Estrogens

estradiol

“natural” estrogen; menopausal HT, hypoestrogenism, ovarian failure, gender-affirming HT, prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis

• w/ present uterus… add progestin!

  • prevents endometrial cancer

ethinyl estradiol

synthetic estrogen; birth control, acne treatment, cycle regulation

• high thromboembolism risk

premarin

conjugated/animal derived estrogen; menopausal symptoms, hypoestrogenism, osteoporosis prevention

• do NOT use alone if uterus is present

estrone

weaker estrogen; less commonly prescribed in menopausal HT

• most prevelant naturally in postmenopausal women

estriol

weakest estrogen; topical creams for vaginal atrophy and urogenital symptoms

• minimal systemic absorption

• most prevalent during pregnancy in placenta