You'll see a new Rx estrogen cream, Estrasorb.
It's an alternative to using estrogen patches for relieving postmenopausal symptoms.
Topical estrogen might be safer than oral estrogen. Topical estrogen seems less likely to cause thrombosis... probably because it avoids the first pass through the liver.
Most women will apply TWO foil packets each day...one to each leg. This is equivalent to 0.05 mg/day of estradiol.
Women rub the contents of one packet to the top of one thigh and the back of the calf. Then repeat on the other leg.
Advise women NOT to apply Estrasorb and sunscreen at the same time...the sunscreen can INCREASE estrogen absorption.
Also warn women that too much skin-to-skin contact can transfer a small amount of estrogen to their partner.
Keep in mind women with a uterus need to take a progestin along with Estrasorb to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.
Lancet 2003;362:428. J Am Coll Cardiol 2003;41:1358. Obstet Gynecol 2002;99(4 Suppl):61S. Menopause 2003;10:6.