CombiPatch

Special warnings about CombiPatch

Estrogen, with or without progestins, has the potential of causing clot-related disorders, including heart attack and stroke, pulmonary embolism (a clot in the lungs), and thrombophlebitis (a clot in the veins). If you have a history of deep-vein thrombosis (a clot in the legs), or of thrombosis in your family, be sure to tell your doctor. The chance of developing a clot-related problem can be reduced by using the lowest dose of estrogen that still proves effective. If a problem develops, you'll have to stop using the patch. Likewise, you should discontinue the patch and call your doctor immediately if you suffer a loss of vision, any other eye problems, or a migraine headache.

Estrogen replacement therapy increases the risk of developing cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer). The risk increases with longer use and higher doses. Combining estrogen and progestin reduces the risk of endometrial cancer caused by estrogen alone. However, this combination is not recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), since they are not at risk for endometrial cancer.

Using estrogen may also increase your chances of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and gallbladder disease.

Use estrogen with caution if you have severely low blood levels of calcium (hypocalcemia).

Tell your doctor if you've ever had liver problems, thyroid problems, or visions problems. Using estrogen could make these conditions worse. Other conditions that could worsen during estrogen therapy include asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, migraine, or the genetic disorder porphyria. Be sure your doctor is aware of any medical problems you have.

Hormone therapy occasionally causes a rise in blood pressure. If you have a blood pressure problem, use CombiPatch with caution and have your pressure checked regularly.

Hormones also tend to cause fluid retention. Use CombiPatch with caution if you have a condition that could be aggravated by excess fluid such as asthma, epilepsy, migraine headaches, heart disease, or kidney problems.