The lowest dose of estrogen prescribed for menopause varies depending on the individual, their needs, and the form of estrogen being used.
Doctors generally recommend starting with the lowest effective dose to manage symptoms of menopause while minimizing potential risks.
The specific dose and form used should be determined in consultation with a doctor. A doctor can tailor the dose and form of estrogen to meet your individual symptoms and health profile.
What is low-dose estrogen typically used for?
Low dose estrogen replacement medications can help relieve:
vasomotor symptomsTrusted Source , such as:- hot flashes
- night sweats
- difficulty sleeping
genital and urinary symptomsTrusted Source , such as:- vaginal dryness
- painful sex
- urinary disorders
Estrogen is the primary hormone that doctors prescribe for symptoms of menopause. Estradiol is a lab-made form of estrogen.
The table below shows the different forms of estradiol and their equivalent doses.
| Form | Ultra low dose | Low dose | Medium dose | High dose |
| Oral | 0.5 mg | 1.0 mg | 2.0 mg | 3 to 4 mg |
| Patch | half 25 mg patch | 25 mg patch | 50 mg path | 75 to 100 mg patch |
| Gel-pump | 1/2 pump | 1 pump | 2 pumps | 3 to 4 pumps |
| Gel-sachet | 1/2 x 0.5 mg sachet to 0.25 mg | 0.5 mg | 1 to 1.5 mg | 2 to 3 mg |
| Spray | 1 spray | 2 sprays | 3 sprays |
If you’ve been experiencing symptoms of menopause that are disrupting your life, make an appointment with a doctor. They can discuss the benefits and risks of
According to the British Menopause Society, some people respond well to one form of estradiol and don’t respond well to another. If you’ve been prescribed a certain dose or form and it’s not working, let your doctor know.
