Menostar estradiol 14 ug/d Patch — NDC 50419-455-04 (Billing 50419-0455-04)
This is a package of Menostar estradiol 14 ug/d Patch from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc., marketed since Jun 2004 and currently FDA-listed; retail pharmacies pay about $38.74 per unit (NADAC). It is this product's only package size.
NDC database record
One package, one record: these facts belong to NDC 50419-455-04 alone.
- Record
- FDA NDC Directory package listing · Human prescription drug
- Code segments
- 50419 labeler · 455 product · 04 package
- Package marketed since
- Jun 8, 2004
- Sample package
- No — commercial package
- Listing certified through
- Dec 31, 2027
- Barcode (UPC-A, from the NDC)
- 3 5041945504 6
- Medicaid fills, this package
- 397 prescriptions in the last four reported quarters
- FDA record last changed
- Jul 24, 2026
Other active recalls for Estradiol (different manufacturers) — 4 · tap to view
Identity & classification
Regulatory identifiers FDA, NLM and CMS codes for this package
Drug-database identifiers Medi-Span GPI and First Databank GCN / HICL / AHFS classification
- GSN (GCN sequence number): 054714
- GCN: 22759
- GPI-14 (Medi-Span): 24000035008805
- HICL (First Databank): 001421
- AHFS class code: 68:16.04.00
- RxCUI (RxNorm): 476545
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- RxNorm (NLM RxNav) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- Medi-Span GPI (licensed)
- First Databank (licensed) · refreshed Oct 1, 2026
RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Radioactive Diagnostic Agent class.
Where does this data come from?
- RxClass (NLM) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Clinical
Transdermal estradiol (Climara®, Minivelle®, Vivelle-Dot®) is used to treat hot flashes (hot flushes; sudden feelings of mild or intense body heat) in women who are experiencing menopause (change of life; the end of monthly menstrual periods). Transdermal estradiol (Climara®, Vivelle-Dot®) is also used to treat vaginal dryness, itching, and burning in women who are experiencing menopause. Transdermal estradiol (Climara®, Menostar®, Minivelle®, Vivelle-Dot®) is also used to prevent osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily) in women who are experiencing...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- It's an estrogen used mainly for menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Some patches are also used for low estrogen from ovarian problems or to prevent osteoporos...
- That depends on the form. Patches go on the skin once or twice a week depending on the brand, and the injection goes into a muscle. Use the lowest dose that works for the shortest...
- Headache, breast tenderness, spotting or irregular bleeding, cold-like symptoms and skin irritation where a patch sits are the most common. Tell your doctor if they bother you or d...
- Get urgent help for chest pain, sudden weakness or trouble speaking, a swollen painful leg, sudden shortness of breath or sudden vision changes. These could be a stroke or blood cl...
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Estradiol — tap one for details:
Estradiol may be associated with lower levels of 5 nutrients — worth a chat with your pharmacist, not a cause for alarm.
Where does this data come from?
- MedlinePlus (NLM) · refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per ea | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | $38.740 | $154.96 / 4 patch |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $40.35 | $161.39 / 4 patch |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $38.70 | $154.80 / 4 patch |
Where does this data come from?
- CMS NADAC weekly file · file of Sep 30, 2026
- CMS ASP pricing files · refreshed Sep 20, 2026
- CMS Medicaid State Drug Utilization Data · through Q1 2026
- CMS Part D plan pricing files · refreshed Sep 24, 2026
- VA National Acquisition Center price file
Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Marketing end | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50419-0455-04 You're viewing this Main listing | 4 PATCH in 1 CARTON / 7 d in 1 PATCH | 2004-06-08 | — | Active |
Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Menostar 14 ug/dthis 50419-0455-04 | Bayer | 4 patches | $38.740 | AB2 | Availability likely | — |
| estradiol .014 mg/d 68382-0323-04 | Zydus | 4 patches | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| estradiol .014 mg/d 70771-1400-04 | Zydus | 4 patches | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
- CMS NADAC weekly file · file of Sep 30, 2026
Availability & generic status
FDA-approved generic versions are listed, and recent pricing/market data suggests they may be available — see Therapeutic equivalents.
Where does this data come from?
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Oct 3, 2026
Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
Where does this data come from?
IACT rows and label-wide narrative are kept separate; availability and product-level specificity depend on the submitted label.- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
Inactive ingredient FAQ
Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Manufacturer & labeler
More NDCs from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. labeler code 50419
- Mirena Levonorgestrel 52 mg Intrauterine Device NDC 50419-423-01
- Kyleena Levonorgestrel 19.5 mg Intrauterine Device NDC 50419-424-01
- Climara Estradiol .05 mg/d Patch NDC 50419-451-04
- Climara Estradiol .1 mg/d Patch NDC 50419-452-04
- Climara Estradiol .075 mg/d Patch NDC 50419-453-04
- Climara Estradiol .025 mg/d Patch NDC 50419-454-04
- Climara Estradiol .0375 mg/d Patch NDC 50419-456-04
- Climara Estradiol .06 mg/d Patch NDC 50419-459-04
- Lynkuet elinzanetant 60 mg Capsule NDC 50419-475-05
- Angeliq drospirenone and estradiol .5 mg; .25 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 50419-482-03
- Angeliq drospirenone and estradiol 1 mg; .5 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 50419-483-03
- Nexavar sorafenib 200 mg Tablet, Film Coated NDC 50419-488-58
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- Drugs@FDA
Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🚨 Boxed Warning ▾
WARNING: ENDOMETRIAL CANCER, CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS, PROBABLE DEMENTIA and BREAST CANCER Estrogen-Alone Therapy Endometrial Cancer There is an increased risk of endometrial cancer in a woman with a uterus who uses unopposed estrogens. Adding a progestogen to estrogen therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, which may be a precursor to endometrial cancer. Perform adequate diagnostic measures, including directed or random endometrial sampling when indicated to rule out malignancy in postmenopausal women with undiagnosed, persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .
