Brand Name Manufacturers

Depo-Estradiol by Pharmacia/Upjohn

Generic Manufacturers

Depogen by Hyrex
Dep-gynogen by Forest
Estro-cyp by Keene
Goldline
Moore
Rugby
Steris

Pharmacology

Ester with estradiol same effect as endogenous estrogen

Delivery

Sustained release intramuscular injection, 5mg/ml

Typical dosage

Pre-op 1.5-4mg/2wks injection
Post-op 1-3mg/2-4wks injection

Availability

Approved by U.S. FDA

Indications

Estrogen replacement therapy in females

Contraindications

Active blood clotting disorders. Estrogen-dependent tumors. History of blood clotting disorders associated with estrogen use. History of sensitivity to estradiol or any part of the preparation. Known or suspected breast cancer except in appropriately selected patients.

Adverse reactions

CNS

Convulsions. Dizziness. Headache. Migraine. Mental depression. Spasms of limb and facial muscles.

Eyes

Intolerance to contact lenses. Steepening of corneal curvature.

Gastrointestinal

Abdominal cramps. Bloating. Cholestatic jaundice. Nausea. Vomiting.

Skin

Blotchy skin pigmentation. Localized skin irritation. Loss of scalp hair. Increase of body hair. Red skin patches from capillary congestion.

Other

Blood clotting disorders. Elevated blood pressure. Fluid retention. Glucose intolerance. Increased serum calcium level. Increased sensitivity to light. Liver tumors.

Comments

The 1997 pdr generics book shows a 1:10 ratio of cypionate:valerate ovarian failure replacement dosages. This has been roughly confirmed in the limited anecdotal evidence gathered from transsexuals.