscle spasms, pain in extremity, weight increased
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 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 estrogen 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 Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Estradiol gel is not indicated for use in pregnant women. There are no data with the use of estradiol gel 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 (estrogen 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 gel and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from estradiol gel or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Estradiol gel 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 studies utilizing estradiol gel to determine whether those over 65 years of age differ from younger subjects in their response to estradiol gel. 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 Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Clinical Studies (14.2)] . 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 Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2), and Clinical Studies (14.2)] . 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 developing probable dementia in women receiving estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin when compared to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3), and Clinical Studies (14.3)] . 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 Labeling12.1 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, which is 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 FSH, through a negative feedback mechanism. Estrogens act to reduce the elevated levels of these hormones seen in postmenopausal women.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Estradiol gel 0.1%, is a clear, colorless gel, which is odorless when dry. It is designed to deliver sustained circulating concentrations of estradiol, USP when applied once daily to the skin. The gel is applied to a small area (200 cm 2 ) of the thigh in a thin layer. Estradiol gel is available in five doses of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25 grams for topical application (corresponding to 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25 mg estradiol USP, respectively). The active component of the topical gel is estradiol USP, an estrogen. Estradiol, USP is a white crystalline powder, chemically described as estra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17ß-diol. It has an empirical formula of C 18 H 24 O 2 and molecular weight of 272.38. The structural formula is: The remaining components of the gel (carbomer homopolymer type B, ethyl alcohol 95%, propylene glycol, purified water, and trolamine) are pharmacologically inactive. Estradiol gel, 0.1% contains 55% w/w alcohol. Structural Formula
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 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 gel therapy with institution of appropriate symptomatic care.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied Estradiol Gel 0.1% is a clear, colorless, smooth, opalescent gel supplied in single-dose foil packets of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25 grams, corresponding to 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25 mg estradiol, respectively. 0.25 mg estradiol per single-dose foil packet NDC 13811-090-32, carton of 30 packets NDC 13811-090-92, carton of 90 packets 0.5 mg estradiol per single-dose foil packet NDC 13811-091-32, carton of 30 packets NDC 13811-091-92, carton of 90 packets 0.75 mg estradiol per single-dose foil packet NDC 13811-092-32, carton of 30 packets NDC 13811-092-92, carton of 90 packets 1.0 mg estradiol per single-dose foil packet NDC 13811-093-32, carton of 30 packets NDC 13811-093-92, carton of 90 packets 1.25 mg estradiol per single-dose foil packet NDC 13811-094-32, carton of 30 packets NDC 13811-094-92, carton of 90 packets Keep out of the reach of children. 16.2 Storage and Handling Store at 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Excursions permitted to 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed 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| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class II | May 27, 2026 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Defective Container; packets were found to be either empty or partially full. | Ongoing |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70954-530-20 | 70954-530 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70954-530-20) / .5 g in 1 PACKET (70954-530-10) | August 30, 2023 |
| 70954-531-20 | 70954-531 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70954-531-20) / .25 g in 1 PACKET (70954-531-10) | August 24, 2023 |
| 70954-532-20 | 70954-532 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70954-532-20) / .75 g in 1 PACKET (70954-532-10) | August 24, 2023 |
| 70954-533-20 | 70954-533 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70954-533-20) / 1 g in 1 PACKET (70954-533-10) | August 24, 2023 |
| 70954-534-20 | 70954-534 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70954-534-20) / 1.25 g in 1 PACKET (70954-534-10) | August 24, 2023 |
| 69238-2448-3 | 69238-2448 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (69238-2448-3) / 1.25 g in 1 PACKET (69238-2448-1) | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2449-3 | 69238-2449 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (69238-2449-3) / 1 g in 1 PACKET (69238-2449-1) | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2450-3 | 69238-2450 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (69238-2450-3) / .75 g in 1 PACKET (69238-2450-1) | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2451-3 | 69238-2451 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (69238-2451-3) / .5 g in 1 PACKET (69238-2451-1) | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2452-3 | 69238-2452 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (69238-2452-3) / .25 g in 1 PACKET (69238-2452-1) | July 15, 2024 |
| 72162-2290-3 | 72162-2290 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72162-2290-3) / .25 g in 1 PACKET | April 30, 2024 |
| 72162-2291-3 | 72162-2291 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72162-2291-3) / .5 g in 1 PACKET | April 30, 2024 |
| 72162-2292-3 | 72162-2292 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72162-2292-3) / .75 g in 1 PACKET | April 30, 2024 |
| 72162-2293-3 | 72162-2293 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72162-2293-3) / 1 g in 1 PACKET | April 30, 2024 |
| 21922-015-40 | 21922-015 | Encube Ethicals, Inc. | 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (21922-015-40) / 50 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP | May 13, 2026 |
| 72603-241-30 | 72603-241 | NorthStar Rx LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72603-241-30) / .25 g in 1 PACKET (72603-241-01) | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-242-30 | 72603-242 | NorthStar Rx LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72603-242-30) / .5 g in 1 PACKET (72603-242-01) | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-243-30 | 72603-243 | NorthStar Rx LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72603-243-30) / .75 g in 1 PACKET (72603-243-01) | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-244-30 | 72603-244 | NorthStar Rx LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72603-244-30) / 1 g in 1 PACKET (72603-244-01) | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-245-30 | 72603-245 | NorthStar Rx LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (72603-245-30) / 1.25 g in 1 PACKET (72603-245-01) | December 18, 2023 |
