CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system)
estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system · Patch, Extended Release · Transdermal
Uses
CombiPatch is indicated in a woman with a uterus for: Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause. Treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy due to menopause. When prescribing solely for the treatment of symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, topical vaginal products should be considered. Treatment of hypoestrogenism due to hypogonadism, castration, or primary ovarian failure.
Dosage and administration
Generally, when estrogen therapy is prescribed for a postmenopausal woman with a uterus, a progestin should be considered to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. A woman without a uterus generally does not need a progestin. In some cases, however, hysterectomized women with a history of endometriosis may need a progestin. Use of estrogen-alone or in combination with a progestin, should be with the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Postmenopausal women should be reevaluated periodically as clinically appropriate to determine whether treatment is still necessary. Adequate diagnostic measures, such as directed or random endometrial sampling, when indicated, should be undertaken to rule out malignancy in a postmenopausal woman with a uterus with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding. Initiation of Therapy Patients should be started at the lowest dose. Estrogens with or without progestins should be prescribed at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. The lowest effective dose of CombiPatch has not been determined in clinical trials. Women not currently using continuous estrogen or combination estrogen plus progestin therapy may start therapy with CombiPatch at any time. However, women currently using continuous estrogen or combination estrogen plus progestin therapy should complete the current cycle of therapy, before initiating CombiPatch therapy. Women often experience withdrawal bleeding at the completion of the cycle. The first day of this bleeding would be an appropriate time to begin CombiPatch therapy. Therapeutic Regimens Combination estrogen plus progestin regimens are indicated for women with an intact uterus. Two CombiPatch (estradiol/NETA) transdermal delivery systems are available: 0.05 mg estradiol with 0.14 mg NETA per day (9 cm 2 ) and 0.05 mg estradiol with 0.25 mg NETA per day (16 cm 2 ). The lowest effective dose should be used. For all regimens, women should be reevaluated at 3- to 6-month intervals to determine if changes in hormone therapy or if continued hormone therapy is appropriate. Continuous Combined Regimen CombiPatch 0.05 mg estradiol/0.14 mg NETA per day (9 cm 2 ) matrix transdermal system is used for continuous uninterrupted treatment applied twice weekly on the lower abdomen. A new system should be applied to the skin every 3 to 4 days (twice weekly) during a 28-day cycle. Additionally, a dose of 0.05 mg estradiol/0.25 mg NETA (16 cm 2 system) is available if a greater progestin dose is desired. Irregular bleeding may occur particularly in the first six months, but generally decreases with time, and often to an amenorrheic state. Continuous Sequential Regimen CombiPatch can be applied as a sequential regimen in combination with an estradiol-only transdermal delivery system. In this treatment regimen, a 0.05 mg per day (nominal delivery rate) estradiol transdermal system (Vivelle-Dot ® ) is worn for the first 14 days of a 28-day cycle, replacing the system every 3 to 4 days (twice weekly) according to product directions. For the remaining 14 days of the 28-day cycle, CombiPatch 0.05 mg estradiol/0.14 mg NETA per day (9 cm 2 ) transdermal system should be worn continuously on the lower abdomen. The CombiPatch system should be replaced every 3 to 4 days (twice weekly) during this 14-day period in the 28-day cycle. Additionally, a dose of 0.05 mg estradiol/0.25 mg NETA (16 cm 2 system) is available if a greater progestin dose is desired. Women should be advised that monthly withdrawal bleeding often occurs. Application of the System Site Selection CombiPatch should be placed on a smooth (fold-free), clean, dry area of the skin on the lower abdomen. CombiPatch should not be applied to or near the breasts. The area selected should not be oily (which can impair adherence of the system), damaged, or irritated. The waistline should be avoided, since tight clothing may rub the system off or modify drug delivery. The sites of application must be rotated, with an interval of at least one week allowed between applications to the same site. Application After opening the pouch, remove 1 side of the protective liner, taking care not to touch the adhesive part of the transdermal delivery system with the fingers. Immediately apply the transdermal delivery system to a smooth (fold-free) area of skin on the lower abdomen. Remove the second side of the protective liner and press the system firmly in place with the hand for at least 10 seconds, making sure there is good contact, especially around the edges. Care should be taken that the system does not become dislodged during bathing and other activities. If a system should fall off, the same system may be reapplied to another area of the lower abdomen. If necessary, a new transdermal system may be applied, in which case, the original treatment schedule should be continued. Only 1 system should be worn at any 1 time during the 3- to 4-day dosing interval. Once in place, the transdermal system should not be exposed to the sun for prolonged periods of time. Removal of the System Removal of the system should be done carefully and slowly to avoid irritation of the skin. Should any adhesive remain on the skin after removal of the system, allow the area to dry for 15 minutes. Then gently rub the area with an oil-based cream or lotion to remove the adhesive residue.
