Delestrogen 10mg/ml Inj

Manufacturer PAR Active Ingredient Estradiol Injection(es tra DYE ole) Pronunciation es-tra-DYE-ole
WARNING: Do not use this drug to prevent heart disease or dementia. A study of women taking an estrogen with a progestin showed a raised chance of heart attack, stroke, blood clot, breast cancer, and dementia. The chance of stroke, blood clot, and dementia was also raised when the estrogen was taken alone. Not all products and doses were studied. It is not known if the same effects may happen with this drug.The chance of endometrial cancer may be raised with the use of estrogen alone in patients with a uterus. Use of a progestin along with estrogen may lower the risk. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained or long-lasting vaginal bleeding.Use this drug for the shortest time needed at the lowest useful dose. Your doctor will talk with you on a regular basis to see if you need to keep taking this drug. @ COMMON USES: It is used to prevent or lower the signs of the change of life (menopause).It is used to add estrogen to the body when the ovaries have been taken out or do not work the right way.Rarely, it is used to treat breast or prostate cancers.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
🏷️
Drug Class
Estrogen
🧬
Pharmacologic Class
Estrogen receptor agonist
🀰
Pregnancy Category
Category X
βœ…
FDA Approved
Aug 1952
βš–οΈ
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

ℹ️

What is this medicine?

Delestrogen is an injectable form of estrogen, a female hormone. It is used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and to replace estrogen in women whose bodies don't produce enough, such as those with certain conditions affecting the ovaries. It works by replacing the estrogen your body is missing.
πŸ“‹

How to Use This Medicine

Proper Use of This Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is administered via injection into a muscle. If you are self-administering the injection, your doctor or nurse will provide guidance on the proper technique.

Before using, inspect the solution for any signs of cloudiness, leakage, or particles. The solution should be colorless to faint yellow; do not use it if the color changes.

Safe Disposal of Needles and Supplies

After use, dispose of needles in a designated needle/sharp disposal box. Never reuse needles or other items. When the disposal box is full, follow local regulations for proper disposal. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage and Disposal

If you need to store this medication at home, consult your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for guidance on proper storage.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to determine the best course of action.
πŸ’‘

Lifestyle & Tips

  • Do not smoke, as smoking significantly increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, especially when taking estrogens.
  • Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise to support cardiovascular health.
  • Report any unusual vaginal bleeding, breast lumps, or severe headaches immediately.
  • Discuss all medications, supplements, and herbal products with your doctor, especially St. John's Wort, which can reduce the effectiveness of Delestrogen.
πŸ’Š

Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

πŸ‘¨β€βš•οΈ

Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Dosage varies significantly by indication and individual response.

Condition-Specific Dosing:

Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms associated with Menopause: 10 mg intramuscularly (IM) every 4 weeks.
Treatment of Moderate to Severe Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy associated with Menopause: 10 mg IM every 4 weeks.
Treatment of Hypogonadism (Female): 10 mg IM every 4 weeks, or 10 mg IM every 2 weeks for 3-6 cycles, then 10-20 mg IM every 4 weeks.
Palliative Treatment of Inoperable Metastatic Prostate Cancer: 30 mg or more IM every 1 to 2 weeks (less common indication now).
πŸ‘Ά

Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: For hypogonadism, initial doses may be lower (e.g., 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg IM every 4 weeks), gradually increasing as needed for pubertal induction, typically up to adult doses.
βš•οΈ

Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but use with caution.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but use with caution.
Severe: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but use with caution. Monitor for fluid retention.
Dialysis: Considerations: Estradiol is highly protein bound and not significantly dialyzable. Use with caution, monitor for fluid retention.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: Use with caution; monitor liver function.
Moderate: Use with caution; consider lower doses and monitor liver function closely. Estrogens are extensively metabolized by the liver.
Severe: Contraindicated in severe hepatic dysfunction or disease due to impaired metabolism and increased risk of adverse effects (e.g., cholestasis, hepatic adenoma).

