Hormone Patch WON'T STICK!

I have been on a hormone patch since 1 hr. after my surgery almost 7 weeks ago. It is working great except they won't stick very well and 2 have come off and had to be replaced before time to change my patch. I am thinking of switching to the pill form but wonder if it will work as well as the patch since it is time released. Any replys or information would be appreciated. I hate to mess with it since it works so well but I fear with the hot weather and all coming up they will just come off even easier.

Hi Maci What brand of patch are you using? The generics have a reputation for not sticking well... most ladies have better luck with Climara, and the Vivelle dot is the 'stickiest' of them all.

Also, are you making sure your skin is clean and dry before applying the patch (no lotions, not even moisturizing body washes) and then pressing it and holding for ten seconds? Usually that will do the trick.

I know what you mean about not wanting to give up the patch for an oral estrogen when you're basically happy with the patch... so maybe switching brands might be a better alternative?

s,
-Linda

I know the generic patch did not stick well for me at all. I called the pharmacy to see what the difference in cost would be if I demanded Climara vs. having DR write a second perscription specifying no substitutes. They refilled with the Climara without me having to get DR involved.

When I told DR about it my next visit, he appologized for not specifying no substitutes on the first one. He said he had never had any ladies stay on the generic patch for long because of problems with them not sticking and being uncomfortable due to the size and bulk. Also said he didn't think (based on observations of his patient's symptoms) they provided as much medication as the Climara patch.

The other thing I found helped get the patch to stick while I was trying the generic was to wipe the area with alcohol and let it dry before applying. I have continued that with the Climara and haven't had any problems.

Maci,
Here's a thread with some tips on keeping the patch stuck http://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/sho...?threadid=3323

If the tips don't work you could ask your doctor about trying another brand of patches. There are several available. If you're using generic patches you could ask the doctor to specify no substitutions on your prescription and see if the name brand sticks better for you.

Hi,

I am using the Estraderm patch and told my pharmacist to tell the company that they do not stay on after showering. He said he's had many complaints. I've had to replace them twice when I shouldn't have.

When in the hospital the Estraderm patch was a fabric-backed patch, but when I filled prescription coming home, it's a thin, plastic patch - the fabric-backed easily stayed attached.

Good Luck!