How should I take estradiol and norgestimate?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Estradiol and norgestimate usually comes in a pack of pills that are different colors. In most cases you will take a pill of one color for 3 days in a row, and then take a pill of the other color for the next 3 days in a row. This cycle is then repeated throughout your treatment.
Each time you start a new pack, start with the first tablet in the first row of pills. Your medicine may come with stickers to mark your weekday schedule on the pack.
Be sure to have a new pack of this medicine ready to start on the day after you have finished an entire pill pack.
Estradiol may increase your risk of developing a condition that may lead to uterine cancer. Call your doctor at once if you have any unusual vaginal bleeding while using this medicine.
If you need major surgery or will be on long-term bed rest, you may need to stop using this medicine for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are using estradiol and norgestimate.
Your doctor should check your progress on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months) to determine whether you should continue this treatment. Self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis and have a mammogram every year while using estradiol and norgestimate.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.