Cardiovascular Disorders and Probable Dementia The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) estrogen-alone substudy reported increased risks of stroke and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age) during 7.1 years of treatment with daily oral conjugated estrogens (CE) [0.625 mg]-alone, relative to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , and Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . The WHI Memory Study (WHIMS) estrogen-alone ancillary study of WHI reported an increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years of age and older during 5.2 years of treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone, relative to placebo.
It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , Use in Specific Populations (8.5) , and Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Do not use estrogen-alone therapy for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or dementia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.2 , 14.3) ] . Only daily oral 0.625 mg CE was studied in the estrogen-alone substudy of the WHI.
Therefore, the relevance of the WHI findings regarding adverse cardiovascular events and dementia to lower CE doses, other routes of administration, or other estrogen-alone products is not known. Without such data, it is not possible to definitively exclude these risks or determine the extent of these risks for other products. Discuss with your patient the benefits and risks of estrogen-alone therapy, taking into account her individual risk profile.
Prescribe estrogens with or without progestogens at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Estrogen Plus Progestin Therapy Cardiovascular Disorders and Probable Dementia The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported increased risks of DVT, pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke and myocardial infarction (MI) in postmenopausal women (50 to 79 years of age) during 5.6 years of treatment with daily oral CE (0.625 mg) combined with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) [2.5 mg], relative to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , and Clinical Studies (14.2) ] .
The WHIMS estrogen plus progestin ancillary study of the WHI reported an increased risk of developing probable dementia in postmenopausal women 65 years of age and older during 4 years of treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) combined with MPA (2.5 mg), relative to placebo. It is unknown whether this finding applies to younger postmenopausal women [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , Use in Specific Populations (8.5) , and Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Do not use estrogen plus progestogen therapy for the prevention of cardiovascular disease or dementia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.2 , 14.3) ] .
Breast Cancer The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy also demonstrated an increased risk of invasive breast cancer [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , and Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Only daily oral 0.625 mg CE and 2.5 mg MPA were studied in the estrogen plus progestin substudy of the WHI. Therefore, the relevance of the WHI findings regarding adverse cardiovascular events, dementia and breast cancer to lower CE plus other MPA doses, other routes of administration, or other estrogen plus progestogen produc… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Menostar is indicated for: Menostar is an estrogen indicated for: Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis ( 1.1 ) Limitations of Use When prescribing solely for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, first consider the use of non-estrogen medications. Consider estrogen therapy only for women at significant risk of osteoporosis.
1.1Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Limitation of Use When prescribing solely for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis, first consider the use of non-estrogen medications. Consider estrogen therapy only for women at significant risk of osteoporosis.
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Generally, when estrogen is prescribed for a postmenopausal woman with a uterus, consider addition of a progestogen to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. Generally a woman without a uterus does not need to take a progestogen in addition to her estrogen therapy. In some cases, however, hysterectomized women who have a history of endometriosis may need a progestogen [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2 , 5.14) ].
Use estrogen-alone, or in combination with a progestogen at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Reevaluate postmenopausal women periodically as clinically appropriate to determine if treatment is still necessary. Apply Menostar once-weekly to the lower abdomen.
Do not apply Menostar to the breast. ( 2.1 )
2.1Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Apply Menostar 14 mcg per day to a clean dry area of the lower abdomen once weekly.
2.2Application of the Menostar Transdermal System Site Selection Place the adhesive side of Menostar on a clean, dry area of the lower abdomen or the upper quadrant of the buttock. Do not apply Menostar to or near the breasts. Rotate the sites of application with an interval of at least 1-week allowed between applications to a same site.
Select an area that is not oily, damaged, or irritated. Avoid the waistline, since tight clothing may rub the transdermal system off. Avoid application to areas where sitting would dislodge Menostar.
Application Apply Menostar immediately after opening the pouch and removing the protective liner. Press Menostar firmly in place with the fingers for at least 10 seconds, making sure there is good contact, especially around the edges. If the system lifts, apply pressure to maintain adhesion.
In the event that a system falls off, reapply it to a different location. If the old system cannot be reapplied, apply a new system for the remainder of the 7-day dosing interval. Wear only one system at any one time during the 7-day dosing interval.
Swimming, bathing, or using a sauna while using Menostar has not been studied, and these activities may decrease the adhesion of the system and the delivery of estradiol.
2.3Removal of the Menostar Transdermal System Remove Menostar carefully and slowly to avoid irritation of the skin. If any adhesive remains on the skin after removal of Menostar, allow the area to dry for 15 minutes and then gently rub the area with an oil-based cream or lotion to remove the adhesive residue. Used patches still contain some active hormones. Carefully fold each patch in half so that it sticks to itself before throwing it away.
