HRTs in the UK

We've limited this list as much as possible to those preparations that are used for menopause, not the stronger varieties used for oral contraceptives that may be used by very young women in menopause. To look up any additional brand or generic names you may want information about, try searching in the Electronic Medicines Compendium and click on the links identified by the squares that say "spc" rather than the ones that say "pil". For more information on packaging, full risk disclaimers and manufacturer, follow the links from each brand name to a full prescribing info listing.

There are many more forms of testosterone licensed for use in the UK than those we've included here, but all of the others are doses appropriate for men in forms that cannot be adequately adjusted downward for the lower amounts safer in women. If you are offered another testosterone, you can also research it in the electronic Medicines Compendium by either brand or generic name.

These listings are as updated as we can make them, but we don't have an efficient way to check them all on a regular basis. If you are told that an HRT has been discontinued, please drop us a quick email so we can look into it and update this page accordingly.

Oral human-identical single-estrogens:

Oral human-identical three-estrogen combination:

Oral synthetic estrogens:

Oral human-identical progesterone:

Oral synthetic progestins:

Oral combination: human-identical estrogens plus human-identical progesterone:

  • none

Oral combination: human-identical estrogens plus synthetic progestins:

Oral combination: synthetic estrogens plus synthetic progestins:

Patch human-identical estrogens:

Patch combination: human-identical estrogen plus synthetic progestin:

Patch/oral combination: human-identical patch estrogen plus oral synthetic progestin:

  • none

Patch human-identical tesosterone:

  • Intrinsa (now discontinued: see listing)

Cream/gel human-identical estrogens:

Cream/gel human-identical progesterones:

  • none

Cream/gel human-identical testosterones:

Transdermal/patch synthetic estrogens:

  • none

Subdermal (implanted) human-identical estrogens:

Subdermal (implanted) human-identical testosterones:

Vaginal human-identical estrogens:

Vaginal synthetic estrogens:

  • none

Vaginal human-identical progesterones:

Angeliq contains 1 mg estradiol (as estradiol hemihydrate), considered human-identical, and 2mg drospirenone, a synthetic progestin that is purported to be closer to progesterone than most synthetics although it has a very low level of androgenic activity. Inert ingredients include Lactose monohydrate, Maize starch, Maize starch, pregelatinised, Povidone, Magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, Macrogol 6000, Talc, Titanium dioxide (E171), Ferric oxide, red (E172). The tablets are film-coated, making them less suitable for dividing into lower dose portions; this hrt is not suitable for transbuccal delivery. As of July 2019, this hrt is no longer listed as available.


Bedol contains 2 mg of human-identical estradiol that is said to be comparable to Zumenon although we don't have data on its transbuccal use suitability. Inert ingredients include lactose, crospovidone, povidone, talc, magnesium stearate, and opadry white.

Climagest comes in two doses of human-identical estradiol valerate, either 1 mg or 2 mg, with 1 mg norethisterone, a synthetic progestin, in 12 of the 28 pills contained in each packet (so, a cycling HRT). Norethisterone was first formulated in the 1950s and purportedly has a very low level of androgenic activity. The tablets are film-coated, making them less suitable for dividing into lower dose portions; this hrt is not suitable for transbuccal delivery. Inert ingredients include lactose monohydrate, maize starch, povidone, talc, magnesium stearate, FD &C blue no.2 lake (E132), purified water. hypromellose, propylene glycol, opaspray blue M-1-6516 (E171, E464, E132). Cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus, and so this sort of HRT is rarely used in surgical menopause.

Climaval contains 1 mg or 2 mg human-identical estradiol valerate. The tablets are film-coated, making them less suitable for dividing into lower dose portions; this hrt is not suitable for transbuccal delivery. Inert ingredients include lactose monohydrate, maize starch, FD & C blue no. 2 lake (E132), povidone (grade 30), purified water, talc (sterilised, white), magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, propylene glycol, Opaspray blue M-1-6517 (E171, E464, E132).

Climesse contains 2 mg estradiol valerate, considered human-identical, and 0.7 mg norethisterone, a synthetic progestin. This is a non-cycling hrt. Norethisterone was first formulated in the 1950s and purportedly has a very low level of androgenic activity. The tablets are film-coated, making them less suitable for dividing into lower dose portions; this hrt is not suitable for transbuccal delivery. Inert ingredients include: lactose monohydrate, maize starch, povidone, purified water, talc, magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, iron oxide red (E172), titanium dioxide (E171), purified water.

Clinorette contains 2 mg human-identical estradiol plus 1 mg norethisterone in a packet that is meant to cycle plain estrogen for 16 days and the combined product for 12. Norethisterone was first formulated in the 1950s and purportedly has a very low level of androgenic activity. Inert ingredients are listed as Crospovidone, Povidone, Talc, Magnesium stearate, Opadry white, Erythrosine lake. The manufacturer's dosing schedule instructions are for the use of women who have a uterus; cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus.