Pharmacology

πŸ”¬

Mechanism of Action

Estradiol is the primary estrogen secreted by the human ovary. It binds to and activates estrogen receptors (ERΞ± and ERΞ²) located in target tissues (e.g., female reproductive organs, breast, hypothalamus, pituitary, bone, liver, cardiovascular system). This binding leads to conformational changes in the receptor, allowing it to translocate to the nucleus, bind to estrogen response elements (EREs) on DNA, and regulate gene transcription, thereby mediating the physiological effects of estrogens.
πŸ“Š

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Estradiol valerate is a prodrug that is hydrolyzed to estradiol. After intramuscular injection, it provides sustained release of estradiol. Bioavailability is high for the active estradiol.
Tmax: Estradiol: Approximately 3-7 days after IM injection of estradiol valerate.
FoodEffect: Not applicable for intramuscular injection.

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 1 L/kg (for estradiol)
ProteinBinding: Highly protein bound (approximately 98%) to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin.
CnssPenetration: Limited, but estrogens do have central nervous system effects.

Elimination:

HalfLife: Estradiol: Approximately 3-7 days after IM injection of estradiol valerate (due to sustained release from the ester).
Clearance: Not readily available for IM formulation, but hepatic clearance is significant.
ExcretionRoute: Primarily renal (as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates); small amount in feces via biliary excretion.
Unchanged: <10% (of estradiol) excreted unchanged in urine.
⏱️

Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Clinical effects may be observed within days to weeks, depending on the indication.
PeakEffect: Peak plasma levels of estradiol occur approximately 3-7 days post-injection.
DurationOfAction: Approximately 3-4 weeks due to the sustained release from the valerate ester.

Safety & Warnings

⚠️

BLACK BOX WARNING

Estrogens and progestins should not be used for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or dementia. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study reported increased risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, invasive breast cancer, pulmonary emboli, and deep vein thrombosis in postmenopausal women (50-79 years of age) receiving daily conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) plus medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) compared to placebo. The WHI Memory Study (WHIMS) reported an increased risk of probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years of age or older receiving CEE plus MPA or CEE alone compared to placebo. These risks should be weighed against the benefits of estrogen therapy.
⚠️

Side Effects

Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Immediately

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of liver problems, including:
+ Dark urine
+ Tiredness
+ Decreased appetite
+ Upset stomach or stomach pain
+ Light-colored stools
+ Vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes
Signs of gallbladder problems, such as:
+ Pain in the upper right belly area, right shoulder area, or between the shoulder blades
+ Yellow skin or eyes
+ Fever with chills
+ Bloating
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
Signs of pancreatitis (pancreas problem), including:
+ Severe stomach pain
+ Severe back pain
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
Signs of high blood pressure, such as:
+ Severe headache or dizziness
+ Passing out
+ Changes in eyesight
Weakness on one side of the body
Trouble speaking or thinking
Changes in balance
Drooping on one side of the face
Blurred eyesight
Eyesight changes or loss
Bulging eyes
Changes in how contact lenses feel
Breast lump, pain, or soreness
Nipple discharge
Vaginal itching or discharge
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Depression or mood changes
Memory problems or loss
Fever
Difficulty urinating or changes in urine output
Pain while urinating

This medication may cause fluid retention, leading to swelling or weight gain. If you experience swelling, weight gain, or trouble breathing, inform your doctor.

Blood Clots and High Calcium Levels

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a blood clot, such as:
Chest pain or pressure
Coughing up blood
Shortness of breath
Swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm
Trouble speaking or swallowing

High calcium levels can occur in some people with cancer taking this medication. If you experience signs of high calcium levels, such as:
Weakness
Confusion
Fatigue
Headache
Upset stomach or vomiting
Constipation
Bone pain
contact your doctor right away.

Other Side Effects

Most people do not experience serious side effects, but some may occur. If you experience any of the following side effects, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Dizziness or headache
Hair loss
Upset stomach or vomiting
Constipation
Stomach pain or cramps
Bloating
Enlarged or tender breasts
Vaginal bleeding or spotting
Painful periods
Common cold symptoms
Nose or throat irritation
Weight gain or loss
Joint pain
Leg cramps
Changes in sex interest
Irritation at the injection site

This is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
🚨

Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Sudden severe headache or migraine
  • Sudden vision changes (e.g., partial or complete loss of vision)
  • Sudden numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
  • Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood
  • Pain, swelling, or tenderness in one leg (especially the calf)
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • New breast lump or changes in existing breast lumps
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting after menopause
πŸ“‹

Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
A history of certain health conditions, such as:
+ Bleeding disorders
+ Blood clots or an increased risk of blood clots
+ Breast cancer
+ Liver problems or liver tumors
+ Heart attack
+ Stroke
+ Tumors that are sensitive to estrogen
Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Pregnancy or potential pregnancy. Note: This medication should not be taken during pregnancy.

