Estradiol Valerate Quick Facts

Estradiol Valerate is a synthetic estrogen introduced in the 1950’s and remains one of the most commonly prescribed forms of estradiol due to its longer half-life over other forms of estradiol.

Brand Names: Delestrogen

Primary Uses:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy for menopausal women
• Treatment of advanced androgen dependent prostate cancers

Other Uses:

• Hormone Therapy in male assigned at birth transgender and gender non-conforming individuals (Off Label Usage)

Availability:

• As an injectable (concentrations)

1. 10 mg/mL
2. 20 mg/mL
3. 40 mg/mL

• As a tablet

1. 1 mg Tablet
2. 2 mg Tablet
3. 3 mg Tablet

Contraindications:

• Allergies to any ingredients
• If you are or may be pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breast feeding
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• History of known or suspected breast or other estrogen dependent cancer
• You have the blood disease porphyria, a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clots, as well as liver problems

Side Effects:

Less serious side effects may include:

• Abnormal hair growth or loss
• Breast tenderness
• Changes in sex drive
• Cramps
• Dizziness/Headache/Lightheadedness
• Flushing
• Nausea/Stomach Bloading and Upset
• Pain or swelling at the injection site
• Reduced tolerance of carbohydrates
• Weight changes
• Vaginal infection

More serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Breast lumps
• Calf pain or tenderness
• Changes of vision or speech
• Chest pain/Numbness in an arm or leg
• Confusion
• Coughing blood
• Significant mental or mood changes (depression, memory loss)
• Pain, swelling or tenderness in the stomach
• Severe headache
• Dizziness, fainting, or vomiting
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Swelling of hands or feet
• Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Withdrawal Effects:

Not Applicable

Additional Information:

For usage in trans women as a hormone replacement, it should be known that there are no long term studies on the effects of estrogen in those male assigned at birth. Additionally, no studies have been done regarding long term usage of high dosages of estrogen (both synthetic and natural estrogen sources) such as those prescribed for use by trans women.

Note that none of this information applies to plant based estrogens (phytoestrogens).

Several major studies show conflicting data on whether or not estrogen increases or decreases heart disease and related health issues. If you know you have any personal or family history of heart disease you should consult your doctor to ensure that they properly monitor you, and so you can be better educated about your own risks.

While not a psychiatric medication, estradiol valerate and other estrogens, as well as other hormones including progestins and testosterone may have a powerful effect on your mood and mental health. If you have existing mental health conditions or take any psychiatric medications, please consult your prescribing psychiatrist and keep them informed.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estradiol_valerate

http://www.drugs.com/cdi/estradiol-valerate.html

http://www.rxlist.com/delestrogen-drug.htm

http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/022252s001lbl.pdf