Crinone Vaginal Gel is an 8% human-identical progesterone gel meant for vaginal application. It is supplied in individual-dose applicators that contain 1.45 g of gel and deliver 1.125g of gel for a dose of 90 mg of progesterone. The manufacturer's dosing schedule instructions are for the use of women who have a uterus; cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus. While the dose can be modified, it is not convenient and requires some care to be accurate. We have no data on whether or not this gel can also be used successfully for non-vaginal transdermal application. Because the formulation is specially designed to adhere and be retained in the vagina, it should not be used concurrently with other vaginal products. While timing of dose can alleviate some of the potential hormone exposure to a partner, the long-lasting nature of this gel may nonetheless make it difficult for a partner to avoid it entirely. There are some drowsiness and balance risks inherent in beginning use of human-identical progesterones. Inert ingredients include: Glycerin, Light Liquid Paraffin, Hydrogenated Palm Oil Glyceride, Carbopol 974P, Sorbic acid, Polycarbophil, Sodium hydroxide, Purified water.

Cyclogest is a suppository (pessary) for vaginal or rectal use containing human-identical progesterone. It comes in 200mg and 400mg doses. The manufacturer's dosing schedule instructions are for the treatment of pms in women who have a uterus; cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus. This dose is much higher than that typically used in surgical menopause, but women have reported cutting this product down to provide a source of dose-modifiable human-identical progesterone. While the dose can be modified, the process is not convenient and requires some care to be accurate. When used vaginally, dose timing precautions may be necessary to avoid exposing a partner to the hormone it contains. The only listed added inert ingredient is vegetable fat.

Cyclo-Progynova is a combined hrt meant to be cycled, with 11 pills containing 1mg estradiol valerate, a human-identical estrogen, followed by 10 pills containing 250 micrograms levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestin, plus 1mg estradiol valerate; this sequence of pills is meant to be followed by a 7-day hormone-free period to produce a 28-day cycle. A higher dose pack is also available, containing 2mg estradiol valerate with 500 micrograms norgestrel in 10 of the pills. Inert ingredients include: lactose, maize starch, povidone, talc, magnesium stearate [E572], sucrose, calcium carbonate [E170], polyethylene glycol 6000, montan glycol wax, titanium dioxide [E171], yellow ferric oxide [E172], red brown ferric oxide [E172], glycerin. Cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus, and a cycle that includes a period without any hormonal support is not likely to be especially comfortable for any woman in surgical menopause.

Elleste Solo is human-identical estradiol hemihydrate in tablets for oral use that come in 1 mg and 2 mg doses. It's possible, since the hemihydrate form of estradiol is known to be used in vaginal hrts, that one could also use this hrt transbuccally, and we have several longterm user reports that this hrt actually delivers satisfactorily via this route. It has also been confirmed by the manufacturer that the molecular form is "micronized," a critical factor in allowing it to move through oral mucous membranes. The tablets are film-coated but may be divided for dose customization. Inert tablet contents are lactose monohydrate, maize starch, povidone 25, talc (purified), magnesium stearate; the coating contains hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (E464), titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol 400.

Elleste Solo is a human-identical estradiol hemihydrate patch that comes in 40 microgram and 80 microgram doses (the dose references the amount calibrated to be delivered per day, not the total amount of estrogen contained in an unused patch) in an acrylic matrix adhesive. The size of the patch is proportional to the dose and it is meant to be changed twice a week. The manufacturer recommends placement on the lower back or buttocks; placement elsewhere can change effective dose delivery. For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

Elleste-Duet comes in three versions: 1 mg or 2 mg human identical estradiol (as estradiol hemihydrate) plus 1 mg norethisterone acetate meant to be taken as estrogen alone for 16 days followed by 12 days of the combined product or (Conti) 2 mg estradiol plus 1 mg  norethisterone meant to be taken continuously. Norethisterone was first formulated in the 1950s and purportedly has a very low level of androgenic activity. Inert ingredients are Lactose monohydrate, Maize starch, Povidone, Talc, Magnesium stearate, Hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, Titanium dioxide, Macrogol, Black iron oxide. The manufacturer's dosing schedule instructions are for the use of women who have a uterus; cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus.

Estraderm contains human-identical estradiol that delivers 25, 50, 75, or 100 micrograms/day via an acrylic matrix adhesive. The size of the patch is proportional to the dose and it is meant to be changed twice a week. The manufacturer recommends sites below the waistline, but suggests that wrinkling may be minimized by placing the patch on the buttocks. Inert ingredients include Acrylate, methacrylate, isopropyl palmitate, polyethylene terephthalate, ethylenevinylacetate copolymer, silicone coating (on the inner side of the protective release liner which is removed before patch application). For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

Estradiol implants  are no longer available through the NHS. Some private clinics continue to advertise them and presumably have sources of their own.

