Generic estriodol patch vs Vivelle dot

Hi...I am two weeks post op (TLH BSO), 46 yrs old, was having perimenopause symptoms prior to surgery. Since surgery, no major menopause symptoms - increasing night sweats and some moodiness. Doc and I decided on bioidentical patch for HRT, she prescribed Climara before my surgery so I would have it as soon as needed. Pharmacy gave me generic (insurance requirement I am sure). Looked online, biggest complaint on generic is size. Started researching Vivelle DOT. Anyone use both? Pros or cons to either or both? Any help is greatly appreciated!! Thinking of asking Doc to prescribe Vivelle DOT no generic substitute if I can get it past insurance.....

Hi

Generic and name brand estradiol patches both contain the exact same hormones....bio-identical estradiol.

The Vivelle Dot is changed twice a week. This helps some women who have skin irritations due to the adhesive. You can (and should) place the patch in a different spot each time, alternating sides.

The Climara and the generic are both one week patches. The generic is larger and slightly thicker. The adhesives used are also different and some women who can't tolerate the generic adhesive find that they can tolerate the name brand. The thickness of the patch makes a big difference to some women.


Many women happily use the generic patch and have no problems with it at all. The brand names are more expensive and usually have a larger co-pay with insurance.

Hope this helped. Let us know what you decide.


Kay

Hi Karen. I started on the generic Climara, 1st reaction was you want me to wear this coaster? LOL. But was willing to give it a whirl. Didn't work for me...didn't stay on and when I did get it to stay I ended up having a reaction to the adhesive. Now on Vivelle dot, much better staying on no adhesive issues. I have a friend that uses generic Climara and has for years, never had an issue. Good luck with your decision. Kathy