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Menostar (estradiol transdermal system) 14 mcg per day - each 3.25 cm 2 system contains 1 mg of estradiol. Transdermal system: 14 mcg per day ( 3 )
⛔ Contraindications ▾
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Menostar is contraindicated in women with any of the following conditions: Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Breast cancer or history of breast cancer [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Estrogen-dependent neoplasia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Active DVT, PE, or a history of these conditions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Active arterial thromboembolic disease (for example, stroke or MI), or a history of these conditions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Known anaphylactic reaction, or angioedema, or hypersensitivity to Menostar Hepatic impairment or disease Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding ( 4 , 5.2 )) Breast cancer or a history of breast cancer ( 4 , 5.2 ) Estrogen-dependent neoplasia ( 4 , 5.2 ) Active DVT, PE or a history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) Active arterial thromboembolic disease (for example, stroke or MI), or a history of these conditions ( 4 , 5.1 ) Known anaphylactic reaction, or angioedema, or hypersensitivity to Menostar ( 4 ) Hepatic impairment or disease ( 4 , 5.10 ) Protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders ( 4 )
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Estrogens increase the risk of gallbladder disease ( 5.4 ) Discontinue estrogens if severe hypercalcemia, loss of vision, severe hypertriglyceridemia or cholestatic jaundice occurs ( 5.5 , 5.6 , 5.9 , 5.10 ) Monitor thyroid function in women on thyroid hormone replacement therapy ( 5.11 , 5.18 )
5.1Cardiovascular Disorders Increased risks of stroke and DVT are reported with estrogen-alone therapy. Increased risks of PE, DVT, stroke and MI are reported with estrogen plus progestin therapy. Immediately discontinue estrogen with or without progestogen therapy if any of these occur or are suspected.
Manage appropriately any risk factors for arterial vascular disease (for example, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) (for example, personal history or family history of VTE, obesity, and systemic lupus erythematosus). Stroke The WHI estrogen-alone substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (45 versus 33 strokes per 10,000 women-years, respectively).
The increase in risk was demonstrated in year 1 and persisted [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Immediately discontinue estrogen-alone therapy if a stroke occurs or is suspected. Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest no increased risk of stroke for those women receiving CE (0.625 mg)-alone versus those receiving placebo (18 versus 21 per 10,000 women-years).
1 The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 strokes per 10,000 women years, respectively) [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . The increase in risk was demonstrated after the first year and persisted. 1 Immediately discontinue estrogen plus progestogen therapy if a stroke occurs or is suspected.
Coronary Heart Disease The WHI estrogen-alone substudy reported no overall effect on coronary heart disease (CHD) events (defined as nonfatal MI, silent MI, or CHD death) in women receiving estrogen-alone compared to placebo 2 [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age, who were less than 10 years since menopause, suggest a reduction (not statistically significant) of CHD events in those women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to placebo (8 versus 16 per 10,000 women-years).
1 The WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy reported an increased risk (not statistically significant) of CHD events in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (41 versus 34 per 10,000 women-years). 1 An increase in relative risk was demonstrated in year 1, and a trend toward decreasing relative risk was reported in years 2 through 5 [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . In postmenopausal women with documented heart disease (n = 2,763), average 66.7 years of age, in a controlled clinical trial of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study; HERS), treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) demonstrated no cardiovascular benefit.
During an average follow-up of 4.1 years, treatment with CE plus MPA did not reduce the overall rate of CHD events in postmenopausal women with established CHD. There were more CHD events in the CE plus MPA-treated group than in the placebo group in year 1, but not during the subsequent years. Two thousand three hundred twenty-one (2,321) women from the original HERS trial agreed to participate in an open label extension of HERS, HERS II.
Average follow-up in HERS II was an additional 2.7 years, for a total of 6.8 years overall. Rates of CHD events were comparable among women in the CE plus MPA group and the placebo gr… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in the labeling: Cardiovascular Disorders [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Malignant Neoplasms [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] The most common adverse reactions (≥ 10 percent) with Menostar are: upper respiratory tract infections, pain, arthralgia, and leukorrhea. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-888-84-BAYER (1-888-842-2937) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch
6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Menostar was investigated in a 2-year double blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study in the United States. A total of 417 postmenopausal women (208 women on Menostar, 209 on placebo) 60 to 80 years old, with an intact uterus were enrolled in the study.
At 24 months, 189 women remained in the Menostar group and 186 remained in the placebo group. Adverse events with an incidence of ≥5 percent in the Menostar 14 mcg group and greater than those reported in the placebo group are listed in Table 1. Table 1: Summary of Most Frequently Reported Treatment Emergent Adverse Reactions (≥5 percent) by Treatment Groups Body System Adverse Reactions Menostar 14 mcg/day (N=208) Placebo (N=209) Body as a Whole 95 (46%) 100 (48%) Abdominal Pain 17 (8%) 17 (8%) Accidental Injury 29 (14%) 23 (11%) Infection 11 (5%) 10 (5%) Pain 26 (13%) 26 (12%) Cardiovascular 20 (10%) 19 (9%) Digestive System 52 (25%) 44 (21%) Constipation 11 (5%) 6 (3%) Dyspepsia 11 (5%) 9 (4%) Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders 25 (12%) 22 (11%) Musculoskeletal System 54 (26%) 51 (24%) Arthralgia 24 (12%) 13 (6%) Arthritis 11 (5%) 15 (7%) Myalgia 10 (5%) 6 (3%) Nervous System 30 (14%) 23 (11%) Dizziness 11 (5%) 6 (3%) Respiratory System 62 (30%) 67 (32%) Bronchitis 12 (6%) 9 (4%) Upper Respiratory Infection 33 (16%) 35 (17%) Skin and Appendages 50 (24%) 54 (26%) Application Site Reaction 18 (9%) 18 (9%) Breast Pain 10 (5%) 8 (4%) Urogenital System 66 (32%) 40 (19%) Cervical Polyps 13 (6%) 4 (2%) Leukorrhea 22 (11%) 3 (1%)
6.2Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Climara and Menostar. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Genitourinary System Changes in bleeding pattern, pelvic pain Breast Breast cancer, breast pain, breast tenderness Cardiovascular Changes in blood pressure, palpitations, hot flashes Gastrointestinal Vomiting, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, nausea Skin Alopecia, hyperhidrosis, night sweats, urticaria, rash Eyes Visual disturbances, contact lens intolerance Central Nervous System Depression, migraine, paresthesia, dizziness, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, nervousness, insomnia, headache Miscellaneous Edema, fatigue, menopausal symptoms, weight increased, application site reaction, anaphylactic reactions
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that estrogens are metabolized partially by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Therefore, inducers or inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism. Inducers of CYP3A4 such as St.
