Estrapel® is not currently approved for use. The product is being studied and developed for the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms such as hot flashes in women and will eventually be submitted to the FDA for approval. Estrapel® is a subcutaneous implantable pellet.
Menopausal Hormone Deficiency
On average, women cease to menstruate by their early 50s. The symptoms of menopause may start earlier however and include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal irritation and dryness, irritability, mood swings, etc. The issue of what should be done about this deficiency has been controversial but there is general agreement that menopause is a hormone deficient state and that it should be treated.
Current Recommendations & Guidelines
The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) issues guidelines and recommendations that are followed regarding hormone administration. The recommendations have recently been revised and it is now generally believed that hormone therapy relieves symptoms and even has protective benefits (on the heart and against breast cancer) for women who start therapy early after menopause begins. More information can be obtained from www.menopause.org and www.keepstudy.org.