Vivelle Dot

Vivelle Dot (called Estradot in Canada) is a prescription estrogen replacement therapy, administered as a transdermal patch, that contains Estradiol, a type of estrogen. You might be familiar with the term Estradiol because Ethinyl Estradiol is often used in hormonal birth control. Estradiol should not be confused with medications that contain conjugated estrogens (such as Premarin); these include a mixture of estrogens as opposed to one specific type.

Synthetic Estradiol functions like the primary type of estrogen usually produced by a person’s ovaries. This estrogen is essential for a number of bodily functions, but its supply may decrease during menopause or because of other hormonal issues. When this happens, several negative bodily effects-including diminished bone density or vaginal dryness-can occur. Hormone replacement therapy via supplemental Estradiol may provide one option for managing these adverse effects.

The transdermal administration of this medication means the patch is applied directly to the skin. It then releases Estradiol into and through the skin so it can circulate through the body. Once it enters the body, Estradiol helps increase estrogen levels and maintain the bodily functions that require estrogen, including protein synthesis, DNA and RNA synthesis, healthy pituitary function, and healthy bone maintenance. In some cases, Estradiol may be administered as a spray or topical Estradiol in gel form. Estradiol vaginal options include tablets or rings that are inserted directly into the vagina.

An Estradiol patch is prescribed for a number of conditions, many of which relate to menopause. These include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and/or postmenopausal osteoporosis. Estradiol may also be used to treat people whose estrogen levels are low for a reason other than menopause or occasionally for other purposes as determined by a medical professional.

Anyone who is dealing with any of the conditions listed here or who is at risk for developing postmenopausal osteoporosis might be prescribed hormone therapy in the form of Vivelle Dot.