Clinical efficacy of estradiol transdermal system in the treatment of hot flashes in postmenopausal women

Abstract

Hot flashes are among the most common symptoms of estrogen deprivation associated with menopause. Hot flashes affect quality of life in menopausal women and constitute the main indication for hormonal replacement. Treatment using estrogens with or without a progestin is highly effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. There are several estrogen formulations available for the treatment of menopausal symptoms, including oral, transdermal, intranasal, and vaginal preparations. Within the transdermal group, several preparations exist and all have been shown to be effective in the control of hot flashes. Transdermal estrogens constitute an effective treatment for menopausal hot flashes and may have additional beneficial effects compared with oral treatment, given that first-pass hepatic metabolism is avoided using the transdermal route. Transdermal estrogens should be considered as a viable treatment option for symptomatic menopausal women. When it has been decided to use the transdermal route, the woman should be informed of the benefits and side effects of each transdermal system and her preference taken into account when recommending a specific transdermal preparation.