Different Forms of HRT: EstroGel and Estrasorb

Please note: the information below is intended for general guidance only. EarlyMenopause.com cannot guarantee the current availability (or suitability) of any form of HRT. Consult your doctor for further information.

Contains: estradiol gel and estradiol topical emulsification

Both EstroGel and Estrasorb are forms of topical estrogen therapy.  In both cases, you apply the gel or emulsification to your body — and the estrogen is delivered through your skin.  In effect, then, they are much the same as patch forms of estrogen:  They are bio-identical estradiol; they are transdermal; and they give you a steady dose of estrogen throughout the day.  Unlike the patches, though, you use these topical products daily.

More specifically, EstroGel was first available in Europe for a number of years and was then introduced to the U.S in 2004.  It is an estradiol gel packaged in a pump bottle that delivers one dose per “pump” — and each bottle contains 64 doses.  You apply the gel once a day on one of your arms. The gel dries in a few minutes — and is both clear and odorless.

Estrasorb is an emulsified cream that you apply topically.  It comes in packets — 2 of which contain your daily dosage of .05 mg estradiol.  As with EstroGel, it’s an easy, typically well-tolerated method of taking estrogen.  You simply rub the contents of the packet into each of your upper thighs — and that’s it for the day.

  • Standard dosage: EstroGel pump delivers 1.25 grams of gel — containing .75 mg estradiol; 2 packets of Estrasorb deliver .05 mg estradiol
  • Pros: Bioidentical; tends not to cause allergic response on the skin, so a good choice for those who prefer transdermal estrogen but had reactions to patch adhesives;
  • Cons: Some women — particularly those who are allergy-prone — may have reactions to these products.