Estradot provides human-identical estradiol hemihydrate in a silicone/acrylic matrix patch meant to be changed twice weekly. The doses are: 0.39 mg estradiol (25 microgram estradiol per 24 hours), 0.585 mg estradiol (37.5 microgram estradiol per 24 hours), 0.78 mg estradiol (50 microgram estradiol per 24 hours), 1.17 mg estradiol (75 microgram estradiol per 24 hours), 1.56 mg estradiol (100 microgram estradiol per 24 hours). The physical size of the patch is proportional to the dose. The manufacturer notes that the lower two doses are not to be used for osteoporosis treatment, although that is likely to be a matter of legality, not the case that lower doses have no effect whatsoever on bone density (in the US, those lower doses have been accepted by the US FDA as effective for bone maintenance). The manufacturer recommends placement on the abdomen. Inert ingrediets are listed as: (Adhesive matrix) acrylic adhesive, silicone adhesive, oleyl alcohol, dipropylene glycol, povidone (E1201); (Backing layer) ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, polyethylene, vinylidene/vinyl chloride copolymer, polyethylene, ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer co-extruded film; (Release liner) fluoropolymer-coated polyester film. For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

Estring is a silicone ring that dispenses human-identical estradiol hemihydrate. It contains 2.0 mg of the estrogen and is worn continuously in the vagina for a period of three months. It is only used to treat vaginal atrophy, and is not meant to be deliver systemic HRT. Nonetheless because some estrogen can escape from local tissues, especially when vaginal atrophy is already present, it may cause a few symptoms of hormonal fluctuation early in use and it is not considered safe for use by women who cannot use systemic HRTs. Use of progesterone or a progestin is not required by women who have a uterus and use this product because the dose is so low. In dimensions the ring is: outer diameter - 55 mm; cross sectional diameter - 9 mm; core diameter - 2 mm. It is folded into a figure-eight shape for insertion and rides in the area of the cervix or cervical cuff, much like a diaphragm without a center. Women with severe atrophy may require health professional assistance or demonstration of insertion the first time it is used, and some women complain, especially early in use, of feeling as though it's not far enough in or feels as though it might be going to fall out. Some women also notice a feeling of bladder pressure, although that tends to disappear in a few days. More rarely, some women report cramping with the use of a ring, especially when they have irritable bowel syndrome or endometriosis; these women often abandon the use of the ring if symptoms do not resolve within a week or two. The ring should not be used while other vaginal treatment is in place (such as creams). The UK data sheet does not include the information that it can be left in place during intercourse, but the American one does—although it can also be removed and then replaced afterwards if preferred.

Ethinyloestradiol is a synthetic estrogen in doses of 10 mcg, 50mcg and 1mg. The tablets are uncoated and may be divided for dose adjustment; there is no evidence that this estrogen may be taken transbuccally. Inert ingredients include Lactose, Starch Maize, Magnesium Stearate, IMS 99%, Purified water. This is an entirely different synthetic from those found in Premarin and is metabolized relatively more rapidly; therefore this synthetic may provide a different range of effects for women exploring this type of HRT.

Evorel is a human-identical estradiol acrylic matrix patch the size of which is proportional to the dose. It comes in four sizes: 1.6 mg estradiol (25 micrograms of estradiol in 24 hours), 3.2 mg estradiol (50 micrograms of estradiol in 24 hours), 4.8 mg estradiol (75 micrograms of estradiol in 24 hours, and 6.4 mg estradiol (100 micrograms of estradiol in 24 hours). The manufacturer notes that the lowest dose has not yet been demonstrated to be effective in prevention of osteoporosis (although it has been in the US). Placement is specified as simply below the waist. The inert ingredients are listed as Adhesive acrylic polymer, Guar gum (meyprogat 90), Hostaphan MN19 (polyester film - removed before application). For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

Evorel Conti is a matrix patch containing 3.2 mg of estradiol hemihydrate, a human-identical estrogen, plus 11.2 mg of norethisterone acetate, a synthetic progestin, providing a nominal dose of 50 micrograms of estradiol and 170 micrograms of norethisterone acetate per 24 hours. It is meant to be changed twice a week and the hormone blend is used continuously rather than cycled. The manufacturer recommends application to the trunk below the waist. Inert ingredients listed are: (Adhesive:) acrylate-vinylacetate copolymer, Guar gum, (Backing film:) polyethylene terephthalate foil, (Release liner:) siliconised polyethylene terephthalate foil (removed before application). For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

Evorel Sequi is a cycling series of matrix patches, each of which is meant to be changed twice weekly. For two weeks the patch used contains the human-identical estrogen 3.2 mg of estradiol hemihydrate (50 micrograms of estradiol per 24 hours) and for two weeks the patch contains 3.2 mg of estradiol hemihydrate plus 11.2 mg of norethisterone acetate (170 micrograms of norethisterone acetate per 24 hours), a synthetic progestin. The manufacturer recommends application to the trunk below the waist. Inert ingredients listed are: (Adhesive:) acrylate-vinylacetate copolymer, Guar gum, (Backing film:) polyethylene terephthalate foil, (Release liner:) siliconised polyethylene terephthalate foil (removed before application). Cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus, and so this patch is rarely used in surgical menopause. For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

Femoston contains either 1 mg or 2 mg of estradiol hemihydrate, a human-identical estrogen, plus, in 14 of the month's tablets, 10 mg dydrogesterone, a synthetic progestin. Inert ingredients listed include: Lactose, Hypromellose, Maize starch, Colloidal anhydrous silica, Magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, Macrogol 400, Titanium dioxide (E171), Iron oxide black (E172). The tablets are film-coated, making them unsuitable for dividing; this hrt is not suitable for transbuccal delivery. Cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus, and so this sort of HRT is rarely used in surgical menopause.

