Why is Climara prescribed?

Climara (Estrogen) is used to treat hot flushes (sudden strong feelings of heat and sweating) in women who are experiencing menopause ('change of life', the end of monthly menstrual periods). Some brands of estrogen are also used to treat vaginal dryness, itching, or burning, or to prevent osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily) in women who are experiencing or have experienced menopause. However, women who need a medication only to treat vaginal dryness or only to prevent osteoporosis should consider a different treatment. Some brands of estrogen are also to relieve symptoms of low estrogen in young women who do not produce enough estrogen naturally. Some brands of estrogen are also used to relieve the symptoms of certain types of breast and prostate (a male reproductive gland) cancer. Estrogen is in a class of medications called hormones. It works by replacing the estrogen that is normally produced by the body. Climara (Estrogen transdermal patches) are available for purchase in various strengths.

How is Climara most effectively taken?

Use Climara (estradiol transdermal weekly patch) as ordered by your doctor. Read all the information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• Do not take Climara (estradiol transdermal weekly patch) by mouth. Use on your skin only. Keep out of your mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
• Use Climara (estradiol transdermal weekly patch) at the same time of day.
• Put on clean, dry, healthy skin.
• Do not use on skin that has any problems.
• Do not put on the face, breast, or vagina.
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Move the patch site with each new patch. Do not put on the same site for 7 days.
• Put patch on a site without hair.
• Do not place on breast. Place below the waistline.
• Do not put the patch on the waistline.
• Do not use patches that are cut or do not look right.
• If the patch falls off, put a new one on.
• Wear only one patch at a time.
• After you take off a skin patch, be sure to fold the sticky sides of the patch to each other. Throw away used patches where children and pets cannot get to them.

Before using Climara, tell your doctor or pharmacist:

• if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other drug allergies
• if you have ever had: vaginal bleeding of unknown cause, certain cancers (such as breast cancer), blood clots, heart/liver/kidney disease, uterus problems, thyroid problems, mental/mood disorders

Do not smoke. Estrogens combined with smoking further increases your risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, especially in women older than 35.

This medication may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin. Sunlight may worsen this effect. Limit your time in the sun and take protective actions when outdoors. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. 

Pregnancy Warning:

• This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
• This medication passes into breast milk. It may reduce the quality and amount of breast milk produced. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Some side effects include but are not limited to:

• Headache
• Hair loss
• Upset stomach or vomiting
• Constipation
• Stomach cramps
• Enlarged or tender breasts
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Painful periods
• Nose or throat irritation
• Weight gain
• Joint pain
• Irritation where Climara (estradiol transdermal weekly patch) is used

Not everyone experiences side effects from this medication. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away.

Why is Climara prescribed?

Climara is used to prevent or lower the signs of menopause as well as for preventative measures against osteoporosis.

Are there any major warnings before taking Climara?

Estrogens may raise the chance of uterine cancer. Progestins may lower this chance. A warning sign for cancer of the uterus is vaginal bleeding. Report any vaginal bleeding to the doctor.

What if I forget a dose of Climara?

Put on a missed patch as soon as you think about it after taking off the old one.