Estropipate: What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Estropipate

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What are the possible side effects of estropipate?

Estropipate increases the risk of developing a condition (endometrial hyperplasia) that may lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus. Taking progestins, another hormone drug, with estropipate lowers the risk of developing this condition. Therefore, if your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take together with the estrogen. Visit your doctor regularly and report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away.

Treatment with estrogens long-term may increase the risk of stroke. Because of this risk, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss your individual risks and benefits before taking an estrogen long-term. You should also talk to your doctor or healthcare provider on a regular basis (for example, every 3-6 months) about whether you should continue this treatment.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking estropipate and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• a blood clot (pain, redness, and swelling in an arm or leg, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, blurred vision, or confusion);
• a lump in a breast; or
• liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take estropipate and talk to your doctor if you experience

• decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting;
• swollen or tender breasts;
• acne or skin color changes;
• decreased sex drive;
• migraine headaches or dizziness;
• water retention (swollen hands, feet, or ankles);
• problems with wearing contact lenses;
• depression; or
• changes in your menstrual cycle or breakthrough bleeding.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

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Last updated:	November 16, 2004