What is Biest (estriol + estradiol)?
A combination of estriol and estradiol, usually 80/20 or 50/50, for menopausal hormone therapy.
At Pharmacy on the Park, Biest is compounded in our pharmacy from a prescription, in the strength and form your prescriber orders.
How does it work?
Combines two estrogens, estriol and estradiol, to replace estrogen after menopause.
What is it used for?
A combination of estriol and estradiol, usually 80/20 or 50/50, for menopausal hormone therapy. Your prescriber determines the use, dose and monitoring.
How is it used?
- Cream. Creams are applied to the area your prescriber directs. Metered dispensers such as Topi-CLICK® deliver the same amount each time. Wash your hands after applying.
- Rapid-dissolve tablet. Rapid-dissolve tablets are placed under the tongue and allowed to melt. Avoid eating or drinking until fully dissolved.
- Vaginal preparation. Vaginal preparations are inserted with an applicator or dispenser, usually at bedtime, as directed.
- Slow-release capsule. Slow-release capsules are swallowed whole. Do not open, crush or chew them.
- Capsule. Capsules are swallowed by mouth. For pets, a capsule can often be hidden in a small treat if your veterinarian agrees.
- Troche. Troches are placed between the cheek and gum and allowed to dissolve slowly. Avoid eating or drinking until fully dissolved.
- Oral liquid. Oral liquids are shaken well and measured with the oral syringe we provide.
- Tablet. Tablets are taken by mouth as directed on your label.
Follow the directions on your label. The strength, amount and schedule are set by your prescriber.
Side effects and safety
Commonly reported: Breast tenderness, bloating, headache, spotting. Call your prescriber or us about any reaction that concerns you.
Who should use caution?
People with a history of breast or uterine cancer, blood clots, stroke, liver disease or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Share your full medical history and medication list with your prescriber.
How should it be stored?
Store troches at room temperature unless your label says otherwise. Check your label: some liquids are refrigerated. Shake well before each dose. Always follow the storage directions and beyond-use date on your label, and keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
Why is it compounded?
Biest is a combination of two estrogens in ratios your prescriber chooses, which is not available as a commercial product.
Biest is also prepared in combination with Testosterone, Progesterone, DHEA, DMSO. See combination preparations in our library.