Combipatch and/or alternatives

Description of Combipatch

Estradiol and Norethindrone are the generic names of Combipatch and it is an adhesive-based matrix transdermal patch. This transdermal patch is available in two sizes- 9 sq cm round and 16 sq cm round, and you can buy Combipatch with a prescription from a doctor. This transdermal patch comprises of three different layers, with the first or top layer being a translucent polyolefin film backing. The second or middle layer is an adhesive layer that contains norethindrone acetate, estradiol, silicone adhesive, acrylic adhesive, oleic acid NF, oleyl alcohol, dipropylene glycol, and povidone USP. The third and bottom layer is a polyester release protective liner.

Indications & Dosage of Combipatch

Combipatch is normally prescribed for women who need treatment for moderate or severe vasomotor symptoms that are normally associated with menopause. Combipatch is also prescribed for women who need treatment for vaginal atrophy and show severe symptoms of vulvar problems. Combipatch is also prescribed by doctors for treatment of hypoestrogenism caused by primary ovarian failure, castration or hypogonadism.

Combipatch therapy can be conducted using either strengths of patches i.e Combipatch 9 sq cm containing estradiol 0.05 mg and NETA 0.14 mg or Combipatch 16 sq cm containing estradiol 0.05 mg and NETA 0.25 mg. Most doctors recommend the lowest effective dose per day to start with and gradually proceed to the higher dose. During the therapy, the health condition of women patients should be re-evaluated especially in 3 to 6 month intervals. It needs to be worn on a clear and dry area of skin on the lower abdomen.

Side Effects & Interactions of Combipatch

Administration of Combipatch can lead to mild or moderate side effects with clearly visible symptoms. Some of the side effects caused by Combipatch include:

• Lower back pain
• Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Nausea and vomiting
• Drowsiness and dizziness
• Mild to severe headache
• Stomach pain and diarrhea
• Mild breast pain
• Mild to severe hair loss
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Changes in vision or speech
• Coughing of blood
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Yellowing of the skin

There are some adverse effects of administration of Combipatch and if you see the following symptoms, discontinue the treatment and inform your doctor.

• Menstrual Disorder
• Papanicolaou Smear
• Breast Enlargement
• Uterine leiomyomata
• Change in cervical secretion
• Vaginal candidiasis
• Changes in cervical ectropion
• Endometrial hyperplasia
• Ovarian or endometrial cancer
• Fibrocystic breast changes
• Enlargement of hepatic hemangiomas

Combipatch is known to interact with other drugs like isotretinoin, acitretin, amprenavir, bosentan, boceprevir, bexarotene, etretinate, dantrolene, griseofulvin, fosamprenavir, telaprevir, hemin, prednisolone, primidone, posaconazole, sulfinpyrazone, and tacrolimus. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking before starting Combipatch therapy.

Warnings & Precautions of Combipatch

Estradiol and norethindrone is known to cause harm to the fetus and it is advised that you not buy Combipatch without consulting your doctor during pregnancy. Clinical studies of animals have revealed that using Combipatch can increase the risk of vaginal adenosis, vaginal cancer in female offspring, and urogenital abnormalities. There is data available that supports the excretion of Estradiol and norethindrone into breast milk and as such, most doctors’ ask breastfeeding mothers to avoid Combipatch during breastfeeding.

You need to discuss your medical history with the doctor prior to administration of Combipatch. You need to inform your doctor if you have undergone surgery or if you:

• Are suffering from blood-clotting disorder
• Are suffering from liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of high blood pressure
• Are suffering from hormone-dependent cancer