the danger involved in switching generic estrogens

[Emily Ray]

I have been using oral E that I get from the VA for over a year. In August for some reason they switched manufacturers. What happened next was a nightmare. Apparently the new estrogen wasn't as effective in controling my testosterone production and it climbed from almost nonexistant at 9 ng/nl to 385 ng/nl in 20 days. My mood plumeted just as fast and I had to check myself into the hospital for my own protection. I have since learned that generics can be as much as 20% different in their bio-availability. If you are taking oral estrogens you can make sure the pharmacy fills your prescription with the same manufacturer. Don't run out though because there are shortages all the time and they may not have your brand when you need a refill.

Huggs

Emily

[pebbles]

I am aware of this it's a factor you have to account for when I self medicate. :/ It's not great and ideally I'd like perscribed hormones but that's not an option for me.

I know what you mean the amount marked on a estrogen vial of the stuff I get can be as much as 20-30% flux either way. (But usually down.)

[Ann Onymous]

Generic or name-brand makes no difference...not every pill is an equivalent to another manufacturer's product.  Years ago, my endo and I went through SEVERAL offerings before making a decision to go synthetic (which was the only thing my body responded to since I have one of those rock-star type livers).