Climara (Estradiol-17b)

Climara (Estradiol) Medication Information

Uses

Climara is an estrogen synthetic that is used to treat menopause symptoms, and symptoms caused by hypoestrogenism. 

Dosage

The patches are available in several different strengths:

• 0.025 mg/day
• 0.0375 mg/day
• 0.05 mg/day
• 0.06 mg/day
• 0.075 mg/day
• 0.1 mg/day

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Climara include:

• Headache
• Back pain
• Abdominal pain
• Flatulence
• Nausea
• Depression
• Breast pain
• Itching
• Arthralgia 

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Climara.

Precautions

In women who have not had a hysterectomy, they will require the use of progestin in addition to Climara.

There is a risk of elevated blood pressure and triglyceride levels with Climara, so these should be monitored in patients.

There is a possible increased risk in developing ovarian cancer and patients should be made aware of the risk prior to starting therapy with Climara. 

Interactions

A common drug interaction with Climara includes:

• Phenytoin
• Phenobarbital 
• Ketoconazole
• Clarithromycin
• Nelfinavir
• Rifampin 

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Climara. 

Storage

Store below 86 ºF. 

Pharmacist Tips

• Climara is a patch that goes on the skin and it contains estrogen.
• You need to change the Climara patch once a week.
• Your climara dose can be increased to better relieve symptoms. 

Estradiol FAQs

Can Climara cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a possible side effect with Climara. 

How long should you use a Climara patch?

The patch should be changed every 7 days.

How long does it take for the patch to work?

It can take up to a few weeks to see benefit with Climara. 

Can you wear two Climara patches?

Do not wear two patches of Climara at the same time. 

What are the side effects of Climara?

Common side effects with Climara are nausea, vomiting, constipation, skin irritation, and breast swelling. 

Related Drugs

• Premarin
• Prempro
• Provera
• Estring

Reference:

Climara {package insert}. Northridge, CA: Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals; 2007.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020375s026lbl.pdf