| 45802-134-30 | 45802-134 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (45802-134-30) / .25 g in 1 PACKET | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-202-30 | 45802-202 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (45802-202-30) / .5 g in 1 PACKET | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-310-30 | 45802-310 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (45802-310-30) / .75 g in 1 PACKET | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-452-30 | 45802-452 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (45802-452-30) / 1 g in 1 PACKET | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-573-30 | 45802-573 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (45802-573-30) / 1.25 g in 1 PACKET | December 7, 2023 |
| 73473-308-50 | 73473-308 | Solaris Pharma Corporation | 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (73473-308-50) / 50 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP | January 28, 2026 |
| 13811-090-32 | 13811-090 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-090-32) / .25 g in 1 PACKET | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-090-92 | 13811-090 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 90 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-090-92) / .25 g in 1 PACKET | August 20, 2026 |
| 13811-091-32 | 13811-091 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-091-32) / .5 g in 1 PACKET | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-091-92 | 13811-091 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 90 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-091-92) / .5 g in 1 PACKET | August 20, 2026 |
| 13811-092-32 | 13811-092 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-092-32) / .75 g in 1 PACKET | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-092-92 | 13811-092 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 90 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-092-92) / .75 g in 1 PACKET | August 20, 2026 |
| 13811-093-32 | 13811-093 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-093-32) / 1 g in 1 PACKET | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-093-92 | 13811-093 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 90 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-093-92) / 1 g in 1 PACKET | August 20, 2026 |
| 13811-094-32 | 13811-094 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-094-32) / 1.25 g in 1 PACKET | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-094-92 | 13811-094 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | 90 PACKET in 1 CARTON (13811-094-92) / 1.25 g in 1 PACKET | August 20, 2026 |
| 70700-143-35 | 70700-143 | Xiromed, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70700-143-35) / .25 g in 1 PACKET | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-144-35 | 70700-144 | Xiromed, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70700-144-35) / .5 g in 1 PACKET | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-145-35 | 70700-145 | Xiromed, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70700-145-35) / 1 g in 1 PACKET | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-194-35 | 70700-194 | Xiromed, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70700-194-35) / .75 g in 1 PACKET | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-195-35 | 70700-195 | Xiromed, LLC | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (70700-195-35) / 1.25 g in 1 PACKET | October 1, 2022 |
| 70954-530 | 70954-530 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | August 24, 2023 |
| 70954-531 | 70954-531 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | August 24, 2023 |
| 70954-532 | 70954-532 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | August 24, 2023 |
| 70954-533 | 70954-533 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | August 24, 2023 |
| 70954-534 | 70954-534 | ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | August 24, 2023 |
| 69238-2448 | 69238-2448 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | — | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2449 | 69238-2449 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | — | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2450 | 69238-2450 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | — | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2451 | 69238-2451 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | — | July 15, 2024 |
| 69238-2452 | 69238-2452 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC | — | July 15, 2024 |
| 72162-2290 | 72162-2290 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 72162-2291 | 72162-2291 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 72162-2292 | 72162-2292 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 72162-2293 | 72162-2293 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 21922-015 | 21922-015 | Encube Ethicals, Inc. | — | May 13, 2026 |
| 72603-241 | 72603-241 | NorthStar Rx LLC | — | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-242 | 72603-242 | NorthStar Rx LLC | — | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-243 | 72603-243 | NorthStar Rx LLC | — | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-244 | 72603-244 | NorthStar Rx LLC | — | December 18, 2023 |
| 72603-245 | 72603-245 | NorthStar Rx LLC | — | December 18, 2023 |
| 45802-134 | 45802-134 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-202 | 45802-202 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-310 | 45802-310 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-452 | 45802-452 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 45802-573 | 45802-573 | Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd | — | December 7, 2023 |
| 73473-308 | 73473-308 | Solaris Pharma Corporation | — | January 28, 2026 |
| 13811-090 | 13811-090 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | — | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-091 | 13811-091 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | — | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-092 | 13811-092 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | — | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-093 | 13811-093 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | — | October 10, 2022 |
| 13811-094 | 13811-094 | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | — | October 10, 2022 |
| 70700-143 | 70700-143 | Xiromed, LLC | — | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-144 | 70700-144 | Xiromed, LLC | — | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-145 | 70700-145 | Xiromed, LLC | — | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-194 | 70700-194 | Xiromed, LLC | — | October 1, 2022 |
| 70700-195 | 70700-195 | Xiromed, LLC | — | October 1, 2022 |
Sources for 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 · 13 sections on this page.