Combipatch (Estradiol/Norethindrone) is a combination medication that is used for the treatment of symptoms like vaginal itching, burning or dryness caused by menopause. This medication works by replacing natural progestin and estrogen in women who do not produce enough of these hormones. Women who have had their uterus removed do not need progestin and should not use this combination medication.
Manufacturer Information
We currently have the brand Estalis Patch from Canada manufactured by Novartis. The generic is not available. This medication is available in the strength of 0.05mg/0.14mg and 0.05mg/0.25mg patches.
Combipatch is stored in a
refrigerator 2-8 ° C (36 -46 ° F) prior to dispensing. After it is dispensed it can be stored at
room temperature between 66° F to 77 °F (20 to 25° C) for up to 6 months.
Common side effects include:
• Breast tenderness;
• Changes in weight;
• Headache;
• Nausea and vomiting;
• Skin redness/irritation at the application site;
• Vaginal irritation or discomfort
Serious side effects include:
• Chest pain;
• Increased thirst/urination;
• Lumps in the breast;
• Nausea/vomiting;
• Swelling hands/ankles/feet;
• Unusual vaginal bleeding;
• Yellowing eyes/skin
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to any ingredient in Combipatch. Before you start using this patch, talk to your doctor about your medical history and about all the medications you are currently taking including OTC and herbal medications. You should not use this medication if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast-feeding. There may be an interaction between Combipatch and other medications such as warfarin, anastrazole, raloxifene, tamoxifen, etc. Do not smoke or use tobacco because smoking will further increase your risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure and heart attack. DO NOT APPLY Combipatch to skin that is irritated or broken, to skin areas that are exposed to sunlight, or to your breasts. DO NOT APPLY THIS MEDICINE TO THE SAME SKIN SITE unless at least 1 week has passed since removal of the patch from that site. WHILE USING Combipatch, YOU MAY EXPERIENCE absence of menstrual periods. If you experience irregular menstrual periods or unusual vaginal bleeding, contact your doctor. YOU SHOULD perform regular self-examinations of your breasts. If you have questions about how to do this, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. SMOKING WHILE USING Combipatch may increase your risk of stroke, heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure, or other diseases of the heart and blood vessels. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Combipatch MAY CAUSE dark skin patches on your face. Exposure to the sun may make these patches darker. If patches develop, use a sunscreen or protective clothing when exposed to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths. DO NOT USE Combipatch if you are pregnant. IF YOU SUSPECT THAT YOU COULD BE PREGNANT, contact your doctor immediately for Combipatch Information.