Femoston-conti contains 1 mg human-identical estradiol hemihydrate and 5 mg dydrogesterone, a synthetic progestin. Inert ingredients listed include: Lactose monohydrate, Hypromellose, Maize starch, Colloidal anhydrous silica, Magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, Macrogol 400, Titanium dioxide (E171), Iron oxides, yellow and red (E172). The tablets are film-coated, making them unsuitable for dividings; this hrt is not suitable for transbuccal delivery.

FemSeven is a human-identical estrogen patch that comes in doses of 1.5 mg estradiol hemihydrate (50 microgram of estradiol in 24 hours), 2.25 mg estradiol hemihydrate (75 microgram of estradiol in 24 hours), or 3.00 mg estradiol hemihydrate (100 microgram of estradiol in 24 hours). The area of the releasing surface is 30 cm2. It is meant to be changed every seven days. It is probably a matrix patch but this is not explicit in the data sheet; the size is proportional to dose. The manufacturer recommends placement below the waist on the buttocks, hip or abdomen, and emphasis is placed on holding the new patch in place long enough for the adhesive to warm through. Inert ingredients as listed as: (Backing layer:) Transparent polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foil, (Adhesive matrix:) Styrene-isoprene block copolymer, glycerine esters of completely hydrogenated resins. For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

FemSeven Conti is a matrix patch for continuous use that contains 1.5 mg of estradiol hemihydrate (50 micrograms of estradiol per 24 hours), a human-identical estrogen and 0.525 mg levonorgestrel (7 micrograms of levonorgestrel per 24 hours), a synthetic progestin. It is meant to be changed every seven days. The manufacturer recommends placement on the buttocks or hip, and emphasis is placed on holding the new patch in place long enough for the adhesive to warm through. Inert ingredients as listed as: (Backing layer:) Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foil, (Adhesive matrix:) Styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, glycerine esters of completely hydrogenated resins, (Protective liner:) Siliconized polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foil. For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

FemSeven Sequi is a matrix patch for cycling hormones that contains a human-identical estrogen and a synthetic progestin. For two weeks out of the month a patch is used that contains 1.5 mg of estradiol hemihydrate (50 micrograms of estradiol per 24 hours); for the other two months a patch is used that contains 1.5 mg of estradiol hemihydrate (50 micrograms per 24 hours) and 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel (10 micrograms per 24 hours). It is meant to be changed every seven days. The manufacturer recommends placement on the buttocks or hip, and emphasis is placed on holding the new patch in place long enough for the adhesive to warm through. Inert ingredients as listed as: (Backing layer:) Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foil, (Adhesive matrix:) Styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, glycerine esters of completely hydrogenated resins, (Protective liner:) Siliconized polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foil. For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website. Cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus, and so this patch is rarely used in surgical menopause.

Gynest 0.01% w/w Cream is a preparation of human-identical estriol meant to be used in the treatment or prevention of urogenital atrophy.  It may be prescribed as the brand name or simply as a generic with the same ingredients and properties. Estriol is a waste product of estrogen metabolism that has very weakly active properties in urogenital tissues (vagina, bladder, surrounding support structures). Because it has little action in other tissues, some practioners feel that this estrogen is less carcinogenic than more active forms; at the same time, because it is so weak, it may provide insufficient strength for some women's needs. The nominal dose recommended by the manufacturer is 0.5 mg, measured by a provided applicator. Dosing is recommended to be daily for two to three weeks and then twice a week thereafter for maintenance. The manufacturer suggests that treatment should be discontinued after about three months to assess whether further use is required but in surgical menopause it is unlikely that treatment will be only short term. Dose customization is achieved by altering the amount and/or frequency of the maintenance dose. Inert ingredients are listed as including: benzoic acid, arachis oil, glyceryl monostearate, glycerin, glutamic acid, and purified water. The product literature notes that because it includes arachis oil (peanut oil), the product should not be used by those with an allergy to peanuts or to soy. As with all vaginal estrogens, care with timing of use and handwashing will help prevent exposure of a partner to this hormone.

Hormonin was an unusual HRT that provided a blend of the three major human-identical estrogens: Estrone 1.4 mg (61%), Estradiol 0.6 mg (26%), and Estriol 0.27mg (12%), making for a non-custom tri-est equivalent. Inert ingredients are listed as including: Sunset yellow, Amaranth, Lactose, Potato starch, Magnesium stearate, Methyl alcohol,Chloroform. This HRT was discontinued in 2016.