Contraindications
CombiPatch is contraindicated in women with any of the following conditions: Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding. Known, suspected, or history of breast cancer. Known or suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasia. Active DVT, PE, or history of these conditions. Active arterial thromboembolic disease (for example, stroke and MI), or a history of these conditions. Known anaphylactic reaction or angioedema or hypersensitivity with CombiPatch. Known liver impairment or disease. Known protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders. Known or suspected pregnancy.
Warnings
See BOXED WARNING . 1. Cardiovascular Disorders An increased risk of PE, DVT, stroke and MI has been reported with estrogen plus progestin therapy. An increased risk of stroke and DVT has been reported with estrogen-alone therapy. Should any of these occur or be suspected, estrogen with or without progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately. Risk factors for arterial vascular disease (for example, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) and/or venous thromboembolism (VTE) (for example, personal history or family history of VTE, obesity, and systemic lupus erythematosus) should be managed appropriately. a. Stroke In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, a statistically significant increased risk of stroke was reported in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (33 versus 25 per 10,000 women-years). (See CLINICAL STUDIES ) The increase in risk was demonstrated after the first year and persisted. 1 Should a stroke occur or be suspected, estrogen plus progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately. In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, a statistically significant increased risk of stroke was reported in women 50 to 79 years of age receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to women in the same age group receiving placebo (45 versus 33 per 10,000 women-years). (See CLINICAL STUDIES ) The increase in risk was demonstrated in year 1 and persisted. Should a stroke occur or be suspected, estrogen-alone therapy should be discontinued immediately. Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest no increased risk of stroke for those women receiving CE (0.625 mg)-alone versus those receiving placebo (18 versus 21 per 10,000 women-years). 1 b. Coronary Heart Disease In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, there was a statistically non-significant increased risk of CHD events (defined as nonfatal MI, silent MI, or CHD death) reported in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to women receiving placebo (41 versus 34 per 10,000 women years). 1 An increase in relative risk was demonstrated in year 1, and a trend toward decreasing relative risk was reported in years 2 through 5 (See CLINICAL STUDIES ). In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, no overall effect on CHD events was reported in women receiving estrogen-alone compared to placebo. 2 (See CLINICAL STUDIES ) Subgroup analyses of women 50 to 59 years of age suggest a statistically nonsignificant reduction in CHD events (CE [0.625 mg]-alone compared to placebo) in women less than 10 years since menopause (8 versus 16 per 10,000 women-years). 1 In postmenopausal women with documented heart disease (n=2,763, average 66.7 years of age), in a controlled clinical trial of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study; HERS), treatment with daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) demonstrated no cardiovascular benefit. During an average follow-up of 4.1 years, treatment with CE plus MPA did not reduce the overall rate of CHD events in postmenopausal women with established CHD. There were more CHD events in the CE plus MPA-treated group than in the placebo group in year 1, but not during the subsequent years. Two thousand three hundred twenty-one (2,321) women from the original HERS trial agreed to participate in an open-label extension of HERS, HERS II. Average follow-up in HERS II was an additional 2.7 years, for a total of 6.8 years overall. Rates of CHD events were comparable among women in the CE plus MPA group and the placebo group in the HERS, the HERS II, and overall. c. Venous Thromboembolism In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy, a statistically significant 2-fold greater rate of VTE (DVT and PE) was reported in women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) compared to placebo (35 versus 17 per 10,000 women-years). Statistically significant increases in risk for both DVT (26 versus 13 per 10,000 women-years) and PE (18 versus 8 per 10,000 women years) were also demonstrated. The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first year and persisted. 3 (See CLINICAL STUDIES ) Should a VTE occur or be suspected, estrogen plus progestin therapy should be discontinued immediately. In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, the risk of VTE was reported to be increased for women receiving daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone compared to women receiving placebo (30 versus 22 per 10,000 women-years), although only the increased risk of DVT reached statistical significance (23 versus 15 per 10,000 women years). The increase in VTE risk was demonstrated during the first 2 years. 4 (See CLINICAL STUDIES ) Should a VTE occur or be suspected, estrogen-alone therapy should be discontinued immediately. If feasible, estrogens should be discontinued at least 4 to 6 weeks before surgery of the type associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, or during periods of prolonged immobilization. 2. Malignant Neoplasms a. Breast Cancer The WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg)-alone provided information about breast cancer in estrogen-alone users. In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy, after an average follow-up of 7.1 years, daily CE-alone was not associated with an increased risk of invasive breast cancer (relative risk [RR] 0.80) 5 [see CLINICAL STUDIES ]. After a mean follow-up of 5.6 years, the WHI substudy of daily CE (0.625 mg) plus MPA (2.5 mg) reported an increased risk of invasive breast cancer in women who took daily CE plus MPA compared to placebo. In this substudy, prior use of estrogen-alone or estrogen plus progestin therapy was reported by 26 percent of the women. The relative risk of invasive breast cancer was 1.24, and the absolute risk was 41 versus 33 cases per 10,000 women-years, for CE plus MPA compared with placebo.
