Estratest

Estrogen can cause an increase in blood pressure, so the doctor will monitor it closely. Estrogen also can raise blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, use Estratest cautiously.

Estrogen therapy occasionally causes symptoms of hormonal overload, such as breast tenderness and excessive uterine bleeding. Estrogen can also foster an increase in the size of uterine fibroids (benign tumors) and may increase the risk of mental depression.

High doses of the testosterone in Estratest can cause a woman's voice to deepen and can promote the growth of facial hair. To prevent a permanent change, the hormone must be discontinued. Inform your doctor immediately if you develop hoarseness, acne, or hair on the face. Also report any nausea, vomiting, changes in skin color, or swelling in the ankles.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Estratest

If Estratest is taken with certain other drugs, their effects may be altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Estratest with the following:

Blood thinners such as Coumadin
Insulin

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Estrogen and testosterone both can cause birth defects, and estrogen taken during pregnancy increases the child's risk of certain vaginal and cervical cancers later in life. Do not take Estratest if there's any chance that you're pregnant, and avoid it when nursing a baby.

Recommended dosage

WOMEN IN MENOPAUSE

Estratest is available in full- and half-strength tablets (Estratest H.S.). The tablets are taken cyclically (3 weeks on and 1 week off). The usual daily dosage is 1 tablet of Estratest or 1 to 2 tablets of Estratest H.S.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Estratest, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of overdose may include:
  Nausea, vaginal bleeding