Ethinylestradiol

Uses of Ethinylestradiol

Ethinyl Estradiol is commonly used to treat Dryness in vagina, Post Menopausal Osteoporosis, and Prostate Cancer. It is also used as contraception, hormone replacement therapy and in failure of ovarian development.

How Ethinylestradiol Works

Ethinyl Estradiol acts similarly to estradiol. Estradiol is the main estrogen in premenopausal women. It plays a big role in the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. Besides, it inhibits anterior pituitary by a negative feedback system and causes capillary dilation, protein anabolism, and fluid retention.

Side Effects of Ethinylestradiol

Headache, Dizziness, Nausea and vomiting, Menstrual cycle disturbances, Breast discomfort, Change of weight, Change of libido, Hirsutism

Warnings

Kidney Limited Data

The use of Ethinylestradiol is should be safe in patients with kidney problem. Hoever, consult your doctor regarding dose adjustment if needed.

Alcohol Use With Care

Consuming alcohol with Ethinylestradiol may worsen the side effects such as headache, dizziness, and nausea.

Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk

Ethinylestradiol is unsafe to use during pregnancy. Both animal and human studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus and fetal abnormalities. Please consult your doctor for more details.

Driving Generally Safe

Generally it is safe to take Ethinylestradiol if you are driving. However, do not drive if you feel any side effects such as dizziness, headaches, or nausea, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.

Liver Limited Data

Ethinylestradiol should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Ethinylestradiol may be needed. However, patients with liver carcinoma is contraindicated to take Ethinylestradiol. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Limited Data

No academic reports explaining the use of Ethinylestradiol during lactation are available. However, the use of Ethinylestradiol for breastfeeding mothers is not recommended because it may reduce milk production and decrease the nutrient content in the milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).