Elleste Solo

What is it?

A hormonal, HRT preparation comprising oestrogen alone, available as film-coated tablets in two strengths. White tablets contain 1mg of oestradiol and are marked 01; orange tablets contain 2mg, marked 02.Usedfor: menopausal symptoms, mainly in women who have undergone a hysterectomy; prevention of osteoporosis after the menopause.

Dosage

Adult women, 1 to 2mg each day, adjusting according to the response. May be taken without a break but women who have a uterus must Also, take additional progestogen for 12 to 14 days.

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, cholelithissis. 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, gastro-intestinal upset, nausea and vomiting, headaches, breakthrough bleeding, dizziness. Cholestatic 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.