Estrace vaginal cream
(Estradiol vaginal cream)
Relieves vaginal dryness due to menopause.
Our bottom line
Estrace vaginal cream (Estradiol vaginal cream) works well to treat menopausal symptoms localized to the vagina.
- Drug class: Women's health
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: No lower cost generic available
Upsides
- Side-effects are limited compared to estrogen pill since application is localized to the vagina only.
What to expect from Estrace vaginal cream, on one page
Downsides
- Method of application can be difficult or uncomfortable compared to a pill that is taken by mouth.
- It is not effective for hot flashes.
- The cream is not compatible with certain birth control methods. It can weaken latex (rubber) condoms, cervical caps, and diaphrams so avoid use within 72 hours after a dose.
- The applicator can be source of infection if not kept clean.
- Available as a brand name product only.
What to expect from Estrace vaginal cream, on one page
Estrace vaginal cream (Estradiol vaginal cream) is a synthetic hormone called estradiol, which acts very similarly to estrogen. It replaces the estrogen lost during menopause to relieve vaginal dryness, soreness, irritation, and painful sex.
- Drug class: Women's health
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: No lower cost generic available
Used for
- Vaginal dryness and inflammation
Dosage forms
- Cream
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- Pay as low as$137.96Retail priceRetail priceLearn more
- CostcoGet free coupon$139.80
- Kroger PharmacyGet free coupon$144.71
- Get free coupon$147.06
What to expect when you take Estrace vaginal cream (Estradiol vaginal cream) for Vaginal dryness and inflammation
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Vaginal discomfort
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
It can take time for a drug to start working, or for some side effects to go away.
Source: FDA product label and Iodine pharmacistsSide effect rates for Estrace vaginal cream (Estradiol vaginal cream)
Manufacturers don’t say how common these side effects are when taking Estrace vaginal cream for vaginal dryness and inflammation
- Abdominal Pain
- Headache
- Breast pain
- Vaginal discomfort
- Upper respiratory infection
- Stroke
- Blood clot
Risks and Warnings for Estrace vaginal cream (Estradiol vaginal cream)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › Using estrogen for more than one year
Unusual vaginal bleeding during menopause can be a sign of cancer in the uterus. Let your doctor know if you notice any vaginal bleeding while on Estrace vaginal cream (Estradiol vaginal cream). The risk for cancer of the uterus increases the longer you're on this medicine. Talk to your doctor about other medicines you can take to protect yourself if you are worried.
This is a black box warning. The FDA requires this warning when there is a significant risk of serious or life-threatening effects that anyone taking the drug should consider.
Common concerns from people taking Estrace vaginal cream (Estradiol vaginal cream)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?- Worth itSome hassleReviewed Estrace Vaginal Creamon 3/7/2018Orgasms were quicker and stronger than without use.68WomanWould rather not say