Precautions
PRECAUTIONS A. General 1. Addition of a Progestin when a Woman has not had a Hysterectomy Studies of the addition of a progestin for 10 or more days of a cycle of estrogen administration, or daily with estrogen in a continuous regimen, have reported a lowered incidence of endometrial hyperplasia than would be induced by estrogen treatment alone. Endometrial hyperplasia may be a precursor to endometrial cancer. There are, however, possible risks that may be associated with the use of progestins with estrogens compared to estrogen-alone regimens. These include an increased risk of breast cancer. 2. Elevated Blood Pressure In a small number of case reports, substantial increases in blood pressure have been attributed to idiosyncratic reactions to estrogens. In a large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a generalized effect of estrogen therapy on blood pressure was not seen. 3. Hypertriglyceridemia In women with preexisting hypertriglyceridemia, estrogen therapy may be associated with elevations of plasma triglycerides leading to pancreatitis. Consider discontinuation of treatment if pancreatitis occurs. 4. Hepatic Impairment and/or Past History of Cholestatic Jaundice Although transdermally administered estrogen therapy avoids first-pass hepatic metabolism, estrogens may be poorly metabolized in women with impaired liver function. For women with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with past estrogen use or with pregnancy, caution should be exercised and in the case of recurrence, medication should be discontinued. 5. Hypothyroidism Estrogen administration leads to increased thyroid-binding globulin (TBG) levels. Women with normal thyroid function can compensate for the increased TBG by making more thyroid hormone, thus maintaining free T 4 and T 3 serum concentrations in the normal range. Women dependent on thyroid hormone replacement therapy who are also receiving estrogens may require increased doses of their thyroid replacement therapy. These women should have their thyroid function monitored in order to maintain their free thyroid hormone levels in an acceptable range. 6. Fluid Retention Estrogens plus progestins may cause some degree of fluid retention. Women with conditions which might be influenced by this factor, such as cardiac or renal impairment warrant careful observation when estrogens plus progestins are prescribed. 7. Hypocalcemia Estrogen therapy should be used with caution in women with hypoparathyroidism as estrogen-induced hypocalcemia may occur. 8. Exacerbation of Endometriosis A few cases of malignant transformation of residual endometrial implants have been reported in women treated post-hysterectomy with estrogen-alone therapy. For women known to have residual endometriosis post-hysterectomy, the addition of progestin should be considered. 9. Exacerbation of Other Conditions Estrogen therapy may cause an exacerbation of asthma, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, migraine or porphyria, systemic lupus erythematosus, and hepatic hemangiomas and should be used with caution in women with these conditions. B. Patient Information Physicians are advised to discuss the content of the PATIENT INFORMATION leaflet and INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE with patients for whom they prescribe CombiPatch. C. Laboratory Tests Serum FSH and estradiol levels have not been shown to be useful in the management of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms and moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy. Laboratory parameters may be useful in guiding dosage for the treatment of hypoestrogenism due to hypogonadism, castration and primary ovarian failure. D. Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions 1. Accelerated prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and platelet aggregation time; increased platelet count; increased factors II, VII antigen, VIII antigen, VIII coagulant activity, IX, X, XII, VII-X complex, II-VII-X complex; and beta-thromboglobulin; decreased levels of anti-factor Xa and antithrombin III; decreased antithrombin III activity; increased levels of fibrinogen and fibrinogen activity; increased plasminogen antigen and activity. 