John's wort (hypericum perforatum) preparations, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and rifampin may reduce plasma concentrations of estrogens, possibly resulting in a decrease in therapeutic effects and/or changes in the uterine bleeding profile. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir and grapefruit juice may increase plasma concentrations of estrogens and may result in adverse reactions. Inducers and/or inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism and decrease or increase the estrogen plasma concentration.
( 7 )
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Menostar is not indicated for use in pregnancy. There are no data with the use of Menostar in pregnant women, however, epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or non-genital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb reduction defects) following exposure to combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogens and progestins) before conception or during early pregnancy. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
8.2Lactation Risk Summary Estrogens are present in human milk and can reduce milk production in breast-feeding females. This reduction can occur at any time but is less likely to occur once breast-feeding is well-established. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for Menostar and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from Menostar or from the underlying maternal condition.
8.4Pediatric Use Menostar is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population.
8.5Geriatric Use A total of 417 postmenopausal women 61 to 79 years old, with an intact uterus, participated in the osteoporosis trial. More than 50 percent of women receiving study drug, were 65 years of age or older. Efficacy in older (≥ 65 years of age) and younger (<65 years of age) postmenopausal women in the osteoporosis treatment trial was comparable both at 12 and 24 months.
Safety in older (≥ 65 years of age) and younger (<65 years of age) postmenopausal women in the osteoporosis treatment trial was also comparable throughout the study. The Women's Health Initiative Studies In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg]-alone versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of stroke in women greater than 65 years of age [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] plus MPA [2.5 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of nonfatal stroke and invasive breast cancer in women greater than 65 years of age [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] .
The Women's Health Initiative Memory Study In the WHIMS ancillary studies of postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age, there was an increased risk of developing probable dementia in women receiving estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin when compared to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women 8 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.3) ].
🤰 Pregnancy ▾
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Menostar is not indicated for use in pregnancy. There are no data with the use of Menostar in pregnant women, however, epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses have not found an increased risk of genital or non-genital birth defects (including cardiac anomalies and limb reduction defects) following exposure to combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogens and progestins) before conception or during early pregnancy. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
🧒 Pediatric Use ▾
8.4Pediatric Use Menostar is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population.
🧓 Geriatric Use ▾
8.5Geriatric Use A total of 417 postmenopausal women 61 to 79 years old, with an intact uterus, participated in the osteoporosis trial. More than 50 percent of women receiving study drug, were 65 years of age or older. Efficacy in older (≥ 65 years of age) and younger (<65 years of age) postmenopausal women in the osteoporosis treatment trial was comparable both at 12 and 24 months.
Safety in older (≥ 65 years of age) and younger (<65 years of age) postmenopausal women in the osteoporosis treatment trial was also comparable throughout the study. The Women's Health Initiative Studies In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg]-alone versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of stroke in women greater than 65 years of age [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] plus MPA [2.5 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of nonfatal stroke and invasive breast cancer in women greater than 65 years of age [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] .
The Women's Health Initiative Memory Study In the WHIMS ancillary studies of postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age, there was an increased risk of developing probable dementia in women receiving estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin when compared to placebo [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women 8 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.3) ].
🆘 Overdosage ▾
10 OVERDOSAGE Overdosage of estrogen may cause nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, drowsiness and fatigue, and withdrawal bleeding in women. Treatment of overdose consists of discontinuation of Menostar therapy with institution of appropriate symptomatic care.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism of Action Endogenous estrogens are largely responsible for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. Although circulating estrogens exist in a dynamic equilibrium of metabolic interconversions, estradiol is the principal intracellular human estrogen and is substantially more potent than its metabolites, estrone and estriol, at the receptor level. The primary source of estrogen in normally cycling adult women is the ovarian follicle, which secretes 70 to 500 mcg of estradiol daily, depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle.
After menopause, most endogenous estrogen is produced by conversion of androstenedione, which is secreted by the adrenal cortex, to estrone in the peripheral tissues. Thus, estrone and the sulfate conjugated form, estrone sulfate, are the most abundant circulating estrogens in postmenopausal women. Estrogens act through binding to nuclear receptors in estrogen-responsive tissues.
To date, two estrogen receptors have been identified. These vary in proportion from tissue to tissue. Circulating estrogens modulate the pituitary secretion of the gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), through a negative feedback mechanism.
Estrogens act to reduce the elevated levels of these hormones seen in postmenopausal women.
