About Activella

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Activella.

Activella is a drug intended for use by menopausal and post-menopausal women. Activella is comprised of an estrogen and a progestin�two female hormones vital to the health of the reproductive system. The estrogen and progestin in Activella (estradiol and norethrindrone, respectively) is derived entirely from plant-based sources.

The production of estrogen is crucial to the reproductive development of pubescent women. During adulthood, estrogen prepares a woman�s uterus for a potential child and also helps regulate her monthly period. Another important role estrogen plays is in supporting the growth and maintenance of healthy bones. During menopause, a woman�s estrogen levels drop significantly, resulting in insufficient estrogen. Lowered levels of estrogen can lead to an increase of myriad health problems including, but not limited to, hot flashes and postmenopausal osteoporosis. Activella is a form of hormone therapy that supplements a woman estrogen level, thereby helping to alleviate the problems mentioned above.

Progestin, the other hormone present in Activella is also fundamental to a woman�s reproductive health. Progestin is created in the ovaries and helps maintain regular ovulation and menstruation. Activella contains progestin because hormone therapy involving estrogen alone can lead to an increased risk of uterine cancer. Progestin has been shown to significantly reduce a woman�s risk of uterine cancer during hormone therapy.

Activella is also used to treat moderate to severe vaginal problems related to menopause. These changes, termed vaginal atrophy, may include: an itching or burning sensation in or around the vagina, white discharge, discomfort during intercourse and painful urination. Doctors recommend Activella only when these symptoms are directly related to menopause.

Activella has not been approved for use in women who have had a hysterectomy. Activella should be used in only the lowest needed dose. Side affects of Activella may include shortness of breath, headaches and abnormal vaginal bleeding.