2. Increased TBG leading to increased circulating total thyroid hormone, as measured by protein-bound iodine (PBI), T 4 levels (by column or by radioimmunoassay) or T 3 levels by radioimmunoassay. T 3 resin uptake is decreased, reflecting the elevated TBG. Free T 4 and free T 3 concentrations are unaltered. Women on thyroid replacement therapy may require higher doses of thyroid hormone. 3. Other binding proteins may be elevated in serum (i.e., corticosteroid binding globulin [CBG], SHBG), leading to increased circulating corticosteroids and sex steroids, respectively. Free hormone concentrations, such as testosterone and estradiol, may be decreased. Other plasma proteins may be increased (angiotensinogen/renin substrate, alpha-1-antitrypsin, ceruloplasmin). 4. Increased plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) and HDL-2 subfraction concentrations, reduced low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentration, increased triglycerides levels. 5. Impaired glucose tolerance. E. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term continuous administration of natural and synthetic estrogens in certain animal species increases the frequency of carcinomas of the breast, uterus, cervix, vagina, testis, and liver. NETA was not mutagenic in a battery of in vitro or in vivo genetic toxicity assays. F. Pregnancy CombiPatch should not be used during pregnancy. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS .) There appears to be little or no increased risk of birth defects in children born to women who have used estrogens and progestins as an oral contraceptive inadvertently during early pregnancy. G. Nursing Mothers CombiPatch should not be used during lactation. Estrogen administration to nursing women has been shown to decrease the quantity and quality of the breast milk.
Side effects
See BOXED WARNING , WARNINGS , and PRECAUTIONS . Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Table 9. All Adverse Reactions Regardless of Relationship Reported at a Frequency of Greater than or Equal to 5 percent with CombiPatch VASOMOTOR SYMPTOM STUDIES CombiPatch 0.05/0.14 mg per day† CombiPatch 0.05/0.25 mg per day† Placebo n=113 n=112 n=107 Body as a Whole 46% 48% 41% Abdominal Pain 7% 6% 4% Accidental Injury 4% 5% 8% Asthenia 8% 12% 4% Back Pain 11% 9% 5% Flu Syndrome 9% 5% 7% Headache 18% 20% 20% Pain 6% 4% 9% Digestive 19% 23% 24% Diarrhea 4% 5% 7% Dyspepsia 1% 5% 5% Flatulence 4% 5% 4% Nausea 11% 8% 7% Nervous 16% 28% 28% Depression 3% 5% 9% Insomnia 3% 6% 7% Nervousness 3% 5% 1% Respiratory 24% 38% 26% Pharyngitis 4% 10% 2% Respiratory Disorder 7% 12% 7% Rhinitis 7% 13% 9% Sinusitis 4% 9% 9% Skin and Appendages 8% 17% 16% Application Site Reaction* 2% 6% 4% Urogenital 54% 63% 28% Breast Pain 25% 31% 7% Dysmenorrhea 20% 21% 5% Leukorrhea 5% 5% 3% Menstrual Disorder 6% 12% 2% Papanicolaou Smear Suspicious 8% 4% 5% Vaginitis 6% 13% 5% †Represents milligrams of estradiol/NETA delivered daily by each system. *Application site reactions includes localized bleeding, bruising, burning, discomfort, dryness, eczema, edema, erythema, inflammation, irritation, pain, papules, paresthesia, pruritus, rash, skin discoloration, skin pigmentation, swelling, urticaria, and vesicles. Table 10. All Adverse Reactions Regardless of Relationship Reported at a Frequency of Greater than or Equal to 5 percent with CombiPatch ENDOMETRIAL HYPERPLASIA STUDIES CombiPatch 0.05/0.14 mg per day† n=325 CombiPatch 0.05/0.25 mg per day† n=312 Vivelle 0.05 mg per day n=318 Body as a Whole 61% 60% 59% Abdominal Pain 12% 14% 16% Accidental Injury 10% 11% 8% Asthenia 10% 13% 11% Back Pain 15% 14% 13% Flu Syndrome 14% 10% 7% Headache 25% 17% 21% Infection 5% 3% 3% Pain 19% 15% 13% Digestive 42% 32% 31% Constipation 2% 5% 3% Diarrhea 14% 9% 7% Dyspepsia 8% 6% 5% Flatulence 7% 5% 6% Nausea 8% 12% 11% Tooth Disorder 6% 4% 1% Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders 12% 13% 11% Peripheral Edema 6% 6% 5% Musculoskeletal 17% 17% 15% Arthralgia 6% 6% 5% Nervous 33% 30% 28% Depression 8% 9% 8% Dizziness 6% 7% 5% Insomnia 8% 6% 4% Nervousness 5% 6% 3% Respiratory 45% 43% 40% Bronchitis 5% 3% 4% Pharyngitis 9% 9% 8% Respiratory Disorder 13% 9% 13% Rhinitis 19% 22% 17% Sinusitis 10% 12% 12% Skin and Appendages 38% 37% 31% Acne 4% 5% 4% Application Site Reaction* 20% 23% 17% Rash 6% 5% 3% Urogenital 71% 79% 74% Breast Enlargement 2% 7% 2% Breast Pain 34% 48% 40% Dysmenorrhea 30% 31% 19% Leukorrhea 10% 8% 9% Menorrhagia 2% 5% 9% Menstrual Disorder 17% 19% 14% Vaginal Hemorrhage 3% 6% 12% Vaginitis 9% 13% 13% †Represents milligrams of estradiol/NETA delivered daily by each system. *Application site reactions includes localized bleeding, bruising, burning, discomfort, dryness, eczema, edema, erythema, inflammation, irritation, pain, papules, paresthesia, pruritus, rash, skin discoloration, skin pigmentation, swelling, urticaria, and vesicles. Postmarketing Experience The following additional adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of CombiPatch. