Activella contains the medicinal ingredient called estradiol, which is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone that governs many of the bodily processes in the female body. The other medicinal component found in Activella is called norethindrone, which is a form of progesterone, another female hormone that regulates the process of ovulation and menstruation in the female body.

Activella is used as treatment with other medications to relieve the symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flashes and vaginal changes while preventing osteoporosis as well.

Activella is a prescription medication and should be taken strictly as directed by your prescribing doctor.

Taking estradiol has a potential risk of developing a condition that may ultimately result in uterine cancer. If you notice any abnormal bleeding in your vagina while on treatment with Activella, you should inform your doctor of this immediately.

During treatment, you should have regular consultations with your doctor to monitor your progress in order to judge whether you should continue or stop treatment. Make it a practice to self-examine your breasts for lumps every month and schedule a mammogram annually while using Activella.

Before starting treatment with Activella, you should consult with your doctor regarding your medical history, especially if you have had unusual vaginal bleeding that remains unchecked, liver disease, a bleeding disorder, heart attack, stroke, blood clot, or cancer of the breast, uterus, cervix, or vagina.

To ensure your safety during treatment, also inform your doctor if you have had a history of heart disease, liver problems, jaundice, hereditary angioedema, epilepsy, kidney disease, gallbladder disease, asthma, migraines, lupus, porphyria, endometriosis or uterine fibroid tumors, thyroid disorder, or high calcium levels in the blood.

There are both common (less serious) and uncommon (serious) side effects associated with the use of Activella. If you have any concerns about any side effects you are experiencing, contact your doctor.

Some common side effects of Activella may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Stomach cramps
• Fluid retention
• Headache
• Breast pain
• Thinning scalp hair
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Menstrual cycle changes
• Breakthrough bleeding

Uncommon, yet serious side effects may include:

• Heart attack symptoms
• Stroke symptoms
• Blood clot symptoms
• Stomach swelling
• Tenderness
• Jaundice
• Cognitive impairment
• Confusion
• Abnormal behavior
• Abnormal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Breast lump
• High calcium levels in the blood

If you notice any uncommon side effects listed here, seek emergency medical assistance and call your doctor right away.

Can I smoke cigarettes during treatment with Activella?

Do not smoke when using Activella as it may seriously increase the potential risk of blood clots, stroke, or a heart attack.

How should I store my Activella when I’m not using it?

When it’s time to store your Activella medication, keep them in a cool, dry, and dark environment safely out of reach from young children and pets.