Estratest is a great tablet that controls flushing, sweating, vaginal irritation and hot flashes associated with menopause. It replaces some estrogen that is lost when the reproductive system of the woman shuts down. Though Estratest provides relief for physical symptoms of menopause, it does not help emotional symptoms like depression.

Most estrogen replacement therapies bring an increase in the risk of endometrial cancer and can increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. This risk increases with higher doses and longer treatment. This is why it is better to use the smallest dose that provides relief and to stop the treatment as soon as possible. Estratest has to be taken cyclically where you take a dose a day for three weeks, and then take no tablets for a week.

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However if it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow the regular schedule as you should not take 2 doses at once.

There are some side effects with Estratest; so if there are any changes in intensity your doctor has to be informed immediately. Common side effects include abdominal cramps, bladder problems, breast swelling and tenderness, deepening of the voice, allergic reactions, hair loss on scalp, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, sex drive changes, skin eruptions, yellowing of skin and eyes and weight changes.

It is not advised to take Estratest when breast feeding, if you suffer from breast cancer, have a known or suspected pregnancy, unexplained vaginal bleeding, clotting disorder or severe liver damage.