Indivina contains a combination of human-identical estrogen with synthetic progestin taken on a continuous schedule. There are three dose strengths: Estradiol valerate 1 mg plus Medroxyprogesterone acetate 2.5 mg; Estradiol valerate 1 mg plus Medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg; and Estradiol valerate 2 mg plus Medroxyprogesterone acetate 5 mg. The lowest of the three is designated by the manufacturer as the starting dose. Inert ingredients are listed as including: Lactose monohydrate, maize starch, elatine, magnesium stearate.

Intrinsa was a matrix patch that contained testosterone but it is no longer on the market. An explanation is here.

Kliofem contains a combination of human-identical estrogen with synthetic progestin taken on a continuous schedule: Estradiol 2 mg plus Norethisterone acetate 1 mg. Inert ingredients are listed as including: Lactose monohydrate, Maize starch, Gelatin, Talc, Magnesium stearate, Methyl hydroxypropyl cellulose (E464), Titanium dioxide (E171), Iron oxide (E172), Propylene glycol, Purified water.

Kliovance contains a combination of human-identical estrogen with synthetic progestin taken on a continuous schedule: estradiol hemihydrate 1.0 mg plus norethisterone acetate 0.5 mg. Inert ingredients are listed as including: Lactose monohydrate, Maize starch, Copovidone, Talc, Magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, Triacetin, Talc.

Livial contains 2.5mg of tibolone, a steroid (hormone) that is referred to as "gonadomimetic" because it can carry out some of the actions of all three sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone). It's main difference from estrogen is that it is designed to produce an overall lower level of endometrial stimulation (due to its progestagenic qualities), thus ostensibly making it suitable for use by women with endometriosis. It is also said not to stimulate an increase in sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), thus interfering less with the activity of a woman's own testosterone. In fact, one of the most common negative effects of this HRT is "the greasies"—the typical picture of mild testosterone excess in overall hormone balance. The manufacturer has demonstrated that it reduces hot flashes and can help prevent osteoporosis. Breast density increases are, according to the manufacturer, not seen with Livial as they are with estrogens. The contraindications and risk profile are nonetheless similar to estrogen HRTs, and the data sheet does include a recommendation that a progestagen be used cyclically by women with a uterus (research). Because this is not a direct hormone analog, women considering its use would be well-advised to read the current research and use precautions available (we've got a number of them in our bookmark account). Inert ingredients are listed as including: Potato starch, magnesium stearate, ascorbyl palmitate and lactose.

Novofem combines a human-identical estrogen with a synthetic progestin in a cycling dose schedule. A month's schedule include 16 days of estradiol hemihydrate 1 mg and 12 days of estradiol hemihydrate 1 mg plus norethisterone acetate 1 mg. Cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus, and so this HRT is rarely used in surgical menopause. Inert ingredients are listed as including: Lactose monohydrate, Maize starch, Gelatin, Talc, Magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, triacetin, red iron oxide (E 172), titanium dioxide (E 171), propylene glycol.

Nuvelle Continuous contains a combination of human-identical estrogen with synthetic progestin taken on a continuous schedule: estradiol hemihydrate 2.0 mg plus norethisterone acetate 1.0 mg. Inert ingredients are listed as including: lactose monohydrate, maize starch, pre-gelatinized maize starch, povidone 25 000, talc, magnesium stearate (E572), methylhydroxypropyl cellulose, macrogol 6000, titanium dioxide (E171), ferric oxide pigment, red (E172). As of July 2019 this hrt is no longer listed as available.


Oestrogel contains human-identical estradiol as active ingredient in a 0.06% gel solution for continuous use. Each measure from the dispenser contains 1.25 gm of the gel, two measures (the usual starting dose) of which contains 1.5 mg estradiol. Dosage increase of up to 4 measures is approved by the manufacturer. If you're having trouble understanding how this dose compares to that of other hrts, please check out our article on transdermal hrt doses. The instructions call for application to arms and shoulders, or inner thighs and drying for 5 minutes before covering with clothing. Skin contact with others, washing or use of other skin care products should be avoided for at least one hour after application. Inert ingredients include Ethanol, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Purified water.

Ortho-Gynest was a pessary for vaginal use that contained 0.5 mg of human-identical estriol meant to be used in the treatment or prevention of urogenital atrophy. It was discontinued in 2013.

Ovestin Cream is a preparation of human-identical estriol meant to be used in the treatment or prevention of urogenital atrophy. It may be prescribed as the brand name or simply as a generic with the same ingredients and properties. Estriol is a waste product of estrogen metabolism that has very weakly active properties in urogenital tissues (vagina, bladder, surrounding support structures). Because it has little action in other tissues, some practioners feel that this estrogen is less carcinogenic than more active forms; at the same time, because it is so weak, it may provide insufficient strength for some women's needs. The nominal dose recommended by the manufacturer is 0.5gm, measured by a provided applicator. Dosing is recommended to be daily for two to three weeks and then twice a week thereafter for maintenance. The manufacturer suggests that treatment should be discontinued after about three months to assess whether further use is required but in surgical menopause it is unlikely that treatment will be only short term. Dose customization is achieved by altering the amount and/or frequency of the maintenance dose. Inert ingredients are listed as including: octyldodecanol; cetyl palmitate; glycerin; cetyl alcohol; stearyl alcohol; Polysorbate 60; sorbitan stearate; chlorhexidine dihydrochloride; lactic acid; sodium hydroxide to pH 4, purified water. As with all vaginal estrogens, care with timing of use and handwashing will help prevent exposure of a partner to this hormone.

