Absorption of Estrogens from Vaginal Creams

Abstract

INTRAVAGINAL application of estrogen-containing creams has been widely used in the treatment of vaginal atrophy and related conditions due to estrogen deficiency. Although its efficacy is well recognized,1 , 2 the assumed "topical" effect and the potential for absorption of estrogenic substances contained in the vaginal cream are virtually unexplored.Recent observations indicate that the efficacy of absorption of micronized 17β-estradiol yields blood estradiol levels 100 times higher when administered intravaginally in salines than when given by mouth.3 , 4 Moreover, the substantial intestinal conversion of estradiol to estrone, observed after oral administration of estradiol,3 is circumvented by intravaginal application. These findings prompted us . . .