Progynova 2 mg (Estradiol Valerate tablets)

Name:

Progynova 2 mg (Estradiol Valerate tablets)

Category:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) / Estrogen Therapy

Prescription Status:

Prescription Only Medicine (POM)

Active Ingredient:

• Estradiol valerate 2 mg (a form of estrogen)

Uses:

• Relief of menopausal symptoms: hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness

• Prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

• Part of gender-affirming hormone therapy (MtF transition)

• Hormonal support in hypogonadism or ovarian failure

Dosage:

• Common dosing: daily or every other day, 1–2 mg based on symptoms and serum estrogen levels

• Regimens vary: daily dosage or cyclic (e.g., 2 mg for 21 days followed by 7 days break) as guided by a healthcare provider

Mechanism of Action:

Estradiol replaces estrogen lost during menopause, binding to estrogen receptors in the body and helping restore hormonal balance.

Common Side Effects:

• Breast tenderness, nausea, bloating, headache

• Fluid retention, abdominal cramps, mood changes

• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding, especially early in therapy

Serious Risks:

• Blood clots (VTE) – risk increases after 1 year or in smokers/obese individuals

• Breast and endometrial cancer – particularly with unopposed estrogen

• Cardiovascular issues: stroke, heart disease

• Gallbladder disease

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure, lipids, liver and glucose levels is recommended

Contraindications:

Not to be used in individuals with:

• History of estrogen-dependent cancer (e.g., breast, endometrial)

• Recent stroke or heart attack, active blood clots, or untreated hypertension

• Liver disease, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, porphyria, or known hypersensitivity to estrogen

Precautions:

• Regular gynaecological and mammographic exams advised

• Combine with a progestin for women with an intact uterus to reduce endometrial cancer risk

• Avoid smoking while on therapy

• Caution in migraine sufferers, diabetics, those with high cholesterol, or thyroid disorders