Activella (Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate)

What is Activella?

Activella is a combination of two drugs, namely, estradiol and norethindrone acetate. Estradiol is a member of a group of medicines called estrogens and norethindrone acetate comes from the progesterone group.

What is Activella used for?

Activella is a prescription medication for females who suffer problems associated with menopause like menopausal symptoms and vaginal troubles.

How does Activella work?

Activella works by providing the body with necessary hormones, which are produced in lesser amount in the body naturally, during and after menopause.

How to use Activella

Abide by the instructions given to you by your physician as your Activella dosage is decided after considering various medical factors like body weight, age and response of the body. Usually, it is prescribed to be taken once a day regularly for the full prescribed time. You can take it with or without food or as per the instructions of your doctor. For best results, try to take the medicine at the same time every day.

Activella warnings and precautions

Before you begin using this medication, discuss about your medical problems, including the medical history with your doctor, and also keep him updated with your present medical scenario.

Patients suffering from breast or ovarian cancer, having active thrombophlebitis or thromboembolic disorders, increased blood pressure, condition of excess of calcium, diabetes, or gall bladder diseases should avoid taking Activella.

It is highly recommended not to take Activella without consulting a doctor in case of older patients, pregnant and breast feeding females. This is advised because Activella is known to worsen some conditions like epilepsy, fibroids, kidney disease, heart disease, asthma and otosclerosis and it affects aged people more than anyone else.

Do not alter the frequency and intensity of your Activella dose on your own, but if your physician asks you to change it, adhere to his instructions. 

Alcohol and grape fruit should also be avoided while taking Activella, as they can interfere with the effects of this drug.

What do I do if I have missed a Activella dose?

If you have missed your Activella dose, you should take it when you remember. However, skip the dose if less than 12 hours are left for your next dose and go back to your directed schedule.

What do I do if I have taken a Activella overdose?

If you have taken an Activella overdose, you should ask your doctor what to do rather than trying anything on your own.

Activella interactions

Many drugs, including prescribed, non-prescribed and treatments for allergies, are known to interact with Activella if taken without prior consultation with your doctor. Ask your doctor if you are already taking the following medicines:

1. acetaminophen
2. anti-diabetes medication like metformin, glyburide and insulin
3. ritonavir
4. phenylbutazone
5. drugs used to treat high blood pressure
6. azole antifungal medications including ketoconazole
7. morphine
8. cyclosporine

Activella side effects

Activella can result in some unwanted outcomes or side effects if not taken with prior medical consultation. In some cases, the medicine can also cause some temporary and mild to serious and permanent side effects.

Some commonly known side effects of Activella include acne, appetite changes, breast tenderness, abnormal vaginal secretions, changes in menstrual flow, depression, dizziness, and fluid retention.

Also, talk to your doctor if you come across problems like breast pain, irregular and vaginal discharge, easy bruising, prolonged periods, hair loss, migraine headache, weight gain, signs of depression including changes in sleep and thoughts of suicide, signs of liver and pancreatitis disorders, back pain, fever, quicker heartbeat, and swelling of limbs.