Hormone therapy — brand

Menostar

Weekly ultra-low-dose estradiol patch

Once-weekly ultra-low-dose (0.014 mg/day) estradiol patch indicated for osteoporosis prevention.

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

What it is

Menostar is a brand-name weekly transdermal estradiol patch at 0.014 mg/day — the lowest systemic estradiol dose available.

FDA-approved specifically for prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

How it works

Delivers a steady ultra-low dose of estradiol sufficient to slow bone loss but typically below the threshold that triggers endometrial proliferation.

Who it's for

Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis risk who do not need vasomotor symptom control
Patients who want minimal systemic estrogen exposure

Who should not take it

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

Common side effects

Patch-site irritation
Mild breast tenderness

Evidence summary

FDA-approved 2004 for osteoporosis prevention based on bone mineral density trials.

Brand-name vs compounded

Menostar 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 Menostar

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

Will Menostar treat my hot flashes?

Usually not — the dose is too low. Menostar is for bone protection, not vasomotor symptoms.

Do I need progesterone with Menostar?

At 0.014 mg/day endometrial stimulation is minimal, but periodic endometrial monitoring is recommended in women with a uterus. Discuss with your kindr provider.

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.