Understanding Vivelle Patch Discontinuation: Safety & Considerations

Vivelle is an estrogen replacement therapy medication prescribed for menopausal women to alleviate symptoms including hot flashes while preventing osteoporosis (brittle bones) in older women. The hormone therapy is delivered by a transdermal patch, meaning the medication is absorbed through the skin from an adhesive patch worn on the arm or back. Because the medication has certain side effects and can increase the risk of stroke and blood clotting in the legs, some women may wish to discontinue Vivelle treatment. Consulting with a doctor is the first step.

Instructions

• 1

  Discuss any adverse reactions or symptoms with your doctor before stopping a prescribed Vivelle hormone therapy.

• 2

  Stop using Vivelle for at least 1 week before starting another hormone replacement therapy.

• 3

  Be aware that dizziness may occur while taking Vivelle and immediately after discontinuing the therapy. Use caution when operating motor vehicles or engaging in physical activity.

• 4

  Know that estrogens such as Vivelle can increase the chance of endometriosis, which is cancer of the uterus. Accordingly, WebMD and other expert medical resources recommend a complete physical before and after following any estrogen therapy.

• 5

  Be aware that Vivelle can alter the way other medicines react in the body. Tell your doctor about any other medicines you are taking with Vivelle before discontinuing the estrogen therapy.