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Genitourinary System Endometrial hyperplasia, endocervical polyp, uterine leiomyomata, fallopian tube cyst, uterine spasms. Breast Breast cancer. Cardiovascular Hypertension, varicose veins. Gastrointestinal Jaundice cholestatic, cholelithiasis, gall bladder disorder, transaminases increased. Skin Skin discoloration. Central Nervous System Affect lability, libido disorder, migraine, vertigo, paresthesia. Miscellaneous Angioedema, hypersensitivity, weight increased.
Drug interactions
Drug Interactions No drug interaction studies have been conducted with CombiPatch. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that estrogens are metabolized partially by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Therefore, inducers or inhibitors of CYP3A4 may affect estrogen drug metabolism. Inducers of CYP3A4 such as St. John’s wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) preparations, anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital, phenytoin and carbamazepine), phenylbutazone, and anti-infectives (e.g., rifampin, rifabutin, nevirapine and efavirenz) may reduce plasma concentrations of estrogens, possibly resulting in a decrease in therapeutic effects and/or changes in the uterine bleeding profile. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, nelfinavir and grapefruit juice may increase plasma concentrations of estrogens and may result in side effects. Adhesion Averaging across 6 clinical trials lasting 3 months to 1 year, of 1,287 patients treated, CombiPatch transdermal systems completely adhered to the skin nearly 90 percent of the time over the 3- to 4-day wear period. Less than 2 percent of the patients required reapplication or replacement of systems due to lifting or detachment. Two patients (0.2 percent) discontinued therapy during clinical trials due to adhesion failure.
Pregnancy
F. Pregnancy CombiPatch should not be used during pregnancy. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS .) There appears to be little or no increased risk of birth defects in children born to women who have used estrogens and progestins as an oral contraceptive inadvertently during early pregnancy.
Pediatric use
H. Pediatric Use CombiPatch is not indicated in children. Clinical studies have not been conducted in the pediatric population.
Geriatric use
I. Geriatric Use There have not been sufficient numbers of geriatric women involved in studies utilizing CombiPatch to determine whether those over 65 years of age differ from younger subjects in their response to CombiPatch. The Women’s Health Initiative Studies In the WHI estrogen plus progestin substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg] plus MPA [2.5 mg] versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of nonfatal stroke and invasive breast cancer in women greater than 65 years of age. (See CLINICAL STUDIES . ) In the WHI estrogen-alone substudy (daily CE [0.625 mg]-alone versus placebo), there was a higher relative risk of stroke in women greater than 65 years of age. (See CLINICAL STUDIES . ) The Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study In the WHIMS ancillary studies of postmenopausal women 65 to 79 years of age, there was an increased risk of developing probable dementia in women receiving estrogen plus progestin or estrogen-alone when compared to placebo. (See CLINICAL STUDIES and WARNINGS , Probable Dementia . ) Since both ancillary studies were conducted in women 65 to 79 years of age, it is unknown whether these findings apply to younger postmenopausal women. (See CLINICAL STUDIES and WARNINGS , Probable Dementia . )
Overdosage
Overdosage of estrogen or estrogen plus progestin may cause nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, drowsiness and fatigue, and withdrawal bleeding may occur in women. Treatment of overdose consists of discontinuation of CombiPatch therapy with institution of appropriate symptomatic care.