12.2Pharmacodynamics Generally, a serum estrogen concentration does not predict an individual woman's therapeutic response to Menostar nor her risk for adverse outcomes. Likewise, exposure comparisons across different estrogen products to infer efficacy or safety for the individual woman may not be valid.
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption The bioavailability of estradiol following application of a Menostar transdermal system, relative to that of a transdermal system delivering 25 mcg per day, was investigated in 18 healthy postmenopausal women, mean age 66 years (range 60 to 80 years). The mean serum estradiol concentrations upon administration of the two patches to the lower abdomen are shown in Figure 1. Transdermal administration of Menostar produced geometric mean serum concentration (C avg ) of estradiol of 13.7 pg/mL.
No patches failed to adhere during the one week application period of both transdermal systems. Following application of the Menostar transdermal system to the abdomen, it is estimated to provide an average nominal in-vivo daily delivery of 14 mcg estradiol per day. The Menostar transdermal delivery system continuously releases estradiol which is transported across intact skin leading to sustained circulating levels of estradiol during a 7-day treatment period.
The systemic availability of estradiol after transdermal administration is about 20 times higher than that after oral administration. This difference is due to the absence of first pass metabolism when estradiol is given by the transdermal route. Figure 1: Mean Uncorrected Serum 17ß-Estradiol Concentrations vs.
Time Profile Following Application of the Menostar Transdermal System and the Climara ® 6.5 cm 2 Transdermal System Table 2 provides a summary of estradiol pharmacokinetic parameters determined during evaluation of the Menostar transdermal system using baseline uncorrected serum concentrations. Table 2: Summary of Estradiol Pharmacokinetic Parameters (Abdomen Application) Product Estradiol Daily Delivery Rate, mcg/day AUC (0-t last ) pg∙h/mL C max pg/mL C avg pg/mL T max h C min pg/mL Pharmacokinetic parameters are expressed in geometric means except for the T max which represents the median estimate and the C min which is expressed as the arithmetic mean.
The estimated estradiol daily delivery rate for Climara 6.5 cm 2 is quoted from the Climara labeling. Menostar 14 2296 20.6 13.7 42
12.6Climara 6.5 cm 2 25 4151 37.2 24.7 42
20.4Distribution The distribution of exogenous estrogens is similar to that of endogenous estrogens. Estrogens are widely distributed in the body and a… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🧬 Mechanism of Action ▾
12.1Mechanism of Action Endogenous estrogens are largely responsible for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. Although circulating estrogens exist in a dynamic equilibrium of metabolic interconversions, estradiol is the principal intracellular human estrogen and is substantially more potent than its metabolites, estrone and estriol, at the receptor level. The primary source of estrogen in normally cycling adult women is the ovarian follicle, which secretes 70 to 500 mcg of estradiol daily, depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle.
After menopause, most endogenous estrogen is produced by conversion of androstenedione, which is secreted by the adrenal cortex, to estrone in the peripheral tissues. Thus, estrone and the sulfate conjugated form, estrone sulfate, are the most abundant circulating estrogens in postmenopausal women. Estrogens act through binding to nuclear receptors in estrogen-responsive tissues.
To date, two estrogen receptors have been identified. These vary in proportion from tissue to tissue. Circulating estrogens modulate the pituitary secretion of the gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), through a negative feedback mechanism.
Estrogens act to reduce the elevated levels of these hormones seen in postmenopausal women.
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
16.1How Supplied Menostar (estradiol transdermal system), 14 mcg per day — each 3.25 cm 2 system contains 1 mg of estradiol USP Individual Carton of 4 systems NDC 50419-455-04
16.2Storage and Handling Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Do not store above 86°F (30°C). Do not store unpouched.
Apply immediately upon removal from the protective pouch. Used transdermal systems still contain active hormone. To discard, fold the sticky side of the transdermal system together, place it in a child-proof container, and place this container in the trash.
Used transdermal systems should not be flushed in the toilet.
📦 Storage and Handling ▾
16.2Storage and Handling Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Do not store above 86°F (30°C). Do not store unpouched.
Apply immediately upon removal from the protective pouch. Used transdermal systems still contain active hormone. To discard, fold the sticky side of the transdermal system together, place it in a child-proof container, and place this container in the trash.
Used transdermal systems should not be flushed in the toilet.
📋 Description ▾
11 DESCRIPTION Menostar (estradiol transdermal system) is designed to provide nominal in vivo delivery of 14 mcg of estradiol per day continuously upon application to intact skin. The period of use is 7 days. The transdermal system has a contact surface area of 3.25 cm 2 , and contains 1 mg of estradiol USP.
Estradiol USP is a white, crystalline powder, chemically described as estra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3, 17ß-diol. It has an empirical formula of C 18 H 24 O 2 and molecular weight of 272.38. The structural formula is: The Menostar transdermal system comprises three layers.
Proceeding from the visible surface toward the surface attached to the skin, these layers are: A translucent polyethylene film. An acrylate adhesive matrix containing estradiol USP. A protective liner of siliconized or fluoropolymer-coated polyester film is attached to the adhesive surface and must be removed before the transdermal system can be used.
The active component of the transdermal system is estradiol. The remaining components of the transdermal system (acrylate copolymer adhesive, fatty acid esters, and polyethylene backing) are pharmacologically inactive. Chemical Structure Chemical Structure
💬 Information for Patients ▾
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Advise women to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information and Instructions for Use). Vaginal Bleeding Inform postmenopausal women to report any vaginal bleeding to their healthcare provider as soon as possible [see Warning and Precautions (5.2) ]. Possible Serious Adverse Reactions with Estrogen-Alone Therapy Inform postmenopausal women of possible serious adverse reactions of estrogen-alone therapy including Cardiovascular Disorders, Malignant Neoplasms, and Probable Dementia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.2 , 5.3) ].
