Vivelle-Dot Patch

How to use Vivelle-Dot patch

To ensure the proper use of Vivelle-Dot Patch, it is important you follow the instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare provider. Normally, it is pretty simple to use. Before and after applying the patch, wash your hands with soap and water. Keep the patch in its sealed wrapper until you are ready to use it. Carefully tear open the wrapper without cutting it to avoid any damage on the patch. Only use an intact patch, avoiding any that have been accidentally cut. Apply the patch to the previously cleaned and dried skin area, like your lower abdomen or upper buttocks, and press the patch firmly for about 10 seconds. Avoid skin areas with oil, lotion, or powder, as well as the breasts, any cut or broken skin, and spots prone to rubbing off. When changing the patch, always remove the old patch before applying a new one. Patch should be changed twice a week (normally every 3 or 4 days). Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for safety and the best results.

If you forget to wear or change a patch, don’t worry! Simply apply one as soon as you can. However, if it’s almost time for your next patch, wait until then and skip the one you missed. Remember, there’s no need to use extra patches to make up for a missed dose. In case a patch falls off, no problem! Just place it back in a different skin area. If the patch doesn’t stick properly, go ahead and put on a new one. Just make sure to continue following your original schedule for changing to a new patch.

This medication should only be used when prescribed and monitored by a doctor. They will consider factors such as your medical history, current health status, and individual symptoms before recommending and prescribing you this treatment option.

Vivelle-Dot Patch Side Effects

When used as part of menopausal hormone therapy, Vivelle-Dot Patch may have certain side effects. It is important to note that not all individuals will experience these side effects, and the severity and frequency of side effects can vary. This is not a full list of all the possible side effects but the most common ones. For a full list of Vivelle-Dot Patch please contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

• Skin irritation: Some women may experience skin irritation or redness in the area where the patch is applied. This can range from mild itching or discomfort to more severe skin reactions. It is important to follow proper application techniques and rotate the patch placement to minimize the risk of skin irritation.
• Breast tenderness or enlargement: Like other medication used in menopause hormone therapy, Vivelle-Dot Patch may cause breast tenderness or enlargement. This side effect is usually temporary and resolves on its own.
• Headaches: Some individuals may experience headaches while using Vivelle-Dot Patch. These headaches are generally mild and go away on their own. If headaches persist or become severe, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional.
• Vaginal bleeding: Hormone replacement therapy, including the use of the Vivelle-Dot Patch, can cause irregular bleeding or spotting, especially during the first few months of treatment. If experienced, this side effect should be reported immediately to a healthcare provider.
• Mood changes: Some individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, or changes in libido while using Vivelle-Dot Patch. These effects are usually temporary and resolve with time.
• Fluid retention: Vivelle-Dot Patch can cause fluid retention, leading to bloating or weight gain. This side effect is typically mild and temporary.
• Increased risk of blood clots: Hormone replacement therapy, including the use of Vivelle-Dot Patch, can increase the risk of developing blood clots, which can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). It is important to discuss individual risk factors with a healthcare provider before starting hormone replacement therapy.
• Increased risk of certain cancers: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy, including Vivelle-Dot Patch, may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. However, the overall risk is still relatively low.

Serious allergic reactions to this product are rare. However, seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any severe adverse reactions, such as: discomfort in the chest/jaw/left arm, abrupt/intense headache, weakness on one side of the body, disorientation, difficulty in speech, unexpected alterations in vision (e.g., partial/complete loss of sight), discomfort/redness/swelling in the legs, tingling/weakness/numbness in the limbs, respiratory difficulties, expectoration of blood, abrupt lightheadedness/unconsciousness.

The benefits of hormone replacement therapy in managing menopausal symptoms often outweigh the potential risks. However, each individual’s situation is unique, and it is vital to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

Vivelle-Dot Patch Contraindications

You should not use Vivelle-Dot patch if you have any of the following conditions on your health history:

• Allergic to Estradiol or any ingredient in the medication.
• Have history of blood clots: Women with a history of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism) should avoid using any form of estrogen without a thorough discussion about blood clots with a healthcare provider. Vivelle-Dot can increase the risk of blood clot formation, which can be life-threatening.
• Have a history of heart attack or stroke: Women with a history of heart attack or stroke should generally avoid using estradiol or Vivelle-Dot Patch. The medication can increase the risk of cardiovascular events in individuals with a history of these conditions.
• Liver disease: Severe liver disease or liver tumors are contraindications for the use of Estradiol including Vivelle-Dot Patch. The patch is metabolized in the liver, and liver dysfunction can affect its clearance from the body and increase the risk of adverse effects.
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure: Women with uncontrolled high blood pressure should be cautious when using Estradiol. This medication can increase blood pressure, and individuals with pre-existing hypertension may experience further elevation of blood pressure.
• Breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers: Women with a history of breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers should generally avoid using Estradiol. It can potentially stimulate the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors.

These contraindications are general guidelines, and individual patient factors and medical history should be considered when determining the appropriateness of using Vivelle-Dot patch as part of menopausal hormone therapy. If a doctor prescribed Vivelle-Dot patch as part of your menopause treatment, your individual factors and health history should have been evaluated making sure that the medication will not put your health at risk.