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[Vesty]

Hi all,
I'm on Estrogel, but find the alcohol base  irritating to my skin.
Does anyone know if there's a cream based version that I could request from my GP?

Many thanks

[CLKD]

Sorry can't help.  Hopefully some1 will be along, if not speak with a pharmacist over the weekend to get an idea what is available - B4 speaking to your GP.

[chopsuey]

No cream options, in the UK at least - just alcohol based gels, patches and tablets. Used to be implants privately but not sure if they are still available.

[Suziemc]

Hi

I use Lenzetto spray - no idea about alcohol content but might be worth you reading the patient info leaflet on it to see if it would be suitable.

Suzie

[chopsuey]

Sorry, meant to include Lenzetto spray. It is 96% ethanol though.

[Vesty]

Thank you all for your input... It  looks like a simple switch to a cream base is not easy!
I will speak to my pharmacist first as suggested.
Many thanks 👍

[chopsuey]

Have you tried applying a moisturiser at least an hour after the Oestrogel, in case it is the drying effect of the alcohol that it is irritating your skin? You will need to make sure any residues are removed before your next application though.

[Vesty]

Thanks, I will try that. 👍

[CrispyChick]

You'd be able to get a cream base if you went to a bhrt clinic and got a compounded product. Big it'll cost you a lot. X

[Vesty]

Yes! I believe you! Can't afford to go that route. But thanks for your reply.

[bombsh3ll]

I would just say don't be afraid of oral estradiol.

So many women struggle with various issues around transdermal estrogen - skin irritation is common - and are needlessly petrified of taking a pill, which is so easy and low maintenance.

I am really happy on oral and don't think I'd ever use transdermal. The difference in thrombotic risk is not clinically significant in healthy users.

[Vesty]

You've really made a point for me to consider it. Thanks for that.

[K45]

My mum was told recently the risk of clots connected to oral estradiol greatly increases with age - was fine to be on it from 40s until mid 70s. After this age gel is recommended as a safer alternative.

[Vesty]

Thanks for your reply. I'm 65, so I think oral would be a risk for me.
Why does this all have to be so difficult? You would think finding a more skin friendly alternative wouldn't be this hard!

[K45]

I know what you mean...it's certainly a challenge not only finding what works but also getting the right prescription!

My mum's GP and gynae were both happy for her to take tablets up to age 75 and then at this point the risk goes up and outweighed the benefits so at 65 it might still be worth running it by your GP.