Premarin is the great-grandmother of prescription estrogens and once was the most widely-prescribed drug in the US. It comes as a non-dividable coated pill in 0.625 or 1.25 mg dose strengths. The active ingredient is listed as conjugated equine estrogens. It is derived from the urine of pregnant mares (hence the name), leading to ethical objections to its use by some women. It contains a large number of hormonal compounds that are capable of acting in some ways like estrogen and some compounds that are testosterone-related but not testosterone. There used to be a listing that compared what's in Premarin with what Cenestin, a plant-based comparable, contains at the Cenestin website, but it has since been removed. We've transcribed it and posted the list for you. The US FDA has asked the manufacturer for a full identification of everything that's in Premarin—which the manufacturer admitted they haven't quite worked out yet. Because it's not human-identical, it doesn't work the same way or break down the same way as our own estrogens. This can be good or bad, depending upon your needs. One thing peculiar to Premarin that may be relevant as you deal with its various effects or change from it to another form of HRT is that Premarin stays in the body for a considerable period of time after you take it, and the longer you take it, the longer it takes to wear off. For someone who has taken it for only weeks, this clearance is weeks as well; if you've taken it for years, it may take months to fully leave your system. This means that as you switch, you'll have to gradually increase your new HRT as the Premarin wanes—and you may have hot flashes from that dose fluctuation the whole time. While Premarin has the highest rate of side effects in women we've heard from who are having problems with their HRT, obviously a lot of other women are doing just fine on it. Conjugated estrogens taken orally have also been linked to a higher incidence of hypertension, although studies provide conflicting data on this. We've seen it observed by other health professionals that women taking Premarin are often taking a number of other drugs for "other" problems like asthma, depression, allergies, etc. (that all have hormonal links), but it's hard to guess whether that might have to do with the hormone form or the doctor's style. Many doctors will only prescribe Premarin for HRT because it's the one all the studies have been done on and thus it's the one most "proven." However, you have to keep in mind that these studies were paid for by Premarin's manufacturer, who have been agressively pursuing the market since the Women's Health Initiative study led to such losses for their product. The UK version lists the inert ingredients as, for Premarin 0.625mg: Calcium sulphate, carnauba wax, microcrystalline cellulose, glyceryl mono-oleate, lactose, magnesium stearate, methylcellulose, macrogol, shellac solution (pharmaceutical glaze), sucrose, titanium dioxide (E171), and opalux maroon colour AS-3910 (Opalux maroon colour contains sucrose, purified water, erythrosine (E127), titanium dioxide (E171), sunset yellow (E110), indigo carmine (E132), polyvinylpyrrolidone and sodium benzoate) and for Premarin 1.25mg: Calcium sulphate, carnauba wax, microcrystalline cellulose, glyceryl mono-oleate, lactose, magnesium stearate, methylcellulose, macrogol, shellac solution (pharmaceutical glaze), sucrose, titanium dioxide (E171), colours E110, E104.

Premique contains conjugated estrogens (Premarin) 0.625mg and medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera) 5.0mg. It is also available as Premique Low Dose with 0.3 mg conjugated estrogens with 1.5 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate. Inert ingredients include: (tablet core:) Lactose monohydrate, Methylcellulose , Magnesium stearate, Calcium phosphate tribasic, (tablet coating:) Calcium sulphate anhydrous, Macrogol, Glyceryl mono-oleate, Shellac,Microcrystalline cellulose, Sucrose, Titanium dioxide, Povidone, Carnauba wax, Colour (E132), (for tablets marked with '0.625/5':) Stearic acid, Edible Ink (iron oxide black (E172), shellac, purified water, ethanol, N-butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, ethyl acetate).

Prempak-C comes in two different strengths. Prempak-C 0.625mg consists of 28 tablets containing 0.625mg conjugated estrogens and 12 tablets containing 0.15mg norgestrel, a synthetic progestin more commonly used in oral contraceptives. Prempak-C 1.25mg consists of 28 tablets containing 1.25mg conjugated estrogens and 12 tablets containing 0.15mg norgestrel. This hrt is meant for women who have a uterus; there is no need to cycle hormones without a uterus.

Progynova provides human-identical estradiol valerate in 1.0 mg and 2.0 mg doses. Inert ingredients are listed as including: Lactose monohydrate, Maize Starch, Povidone 25000, Talc, Magnesium Stearate [E572], Sucrose, Povidone 700,000, Macrogol 6000, Calcium Carbonate [E170], Titanium Dioxide [E171], Glycerol 85% [E422], Montan Glycol Wax, Indigo Carmine [E132], Purified Water.