Description
CombiPatch ® (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system) is an adhesive-based matrix transdermal patch designed to release both estradiol, an estrogen, and norethindrone acetate (NETA), a progestational agent, continuously upon application to intact skin. Two systems are available, providing the following in vivo delivery rates of estradiol and NETA. 1 NETA=norethindrone acetate. 2 Based on in vivo/in vitro flux data, delivery of both components per day via skin of average permeability (interindividual variation in skin permeability is approximately 20 percent). System Size Estradiol (mg) NETA 1 (mg) Nominal Delivery Rate 2 (mg per day) Estradiol / NETA 9 cm 2 round 0.62 2.7 0.05/0.14 16 cm 2 round 0.51 4.8 0.05/0.25 Estradiol USP (estradiol) is a white to creamy white, odorless, crystalline powder, chemically described as estra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17 β -diol. The molecular weight of estradiol is 272.39 and the molecular formula is C 18 H 24 O 2 . NETA USP is a white to creamy white, odorless, crystalline powder, chemically described as 17-hydroxy-19-nor-17α-pregn-4-en-20-yn-3-one acetate. The molecular weight of NETA is 340.47 and the molecular formula is C 22 H 28 O 3 . The structural formulas for estradiol and NETA are: CombiPatch is comprised of 3 layers. Proceeding from the visible surface toward the surface attached to the skin, these layers are (1) a translucent polyolefin film backing, (2) an adhesive layer containing estradiol, NETA, acrylic adhesive, silicone adhesive, oleic acid NF, povidone USP and dipropylene glycol, and (3) a polyester release protective liner, which is attached to the adhesive surface and must be removed before the system can be used. The active components of the system are estradiol USP and NETA USP. The remaining components of the system are pharmacologically inactive. Chemical Structure Layer
How supplied
CombiPatch estradiol/NETA transdermal delivery system is available in: System Nominal Delivery Rate * Size Estradiol/NETA Presentation NDC Markings 9 cm 2 0.05/0.14 mg per day 8 systems per carton 68968-0514-8 CombiPatch 0.05/0.14 mg per day 16 cm 2 0.05/0.25 mg per day 8 systems per carton 68968-0525-8 CombiPatch 0.05/0.25 mg per day * Nominal delivery rate described. See DESCRIPTION for more details regarding drug delivery. Storage Conditions Store CombiPatch in the refrigerator at 36℉ to 46℉ (2℃ to 8℃). Store the systems in the sealed foil pouch. Do not store the system in areas where extreme temperatures can occur. Keep this and all medicines out of the reach of children. Vivelle® is a registered trademark of Novartis Corporation. & Vivelle-Dot ® is a registered trademark of Novartis AG.
Patient information
B. Patient Information Physicians are advised to discuss the content of the PATIENT INFORMATION leaflet and INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE with patients for whom they prescribe CombiPatch. Patient Information CombiPatch (käm-bē `pach) (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system) Read this Patient Information before you start using CombiPatch and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your menopausal symptoms or your treatment. What is the most important information I should know about CombiPatch (a combination of estrogen and progestin hormones)? Do not use estrogens with progestins to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, or dementia (decline of brain function). Using estrogens with progestins may increase your chances of getting heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, or blood clots. Using estrogens with progestins may increase your chance of getting dementia, based on a study of women 65 years of age or older. Do not use estrogen-alone to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes or dementia. Using estrogen-alone may increase your chances of getting cancer of the uterus (womb). Using estrogen-alone may increase your chance of getting stroke or blood clots. Using estrogen-alone may increase your chance of getting dementia, based on a study of women 65 years of age or older. You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with CombiPatch. What is CombiPatch? CombiPatch is a prescription medicine patch (Transdermal System) that contains 2 kinds of hormones, estrogen and progestin. What is CombiPatch used for? CombiPatch is used after menopause to: Reduce moderate to severe hot flashes Estrogens are hormones made by a woman’s ovaries. The ovaries normally stop making estrogens when a woman is between 45 and 55 years old. This drop in body estrogen levels causes the “change of life” or menopause (the end of monthly menstrual periods). Sometimes, both ovaries are removed during an operation before natural menopause takes place. The sudden drop in estrogen levels causes “surgical menopause.” When estrogen levels begin dropping, some women get very uncomfortable symptoms, such as feelings of warmth in the face, neck, and chest or sudden strong feelings of heat and sweating (“hot flashes” or “hot flushes”). In some women, the symptoms are mild, and they will not need to use estrogens. In other women, symptoms can be more severe. Treat moderate to severe menopausal changes in and around your vagina You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with