Hormone therapy — brand

Estraderm

Twice-weekly estradiol reservoir patch

Reservoir-style estradiol patch — one of the original transdermal HRT options.

Medically reviewed by Kindr Health Clinical Team · Last reviewed 2026-07-03

What it is

Estraderm is a brand-name reservoir-style 17β-estradiol patch, changed twice weekly.

Available in 0.05 and 0.1 mg/day.

How it works

Estradiol diffuses from a liquid reservoir through a membrane into the skin and into circulation.

Bypasses first-pass liver metabolism.

Who it's for

Women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause with vasomotor symptoms
Patients with elevated baseline clot risk who can use transdermal

Who should not take it

Estrogen-sensitive cancer history
Recent clot, stroke, or MI
Active liver disease

Common side effects

Reservoir patches occasionally cause more skin reaction than matrix patches
Breast tenderness, headache early on

Evidence summary

FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms and osteoporosis prevention.

Brand-name vs compounded

Estraderm is an FDA-approved brand-name product. Many Kindr patients use compounded alternatives prepared by a state-licensed 503A pharmacy when a custom dose, custom combination, or different delivery form is clinically preferable. Both pathways are available through Kindr — your provider will recommend based on your individual needs.

Brand-name Estraderm

FDA-approved finished product
Standardized doses
Available at most pharmacies
May be covered by insurance
Limited dose options

Compounded alternative

Custom dose for your needs
Prepared by FDA-registered 503A pharmacy
Not FDA-approved as a finished product
Typically cash pay
Flexible delivery forms

FAQ

Is Estraderm different from matrix patches?

Yes — Estraderm uses a liquid reservoir behind a membrane. Newer matrix patches (Vivelle-Dot, Alora, Climara) hold estradiol in adhesive and tend to be smaller and less irritating.

How often do I change it?

Twice weekly.

Sources

Medically reviewed by Kindr Health Clinical Team
Kindr Health Inc. — Editorial & Clinical Team (physician-supervised)
NPI 1609792902 · Last reviewed: July 3, 2026

Other medications

Estradiol →

Hormone therapy

Micronized Progesterone →

Hormone therapy

Testosterone (low-dose, female-physiologic) →

Hormone therapy

Semaglutide →

GLP-1 weight care

This page is educational and is not a substitute for a clinical evaluation. Whether any medication is appropriate for you depends on your full medical history. Kindr providers make individualized prescribing decisions during a clinical visit.