Are estrogens in patches or vaginal creams or vaginal rings safer than tablet forms?
We do not know if the other forms are safer than the tablets. Estrogens are available in a variety of forms including transdermal patches, estrogen gels, and vaginal creams and rings. Most of the data on the long-term health effects of estrogens come from studies involving estrogen and progestin oral tablets. Unless there are data to say otherwise, FDA recommends that postmenopausal women who take estrogen and progestin in other dosage forms be similarly warned about risks. The amount of estrogen that enters the blood stream from estrogen-containing vaginal creams and rings can vary depending on the specific product; how it is used, and on factors that vary from woman to woman. FDA encourages manufacturers to provide drug blood level information in the physician prescribing information. However, it is important to realize that little is known about the relationship between blood levels of estrogens and potential health risks. 24. If a woman wants to stop taking estrogens, what should s