Possible Common Adverse Reactions with Estrogen-Alone Therapy Inform postmenopausal women of possible less serious but common adverse reactions of estrogen-alone therapy such as headache, breast pain and tenderness, nausea and vomiting.
🧬 Pharmacokinetics ▾
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption The bioavailability of estradiol following application of a Menostar transdermal system, relative to that of a transdermal system delivering 25 mcg per day, was investigated in 18 healthy postmenopausal women, mean age 66 years (range 60 to 80 years). The mean serum estradiol concentrations upon administration of the two patches to the lower abdomen are shown in Figure 1. Transdermal administration of Menostar produced geometric mean serum concentration (C avg ) of estradiol of 13.7 pg/mL.
No patches failed to adhere during the one week application period of both transdermal systems. Following application of the Menostar transdermal system to the abdomen, it is estimated to provide an average nominal in-vivo daily delivery of 14 mcg estradiol per day. The Menostar transdermal delivery system continuously releases estradiol which is transported across intact skin leading to sustained circulating levels of estradiol during a 7-day treatment period.
The systemic availability of estradiol after transdermal administration is about 20 times higher than that after oral administration. This difference is due to the absence of first pass metabolism when estradiol is given by the transdermal route. Figure 1: Mean Uncorrected Serum 17ß-Estradiol Concentrations vs.
Time Profile Following Application of the Menostar Transdermal System and the Climara ® 6.5 cm 2 Transdermal System Table 2 provides a summary of estradiol pharmacokinetic parameters determined during evaluation of the Menostar transdermal system using baseline uncorrected serum concentrations. Table 2: Summary of Estradiol Pharmacokinetic Parameters (Abdomen Application) Product Estradiol Daily Delivery Rate, mcg/day AUC (0-t last ) pg∙h/mL C max pg/mL C avg pg/mL T max h C min pg/mL Pharmacokinetic parameters are expressed in geometric means except for the T max which represents the median estimate and the C min which is expressed as the arithmetic mean.
The estimated estradiol daily delivery rate for Climara 6.5 cm 2 is quoted from the Climara labeling. Menostar 14 2296 20.6 13.7 42
12.6Climara 6.5 cm 2 25 4151 37.2 24.7 42
20.4Distribution The distribution of exogenous estrogens is similar to that of endogenous estrogens. Estrogens are widely distributed in the body and are generally found in higher concentrations in the sex hormone target organs. Estrogens circulate in the blood largely bound to SHBG and albumin.
In the clinical study with 208 patients on Menostar, SHBG concentration (mean ± SD) remained essentially unchanged over the 2 year period (baseline 45.1 ± 20.1 nmol/L, 24-month visit 46.4 ± 20.9 nmol/L). Metabolism Exogenous estrogens are metabolized in the same manner as endogenous estrogens. Circulating estrogens exist in a dynamic equilibrium of metabolic interconversions.
These transformations take place mainly in the liver. Estradiol is converted reversibly to estrone, and both can be converted to estriol, which is a major urinary metabolite. Estrogens also undergo enterohepatic recirculation via sulfate and glucuronide conjugation in the liver, biliary secretion of conjugates into the intestine, and hydrolysis in the intestine followed by reabsorption.
In postmenopausal women, a significant proportion of the circulating estrogens exist as sulfate conjugates, especially estrone sulfate, which serves as a circulating reservoir for the formation of more active estrogens. Excretion Estradiol, estrone, and estriol are excreted in the urine along with glucuronide and sulfate conjugates. Adhesion In a Menostar transdermal system pharmacokinetic study with 18 postmenopausal women, no patches failed to adhere during the one-week application period.
Figure 1
🧬 Pharmacodynamics ▾
12.2Pharmacodynamics Generally, a serum estrogen concentration does not predict an individual woman's therapeutic response to Menostar nor her risk for adverse outcomes. Likewise, exposure comparisons across different estrogen products to infer efficacy or safety for the individual woman may not be valid.
🔬 Clinical Studies ▾
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
14.1Effects on Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women The efficacy of Menostar in the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis was investigated in a 2-year double blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study in the United States. A total of 417 postmenopausal women, 60 to 80 years of age, with an intact uterus were enrolled in the study. All participants received supplemental calcium and vitamin D.
At the lumbar spine Menostar increased BMD by 2.3 percent after 1 year and 3 percent after 2 years compared with a 0.5 percent increase after 1 and 2 years of treatment with placebo. At the hip Menostar increased BMD by 0.9 percent after one year and 0.84 percent after two years compared with a mean decrease of 0.22 percent after 1 year and 0.71 percent after 2 years of placebo treatment. The changes in BMD from baseline were statistically significantly (p <0.001) greater during treatment with Menostar than during treatment with placebo for both the spine and hip after 1 and 2 years (Table 3).
