Elleste Solo MX 40

What is it?

A hormonal preparation of oestrogen available as patches to stick onto the skin, each delivering 40µg of oestradiol over 24 hours. Also, ELLESTE SOLO MX 80, patches delivering 80µg of oestradiol over 24 hours.

Medical Uses

Hrt for oestrogen deficiency at and after the menopause; Also, prevention of osteoporosis after the menopause (Elleste Solo MX 80).

Dosage

Patches should be adhered to a clean and hairless area of skin below the waist and changed every 3 to 4 days, using a fresh area. For menopausal symptoms, a 40µg patch should be used at first, increasing to 80µg, if required. The maintenance dose should be at the lowest level that is effective. For prevention of osteoporosis, the 80µg patch should be used. When additional progestogen is needed, this should be taken for 12 to 14 days each month.

Special Care

Patients considered to be at risk of thrombosis, those with diabetes, epilepsy, hypertension, multiple sclerosis, migraine, fibroids in uterus, fibrocystic disease, breast nodules, osteosclerosis, tetany, liver disease (monitor liver function), porphyria, kidney disorder, cholelithiasis. All this group should be monitored closely. Regular examination of breasts and pelvic organs should be carried out and blood pressure checked. Persistent breakthrough bleeding. Women should self-examine breasts, attend for mammography (if applicable) and have cervical smear tests.

Avoid Use

Pregnancy, breast-feeding, hormone-dependent cancers, breast or uterus cancer, endometriosis, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding. Serious heart, kidney or liver disease, thrombophlebitis and thromboembolic diseases. Patients suffering from Dublin- Johnson syndrome or Rotor syndrome.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Drugs which induce liver enzymes.

Known Side Effects

Weight gain, enlargement and tenderness of breasts, fluid retention, cramps, gastrointestinal upset, nausea and vomiting, headaches, breakthrough bleeding, dizziness. Cholestetic jaundice, effects on liver function, migraine, nose bleeds, worsening of varicose veins, lowered glucose tolerance, itching and reddening of skin (usually short-lived). Withdraw if migraines or other severe headaches occur for first time, or serious vision disturbances, signs of thromboembolic disorders, seizures, jaundice, hepatitis, serious, whole body itching, pregnancy. Stop 6 weeks before planned surgery or prolonged immobilisation.