Progynova is also the name of a human-identical estrogen matrix patch that comes in two dose
strengths: 3.9mg estradiol hemihydrate (50 micrograms of estradiol per 24 hours) or 7.8 mg estradiol hemihydrate (100 micrograms of estradiol per 24 hours). The patches are meant to be changed weekly. The manufacturer recommends placement on the trunk or buttocks. Inert ingredients are listed as including: Isooctyl acrylate/acrylamide/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethyl oleate, isopropyl myristate, glycerol monolaurate mounted on a polyester release liner and protected with a polyethylene backing film. For more on patch application, delivery dynamics, dose adjustments and other patch concerns, please see the "Troubleshooting patches" section of this website.

Provera contains medroxyprogesterone acetate and comes in 2.5, 5, and 10 mg doses (as well as 100, 200, and 400 mg tablets that are used for other purposes than menopause). Inert ingredients are listed as: Lactose, Sucrose, Maize Starch, Liquid Paraffin, Talc, Calcium Stearate, Purified Water with the addition of E110 in the 2.5 mg, FD & C Blue No. 2 Aluminium Lake in the 5 mg, and no coloring in the 10mg. MPA is synthesized from progesterone (we don't know whose). It is shown to be effective in reducing hot flashes and decreasing the rate of bone loss. It is less likely to cause your HDL (good) cholesterol to drop than other progestins. It also has an anti-testosterone effect and can decrease libido. As with the estrogen/Premarin linking problem, some doctors hear only "Provera" when you say "progesterone." Provera is one of the hormones involved in the Women's Health Initiative study that was discontinued due to excessive risk and subsequent research is indicating that some of the risks may have been due at least as much to the provera as the premarin.

Sandrena gel is human-identical estrogen gel for transdermal application. It comes in two dose strengths: 0.5 mg estradiol hemihydrate or 1.0 mg estradiol hemihydrate (the latter dose being designated by the manufacturer as the "usual starting dose"). The gel comes in individual dose packets, with the application instructions that it be "applied once daily on the skin of the lower trunk of the right or left thigh, on alternate days. The application surface should be 1-2 times the size of a hand. Sandrena should not be applied on the breasts, on the face or irritated skin. After application the gel should be allowed to dry for a few minutes and the application site should not be washed within 1 hour. Contact of the gel with eyes should be avoided. Hands should be washed after application. The dose can be divided, but care is needed to do so accurately. Inert ingredients are listed as: Carbomer 974P, Trolamine, Propylene glycol, Ethanol 96%, Aq. purif. - Purified water.

Testim is a form of human-identical testosterone HRT intended and licensed for men. Nonetheless, the hormone it contains is the same as female-produced testosterone. The problem with preparations developed for the male market is that they contain too much testosterone for a woman's level of needs. Because testosterone causes some of the most serious—and irreversible— effects when taken in excess of need, this isn't to be taken lightly. Testogel comes in 50 mg dose packets, each measuring 5 gm of gel each. That means that for a dose of 1 mg, you would need to divide the dose up in some fashion that would let you use only 1/50 of that packet. So not only do you need to be sure that you are taking a female-appropriate dose, but you need to be able to do some fairly delicate measuring to be sure of getting only the amount you want. It's not impossible, but it's not trivial, either. Don't try to do the math on this alone—have your pharmacist confirm any dose calculations to make sure that both of you are in agreement over where those slippery decimal points belong and exactly how much volume your dose should be measured out as. This is when a syringe rather than a measuring spoon is more or less obligatory. We have a discussion of female-appropriate dose and testosterone balancing elsewhere on this site. The application instructions are pertinent to male use; check with your doctor for female-use customization or, if you think he's just giving you the same ones as in the linked data sheet that are for men, review the material in the testosterone section of our website. Inert ingredients are listed as: Purified water, Pentadecalactone, Carbomer 980, Carbomer 1342, Propylene glycol, Glycerol, Macrogol 1000, Ethanol, Trometamol.

Testogel is a form of human-identical testosterone HRT intended and licensed for men. Nonetheless, the hormone it contains is the same as female-produced testosterone. The problem with preparations developed for the male market is that they contain too much testosterone for a woman's level of needs. Because testosterone causes some of the most serious—and irreversible— effects when taken in excess of need, this isn't to be taken lightly. Testogel comes in 50 mg dose packets, each measuring 5 gm of gel each. That means that for a dose of 1 mg, you would need to divide the dose up in some fashion that would let you use only 1/50 of that packet. So not only do you need to be sure that you are taking a female-appropriate dose, but you need to be able to do some fairly delicate measuring to be sure of getting only the amount you want. It's not impossible, but it's not trivial, either. Don't try to do the math on this alone—have your pharmacist confirm any dose calculations to make sure that both of you are in agreement over where those slippery decimal points belong and exactly how much volume your dose should be measured out as. This is when a syringe rather than a measuring spoon is more or less obligatory. We have a discussion of female-appropriate dose and testosterone balancing elsewhere on this site. The application instructions are pertinent to male use; check with your doctor for female-use customization or, if you think he's just giving you the same ones as in the linked data sheet that are for men, review the material in the testosterone section of our website. Inert ingredients are listed as: Carbomer 980, Isopropyl myristate, Ethanol 96%, Sodium hydroxide, Purified water.

