Hormones & TRT/HRT Adjuncts

Estradiol

Also known as 17 beta-estradiol · E2 · Estrace · Climara · Estradiol valerate

Clinically studiedOralTransdermal (patch, gel)VaginalIntramuscular injectionFDA-approved for menopausal symptoms and other indications; prescription only

Estradiol is the principal endogenous estrogen, a steroid hormone, not a peptide. It binds estrogen receptors and influences reproductive tissues, bone, the cardiovascular system, and the brain. As replacement therapy it is used to address symptoms of estrogen deficiency, most prominently menopausal vasomotor symptoms, and is available in many formulations including oral, transdermal, and injectable forms.

Studied / used for

FDA-approved and used for moderate-to-severe menopausal vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes)
Used for prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis
Used for vulvovaginal atrophy and as a component of feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy

Commonly reported side effects

Breast tenderness
Nausea
Headache
Fluid retention and bloating
Mood changes
Increased risk of blood clots and, depending on regimen and population, other cardiovascular and cancer-related risks

Clinically studied. Supported by human clinical trials. This reflects the strength of the research base, not effectiveness or a recommendation.

Not medical advice.

This is an educational reference. Peptalk does not recommend, prescribe, endorse, or rate any compound, and provides no dosing information. Do not start, stop, or change any peptide, hormone, supplement, or therapy based on this page. All clinical decisions must be made with your licensed healthcare provider.

← Back to all compounds