This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
⚠️

Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Your doctor may advise you to stop taking this drug before certain surgical procedures, and will provide guidance on when to resume taking it after the surgery or procedure.

If you anticipate being immobile for extended periods, such as during long trips, bedrest after surgery, or illness, discuss this with your doctor, as prolonged inactivity may increase your risk of developing blood clots. Additionally, if you have diabetes, it is crucial to closely monitor your blood sugar levels.

This medication may cause high blood pressure, so it is essential to have your blood pressure checked regularly, as advised by your doctor. You should also have your blood work and bone density checked as recommended by your doctor.

Regular breast exams and gynecology check-ups are vital, and you should also perform breast self-exams as instructed by your doctor. The risk of certain side effects, such as heart attack, stroke, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer, may vary depending on factors like the duration of estrogen use, whether it is taken with or without a progestin, and other individual factors. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication with your doctor.

High triglyceride levels have been associated with this medication, so inform your doctor if you have a history of elevated triglyceride levels. This drug may also cause dark skin patches on your face, so it is essential to avoid sun exposure, sunlamps, and tanning beds, and use sunscreen and protective clothing and eyewear.

This medication may affect certain laboratory tests, so inform all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this drug. Smoking can increase the risk of heart disease, so it is recommended that you do not smoke; discuss this with your doctor. Limit your alcohol consumption, and if you regularly drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit, consult with your doctor.

In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, so they may require regular growth checks; discuss this with your doctor. If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects. If you are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential risks to your baby.
πŸ†˜

Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Breast tenderness
  • Abdominal pain
  • Drowsiness/fatigue
  • Withdrawal bleeding (in females)

What to Do:

There is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Contact a poison control center or emergency medical services immediately. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control).

Drug Interactions

🚫

Contraindicated Interactions

  • Aromatase inhibitors (e.g., anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane) - concurrent use would counteract the effect of the aromatase inhibitor.
  • Fulvestrant (estrogen receptor antagonist) - concurrent use would counteract the effect of fulvestrant.
πŸ”΄

Major Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, St. John's Wort) - may decrease estrogen levels, reducing efficacy.
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, ritonavir, grapefruit juice) - may increase estrogen levels, increasing risk of adverse effects.
  • Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine) - estrogens can increase thyroid-binding globulin (TBG), potentially increasing thyroid hormone requirements.
  • Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) - estrogens may decrease the clearance of corticosteroids, leading to increased corticosteroid effects/toxicity.
🟑

Moderate Interactions

  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) - estrogens may alter the effects of anticoagulants; monitor INR/PT.
  • Hypoglycemic agents (e.g., insulin, oral antidiabetics) - estrogens may impair glucose tolerance, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic therapy.
  • Cyclosporine - estrogens may inhibit cyclosporine metabolism, increasing its levels and toxicity.
🟒

Minor Interactions

  • Not many clinically significant minor interactions reported for estradiol injection.

Monitoring

πŸ”¬

Baseline Monitoring

Complete medical history and physical examination (including blood pressure, breast exam, pelvic exam, Pap test)

Rationale: To identify contraindications, risk factors, and establish baseline health status.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Mammogram

Rationale: To screen for breast cancer, especially in women over 40 or with risk factors.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, as per screening guidelines.

Lipid profile

Rationale: Estrogens can affect lipid metabolism; establish baseline.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Liver function tests (LFTs)

Rationale: To assess hepatic function, as estrogens are metabolized by the liver.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, especially if hepatic impairment is suspected.

πŸ“Š

Routine Monitoring

Blood pressure

Frequency: Annually, or more frequently if hypertension is present.

Target: <130/80 mmHg (general target)

Action Threshold: Sustained elevation requiring intervention.

