What is Gynokadin?
Gynokadin is an estradiol gel for transdermal (through the skin) hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It is applied to the skin daily and supplies estradiol, the estrogen naturally produced by the body.
With transdermal use, the estrogen enters the bloodstream directly without first passing through the liver.
Women with a uterus must also take a progestogen (e.g., as a tablet or a combined product).
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Estradiol
Estradiol:
- Is the main female estrogen
- Is absorbed through the skin
- Replaces the body's own estrogen, which declines during menopause
Effects:
- Relief of hot flashes and sweating episodes
- Improvement of sleep disturbances
- Protection against vaginal dryness
- Protection against osteoporosis
- Improvement in quality of life
Who is it suitable for?
Gynokadin is suitable for:
- Women with menopausal symptoms
- Women with surgically induced menopause
- Women with estrogen deficiency
Preferred in cases of:
- Increased risk of thrombosis
- Gallbladder disease
- Migraine
Available Dosages
Gynokadin metered-dose gel:
- 0.6 mg estradiol per gram of gel; 1 pump contains 1.25 g of gel (equivalent to 0.75 mg estradiol)
- Metered-dose dispenser with precise delivery
Dosage:
- Usual: 1-2 pumps daily
- Can be adjusted individually
- Use the lowest effective dose
How to Take
Application:
- Apply to the skin once daily
- Apply to as large an area as possible, preferably to the arms and shoulders
- Do not apply to the breasts
- Rub in gently
- Allow to dry for 5 minutes before getting dressed
- Wash your hands after applying
Important:
- Always apply at the same time of day
- Change the application site daily
Contraindications
- Breast cancer (current or past history)
- Estrogen-dependent tumors
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Acute or previous thrombosis
- Acute liver disease, or previous liver disease as long as the relevant liver enzyme levels have not returned to normal
- Porphyria
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding
Possible Side Effects
Common:
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Bleeding/spotting
Uncommon:
- Weight gain
- Mood swings
- Skin irritation at the application site
Rare:
- Thrombosis
Interactions
- Enzyme inducers (St. John's wort, antiepileptic drugs) may reduce the effect
- Thyroid hormones: dose adjustment may be necessary
Frequently Asked Questions
If you still have a uterus, yes! Estradiol alone increases the risk of endometrial cancer. A progestogen protects against this.
With the gel, the estrogen enters the bloodstream directly through the skin without first passing through the liver. The decision is made by the treating doctor.
Yes, which is why you should wash your hands after applying it and cover the area where it was applied until the gel has been absorbed (approx. 5 min).
According to the package leaflet, the gel is applied once daily over a large area of clean, dry skin — preferably to the arms and shoulders. Do not apply to the breasts or mucous membranes, and let the gel absorb briefly before getting dressed.
The active ingredient estradiol is absorbed through the skin; initial improvements in menopausal symptoms are often seen within a few weeks. The appropriate dosage is determined by a doctor and adjusted if necessary.
Commonly reported effects include skin reactions at the application site, breast tenderness, headaches and breakthrough bleeding. Details are given in the package leaflet; if symptoms persist, you should seek medical advice.
After a hysterectomy, estrogen-only therapy without an additional progestogen is usually possible. In women with a uterus, however, a progestogen is usually combined with it to protect the lining of the uterus. The decision is made by the treating doctor.
Similar Medications
Is Gynokadin right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.