Testosterone implants are no longer available on the NHS although private clinics may still have a way of obtaining them.

Tridestra is a combination of human-identical estrogen plus synthetic progestin that is given on a quarterly rather than monthly schedule. The recommended dosing is 70 days of 2 mg estradiol valerate, followed by 14 days of 2 mg of estradiol valerate and 20 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate, followed by seven days of a non-hormonal sugar pill. Cycling HRTs are not required by women who no longer have a uterus, and a cycle that includes a period without any hormonal support is not likely to be especially comfortable for any woman in surgical menopause. Inert ingredients are listed as: Lactose, Maize starch, Gelatine, Purified water, Magnesium stearate, Talc, Indigo carmine (E132), Yellow iron oxide (E172).

Trisequens combines a human-identical estrogen and synthetic progestin in a three-phase dose schedule: 12 days of Estradiol hemihydrate 2mg, followed by 10 days of Estradiol hemihydrate 2mg plus Norethisterone acetate EP 1mg, followed by 6 days of Estradiol hemihydrate 1mg. Inert ingredients are listed as: Lactose monohydrate, Maize starch, Gelatin, Talc, Magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, Purified water, Indigo carmine (E132), Titanium dioxide (E171), Macrogol 400, Triacetin, Iron oxide (E172), Propylene glycol. Note: some lists also show a higher dose product called Trisequens Forte, but we are no longer able to locate a full description for it.

Utrogestan provides micronized human-identical progesterone in an oil-filled gelcap. It comes in a 100 mg dose and also includes refined sunflower oil, soya lecithin, gelatin, glycerol , titanium dioxide, and purified water. The oil is required to provide a timed-release function. This is a much larger dose than is normally taken transdermally because of first pass liver losses, even with the oil doing its best. It's also a larger dose than many women in surgical meno need, and some women must take it at night because it makes them so sleepy. Remember that progesterone has a sedative effect on the brain similar to that of Xanax or Valium, so this isn't really a side effect but rather a desired effect that may simply be too strong at the provided dose. Women who particularly want the sedation to counteract the stimulating effects of estrogen may find they get more sedating metabolites from oral progesterone than transdermal, although from a risk-management standpoint they might be better advised to more tightly tune their estrogen dose. Because prometrium is human-identical, it can be converted into testosterone and estrogen as well as other adrenal hormones such as cortisol. In a pinch, women who wanted to try out the transdermal route (to distinguish between route-related and hormonal effects) have been known to puncture a gelcap and rub the oil on their skin. This should work (they report it does) but it's obviously difficult to measure accurately. Remember that taking a whole 100 mg cap transdermally is four to eight times the normal transdermal dose, so it would seem prudent to cut way back on the amount used if you try this. (Note that there is also a 200mg dose of this product that is meant to be used vaginally for reproductive issues. It is not suitable for surgical menopause, even by women who have a uterus, because it provides five times the typical vaginal dose used for uterine protection.)

Vagifem is a human-identical estrogen tablet for vaginal application. It contains 10 micrograms of estradiol. This is not a systemic hrt but rather is meant to be entirely absorbed locally for treatment of urogenital atrophy, without systemic effect. Nonetheless because some estrogen can escape from local tissues, especially when vaginal atrophy is already present, it may cause a few symptoms of hormonal fluctation early in use and it is not considered safe for use by women who cannot use systemic HRTs. Use of progesterone or a progestin is not required by women who have a uterus and use this product because the dose is so low. The recommended dose schedule is one tablet daily for two weeks followed by a maintenance dose of two tablets per week. The manufacturer suggests that "treatment should be discontinued after about three months to assess whether further therapy is necessary" but in surgical menopause it is unlikely that treatment will be only short term. Dose customization is achieved by altering the frequency of the maintenance dose. Because the dose is low, severe or longstanding atrophy may take more than the two-week period of intensive dosing to respond to treatment. Inert ingredients are listed as: Methyl hydroxypropyl cellulose (E464), Lactose, Maize starch, Magnesium stearate, Polyethylene glycol 6000, Purified water. The data sheet lists no recommendations regarding the use of this product by sexually active women, but wisdom would dictate defering the dose until after intercourse to avoid potential exposure to a partner.

Zumenon is a human-identical estrogen available in two doses: 1 mg and 2 mg estradiol hemihydrate. Inert ingredients are listed as: Lactose, Hypromellose, Maize Starch, Colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate, Hypromellose, Macrogol 400, Titanium dioxide (E171). We have reports from women that this hrt delivers effectively when taken transbuccally but do not have any manufacturer's confirmation of this and it is not specifically licensed for this delivery.
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