Breast examination

Frequency: Annually by a healthcare provider; monthly self-exam.

Target: Normal findings

Action Threshold: New lumps, pain, or discharge.

Pelvic examination and Pap test

Frequency: Annually, or as per screening guidelines.

Target: Normal findings

Action Threshold: Abnormal bleeding, pain, or Pap results.

Mammogram

Frequency: As per national screening guidelines (e.g., every 1-2 years for women over 40-50).

Target: Normal findings

Action Threshold: Suspicious findings requiring further investigation.

Symptoms of venous thromboembolism (VTE), stroke, myocardial infarction (MI)

Frequency: Ongoing patient education and vigilance.

Target: Absence of symptoms

Action Threshold: New onset of chest pain, shortness of breath, leg pain/swelling, sudden severe headache, vision changes, weakness/numbness.

πŸ‘οΈ

Symptom Monitoring

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Breast lumps or pain
  • Persistent headache or migraine
  • Sudden severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood (signs of pulmonary embolism)
  • Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden severe headache, sudden vision changes (signs of stroke)
  • Chest pain, discomfort, pressure, or pain radiating to arm/jaw (signs of MI)
  • Swelling, pain, or tenderness in one leg (signs of deep vein thrombosis)
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Abdominal pain, especially right upper quadrant
  • Mood changes, depression

Special Patient Groups

🀰

Pregnancy

Contraindicated during pregnancy. Estrogens are not indicated for use in pregnancy and there is no evidence of benefit from estrogen therapy during pregnancy. Exposure to estrogens during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of congenital anomalies in the fetus.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Increased risk of congenital anomalies, including cardiovascular defects and limb reduction defects, if exposed during the first trimester.
Second Trimester: Not indicated; potential for adverse effects on fetal development.
Third Trimester: Not indicated; potential for adverse effects on fetal development.
🀱

Lactation

Use is generally not recommended during lactation. Estrogens are excreted in human milk and have been shown to decrease the quantity and quality of breast milk. They may also affect the nursing infant.

Infant Risk: Low direct risk of adverse effects to the infant, but potential for decreased milk supply and altered milk composition. Monitor infant for any signs of estrogen exposure (e.g., breast budding).
πŸ‘Ά

Pediatric Use

Generally not indicated for routine pediatric use. Can be used for pubertal induction in girls with hypogonadism, but careful monitoring of bone age and growth is required. Safety and efficacy in children under 18 for other indications are not established.

πŸ‘΄

Geriatric Use

Increased risk of stroke, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and probable dementia in women 65 years of age or older. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals. Careful risk-benefit assessment is crucial.

Clinical Information

πŸ’Ž

Clinical Pearls

  • Delestrogen (estradiol valerate) is a long-acting injectable estrogen, providing sustained estradiol levels for 3-4 weeks, which can improve adherence compared to daily oral or transdermal forms.
  • Always assess for contraindications, especially history of VTE, stroke, MI, estrogen-dependent cancers, or undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding, before initiating therapy.
  • The lowest effective dose for the shortest duration should be used, especially for menopausal symptom management, to minimize risks.
  • Counsel patients extensively on the Black Box Warnings regarding cardiovascular events, breast cancer, and dementia, and the importance of reporting any concerning symptoms immediately.
  • Smoking is an absolute contraindication due to significantly increased thrombotic risk.
  • Regular follow-up, including blood pressure checks, breast exams, and mammograms, is crucial during therapy.
πŸ”„

Alternative Therapies

  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) (e.g., ospemifene for dyspareunia, bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens for vasomotor symptoms and osteoporosis)
  • Non-hormonal therapies for vasomotor symptoms (e.g., SSRIs/SNRIs like paroxetine, venlafaxine; gabapentin; clonidine)
  • Lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, stress reduction, layered clothing for hot flashes)
πŸ’°

Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: $50 - $200 per 5ml vial (10mg/ml)
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or 3 (Brand), Tier 1 (Generic)
πŸ“š

General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others, and do not take medication prescribed for someone else. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Unless instructed otherwise, do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, which your pharmacist can provide. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred, as this will aid in receiving appropriate treatment.