Table 3: Mean Percent BMD Change from Baseline in Lumbar Spine and Total Hip (Full Analysis Set) Lumbar spine Total hip Time points Menostar Placebo p-value Time points Menostar Placebo p-value N N = total number of patients. = 208 N = 209 N = 208 N = 209 n n = number of patients with data available for each variable. = 189 n = 186 n = 189 n =184 12-month 12-month Endpoint +2.29 +0.51 < 0.001 Endpoint +0.90 -0.22 < 0.001 n = 189 n = 186 n = 189 n = 185 24-month 24-month Endpoint +2.99 +0.54 < 0.001 Endpoint +0.84 -0.71 < 0.001 The BMD data of the study were analyzed according to baseline estradiol levels of the patients.
Overall, estimated treatment effects on lumbar spine and total hip BMD after 2 years were approximately twice as large in the subgroup with baseline estradiol levels < 5 pg/mL than in the subgroup with baseline estradiol levels ≥ 5 pg/mL (Table 4). Table 4: Mean Percent Change in Lumbar Spine and Total Hip BMD at 24 months by Subgroups of Baseline Estradiol Level (< 5 pg/mL, 5 pg/mL) Lumbar spine Total hip Baseline estradiol levels Menostar Placebo Treatment difference Menostar Placebo Treatment difference < 5 pg/mL n n = number of patients with data available for each variable. = 101 n = 97 n = 101 n = 96 +3.50 +0.29 3.21 +1.04 -1.09 2.13 (p < 0.001) (p < 0.001) ≥ 5 pg/mL n = 88 n = 89 n = 88 n = 89 +2.40 +0.81 1.59 +0.61 -0.31 0.92 (p = 0.002) (p = 0.045)
14.2Women's Health Initiative Studies The WHI enrolled approximately 27,000 predominantly healthy postmenopausal women in two substudies to assess the risks and benefits of daily oral CE (0.625 mg)-alone or in combination with MPA (2.5 mg) compared to placebo in the prevention of certain chronic diseases. The primary endpoint was the incidence of CHD (defined as nonfatal MI, silent MI and CHD death), with invasive breast cancer as the primary adverse outcome. A "global index" included the earliest occurrence of CHD, invasive breast cancer, stroke, PE, endometrial cancer (only in the CE plus MPA substudy), colorectal cancer, hip fracture, or death due to other causes.
These substudies did not evaluate the effects of CE-alone or CE plus MPA on menopausal symptoms. WHI Estrogen-Alone Substudy The WHI estrogen-alone substudy was stopped early because an increased risk of stroke was observed, and it was deemed that no further information would be obtained regarding the risk and benefits of estrogen-alone in predetermined primary endpoints. Results of the estrogen-alone substudy, which included 10,739 women (average 63 years of age, range 50 to 79: 75.3 percent White, 15.1 percent Black, 6.1 percent Hispanic, 3.6 percent Other) after an average follow-up of 7.1 years, are presented in Table 5.
Table 5: Relative and Absolute Risk Seen in the Estrogen-Alone Substudy of WHI Adapted from numerous WHI publications. WHI publications can be viewed at www.nhlbi.nih.gov/whi. Event Nominal confidence intervals unadjusted for multiple looks and multiple comparis… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🧪 Nonclinical Toxicology ▾
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term continuous administration of natural and synthetic estrogens in certain animal species increases the frequency of carcinomas of the breast, uterus, cervix, vagina, testis, and liver.
📄 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility ▾
13.1Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term continuous administration of natural and synthetic estrogens in certain animal species increases the frequency of carcinomas of the breast, uterus, cervix, vagina, testis, and liver.
📚 References ▾
15 REFERENCES Rossouw JE, et al. Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease by Age and Years Since Menopause. JAMA.
2007;297:1465–1477. Hsia J, et al. Conjugated Equine Estrogens and Coronary Heart Disease.
Arch Int Med. 2006;166:357-365. Curb JD, et al.
Venous Thrombosis and Conjugated Equine Estrogen in Women Without a Uterus. Arch Int Med. 2006;166:772–780.
Cushman M, et al. Estrogen Plus Progestin and Risk of Venous Thrombosis. JAMA.
2004;292:1573–1580. Stefanick ML, et al. Effects of Conjugated Equine Estrogens on Breast Cancer and Mammography Screening in Postmenopausal Women With Hysterectomy.
JAMA. 2006;295:1647–1657. Chlebowski RT, et al.
Influence of Estrogen Plus Progestin on Breast Cancer and Mammography in Healthy Postmenopausal Women. JAMA. 2003;289:3234–3253.
Anderson GL, et al. Effects of Estrogen Plus Progestin on Gynecologic Cancers and Associated Diagnostic Procedures. JAMA.
2003;290:1739–1748. Shumaker SA, et al. Conjugated Equine Estrogens and Incidence of Probable Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment in Postmenopausal Women.
JAMA. 2004;291:2947–2958. Jackson RD, et al.
Effects of Conjugated Equine Estrogen on Risk of Fractures and BMD in Postmenopausal Women With Hysterectomy: Results From the Women's Health Initiative Randomized Trial. J Bone Miner Res. 2006;21:817–828.
Hendrix SL, et al. Effects of Conjugated Equine Estrogen on Stroke in the Women's Health Initiative. Circulation .
2006;113:2425–2434.
📄 Patient Package Insert ▾
Patient Information MENOSTAR (Mĕn-ō-stär) (estradiol transdermal system) Read this Patient Information before you start using MENOSTAR and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your menopausal symptoms or your treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about MENOSTAR (an estrogen hormone)? Using estrogen-alone may increase your chance of getting cancer of the uterus (womb). Report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away while you are using MENOSTAR.
Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus (womb). Your healthcare provider should check any unusual vaginal bleeding to find out the cause. Do not use estrogen-alone to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, or dementia (decline in brain function).
