Activella (Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate)

Activella Information:

Activella (generic name: Estradiol and Norethindrone) is a drug which is prescribed for the symptoms of the menopause. Symptoms of the menopause include hot flushes, vaginal dryness, vaginal itching, itching and irritation. The active ingredients are estradiol and norethindrone acetate. These are both hormones that occur naturally in the body. Estradiol is a form of estrogen which is a female sex hormone that is normally produced by the ovaries, and is necessary for many natural bodily processes. Norethindrone is another type of female hormone, which is also known as progesterone. This hormone is vital in the regulation of ovulation and menstruation. When a women goes through the menopause the hormone levels drop dramatically, which can cause the symptoms previously mentioned as well as thinning of the bones, known as osteoporosis. This is because estrogen plays a big part in the breakdown and regeneration of bone tissue, so without estrogen in the body naturally the process weakens. The replaced estrogen helps the bone regeneration process to continue as normal, and helps to eradicate or weaken menopausal symptoms.

Activella Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Activella including nausea, vomiting, tenderness or enlargement of the breasts, weakness, swelling of the hands or feet, spotty darkening of the skin, difficulty wearing contact lenses, vaginal irritation or discomfort, changes in the menstrual cycle and break=through bleeding. More serious side effects may include an allergic reaction, shortness of breath, pain in the chest, abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain or swelling in the abdomen, severe headache, vomiting, dizziness, feeling faint, jaundice (yellowing of the skin around the eyes), or lumps in the breasts. If you experience any side effects you must seek medical attention immediately for safety.

Activella Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Activella to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Activella comes in tablet form. Never crush, chew or break tablets unless directed to do so, as this may cause for too much of a drug to be released at once which could have undesirable effects. Activella should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat.

Activella Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Activella, you should avoid taking it and inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglycerides, kidney disease, asthma, epilepsy, migraines, depression, diabetes, gallbladder disease, uterine fibroids or a hysterectomy. You must consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Activella, including aspirin, blood thinners, or any other drug or supplement. It is important that you inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding as Activella may cause harm to unborn and new born babies.