Vivelle Dot (called clımara ın EU) 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