Using estrogen-alone may increase your chances of getting strokes or blood clots. Using estrogen-alone may increase your chance of getting dementia, based on a study of women age 65 years of age and older. Do not use estrogens with progestogens to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes or dementia.
Using estrogens with progestogens may increase your chances of getting heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, or blood clots. Using estrogens with progestogens may increase your chance of getting dementia, based on a study of women age 65 years of age and older. Only one estrogen-alone product and dose have been shown to increase your chances of getting strokes, blood clots, and dementia.
Only one estrogen with progestogen product and dose have been shown to increase your chances of getting heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, blood clots, and dementia. Because other products and doses have not been studied in the same way, it is not known how the use of MENOSTAR will affect your chances of these conditions. You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with MENOSTAR.
What is MENOSTAR? MENOSTAR is a prescription medicine patch (transdermal system) that contains estradiol (an estrogen hormone). What is MENOSTAR used for?
MENOSTAR is used after menopause to: Help reduce your chances of getting osteoporosis (thin weak bones) Osteoporosis from menopause is a thinning of the bones that makes them weaker and easier to break. If you use MENOSTAR only to prevent osteoporosis due to menopause, talk with your healthcare provider about whether a different treatment or medicine without estrogens might be better for you. You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with Menostar.
Who should not use MENOSTAR? Do not start using MENOSTAR if you: have unusual vaginal bleeding Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus (womb). Your healthcare provider should check any unusual vaginal bleeding to find out the cause. have been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder currently have or have had certain cancers Estrogens may increase the chance of getting certain types of cancers, including cancer of the breast or uterus (womb).
If you have or have had cancer, talk with your healthcare provider about whether you should use MENOSTAR. had a stroke or heart attack currently have or have had blood clots currently have or have had liver problems are allergic to MENOSTAR or any of the ingredients in it. See the list of ingredients in MENOSTAR at the end of this leaflet. Before you use MENOSTAR, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: have any unusual vaginal bleeding Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus (womb).
Your healthcare provider should check any unusual vaginal bleeding to find out the cause. have any other medical conditions that may become worse while you are using MENOSTAR Your healthcare provider may need to check you more carefully if you have certain conditions, such a… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
📖 Instructions for Use ▾
Instructions for Use MENOSTAR (Mĕn-ō-stär) (estradiol transdermal system) Read this Patient Information before you start using MENOSTAR and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your menopausal symptoms or your treatment.
You will need the following supplies: See Figure A Figure A Step 1: Pick the days you will change your MENOSTAR. You will need to change your patch 1 time each week or every 7 days. Step 2.
Remove the MENOSTAR patch from the pouch. Remove the patch from its protective pouch by tearing at the notch (do not use scissors). See Figure B Do not remove your patch from the protective pouch until you are ready to apply it.
Figure B Step 3. Remove the adhesive liner. See Figure C You will see that MENOSTAR is an oval shaped clear patch that is attached to a thick, hard-plastic adhesive liner and covered by a clear, plastic film.
See Figure C To apply your patch you must first remove the protective, clear plastic film that is attached to the clear thicker plastic backing. See Figure D There is a silver foil-sticker attached to the inside of the pouch. Do not remove the silver foil sticker from the pouch.
See Figure E Figure C Figure D Figure E Step 4. Placing the patch on your skin. Apply the sticky side of the patch to 1 of the areas of skin shown below.
See Figure F and Figure G Do not touch the sticky side of the patch with your fingers. Figure F Figure G Note: Avoid the waistline, since clothing and belts may cause the patch to be rubbed off. Do not apply MENOSTAR to your breasts.
Only apply MENOSTAR to skin that is clean, dry, and free of any powder, oil, or lotion. Do not apply the patch to injured, burned, or irritated skin, or areas with skin conditions (such as birth marks, tattoos, or that is very hairy). Step 5.
Press the patch firmly onto your skin. Press the patch firmly in place with your fingers for at least 10 seconds. Rub the edges of the patch to make sure that it will stick to your skin.
( See Figure H ) Figure H Note: Contact with water while you are swimming, using a sauna, bathing, or showering may cause the patch to fall off. If your patch falls off reapply it. If you cannot reapply the patch, apply a new patch to another area (See Figure F and Figure G ) and continue to follow your original application schedule.
If you stop using your MENOSTAR patch or forget to apply a new patch as scheduled, you may have spotting, or bleeding, or your symptoms may come back. Step 6: Throwing away your used patch. When it is time to change your patch, remove the old patch before you apply a new patch.
To throw away the patch, fold the sticky side of the patch together, place it in a sturdy child-proof container, and place this container in the trash. Used patches should not be flushed in the toilet. This Patient Information and Instructions for Use have been approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration.
Revised: 9/2021 © 2013, Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. All rights reserved. Manufactured for Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Whippany, NJ 07981 Figure A Figure B Figure C Figure D Figure E Figure F Figure G Figure H
📄 Recent Major Changes ▾
Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) 12/2023
📄 Package Label / Principal Display Panel ▾
PACKAGE/LABEL PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL Menostar Individual Carton NDC 50419-455-04 4 Transdermal Systems Menostar (estradiol transdermal system) 14 mcg/day Contents: Each 3.25 cm 2 system contains 1 mg estradiol USP to provide 14 mcg of estradiol per day. The inactive components are acrylate copolymer adhesive, fatty acid esters, and polyethylene backing. For Transdermal Use Only. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. Rx Only Menostar Carton