CombiPatch to control these problems. If you use CombiPatch only to treat menopausal changes in and around your vagina, talk with your healthcare provider about whether a topical vaginal product would be better for you. Treat certain conditions in women before menopause if their ovaries do not make enough estrogens naturally. You and your healthcare provider should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with CombiPatch. Who should not use CombiPatch? Do not use CombiPatch if you have had your uterus (womb) removed (hysterectomy). CombiPatch contains a progestin to decrease the chance of getting cancer of the uterus. If you do not have a uterus, you do not need a progestin and you should not use CombiPatch. Do not start using CombiPatch if you: have unusual vaginal bleeding Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus (womb). Your healthcare provider should check any unusual vaginal bleeding to find out the cause. currently have or have had certain cancers Estrogens may increase the chance of getting certain types of cancers, including cancer of the breast or uterus. If you have or have had cancer, talk with your health care provider about whether you should use CombiPatch. had a stroke or heart attack currently have or have had blood clots currently have or have had liver problems have been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder are allergic to CombiPatch or any of its ingredients See the list of ingredients in CombiPatch at the end of this leaflet. think you may be pregnant CombiPatch is not for pregnant women. If you think you may be pregnant, you should have a pregnancy test and know the results. Do not use CombiPatch if the test result is positive and talk to your healthcare provider. What should I tell my healthcare provider before I use CombiPatch? Before you use CombiPatch, tell your healthcare provider if you: have any unusual vaginal bleeding Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus (womb). Your healthcare provider should check any unusual vaginal bleeding to find out the cause. have any other medical conditions Your healthcare provider may need to check you more carefully if you have certain conditions such as asthma (wheezing), epilepsy (seizures), diabetes, migraine, endometriosis, lupus, angioedema (swelling of face and tongue), or problems with your heart, liver, thyroid, kidneys, or have high calcium levels in your blood. are going to have surgery or will be on bed rest Your healthcare provider will let you know if you need to stop using CombiPatch. are breastfeeding The hormones in CombiPatch can pass into your breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take , including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines may affect how CombiPatch works. CombiPatch may also affect how other medicines work. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get new medicine. How should I use CombiPatch? For detailed instructions, see the step-by-step instructions for using CombiPatch at the end of this Patient Information. Use CombiPatch exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it. CombiPatch is for skin use only.
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Noven Therapeutics, LLC (revised Feb 21, 2024). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Estradiol in 2 products
- Norethindrone Acetate in 2 products
CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system) NDC products (2)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 68968-0514 | Estradiol .05 mg/d; Norethindrone Acetate .14 mg/d Patch, Extended Release | Noven Therapeutics, LLC | NDA |
| 68968-0525 | Estradiol .05 mg/d; Norethindrone Acetate .25 mg/d Patch, Extended Release | Noven Therapeutics, LLC | NDA |
CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system) recalls
- D-0724-2021 Aug 25, 2021 · Class II · Ongoing
Failed Stability Specifications; out of specification for shear. - D-0725-2021 Aug 25, 2021 · Class II · Ongoing
Failed Stability Specifications; out of specification for shear.
Frequently asked questions
What is CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system) used for?
CombiPatch is indicated in a woman with a uterus for: Treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to menopause. Treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy due to menopause. When prescribing solely for the treatment of symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy, topical vaginal products should be considered. Treatment of hypoestrogenism due to hypogonadism,…
What are the side effects of CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system)?
See BOXED WARNING , WARNINGS , and PRECAUTIONS . Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Table 9. All Adverse Reactions Regardless of Relationship Reported at a Frequency of… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system)?
CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system) is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Noven Therapeutics, LLC.
Has CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system) been recalled?
The FDA enforcement database lists 2 recalls for CombiPatch (estradiol/norethindrone acetate transdermal system), most recently D-0724-2021 (class ii): Failed Stability Specifications; out of specification for shear.