How To Apply Sandrena Gel?

Sandrena gel is a topical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that is used to treat the symptoms of menopause. 

It can be hard to understand how to apply Sandrena gel correctly, especially if you have been prescribed it for the first time. However, it is essential to use this gel correctly to maximise its effectiveness while reducing the chances of side effects.

This article provides a guide for the accurate application of Sandrena gel, a common HRT that contains synthetic oestrogen (estradiol) used to alleviate symptoms that occur after menopause.

Understanding Sandrena Gel Dosage and Sachet Sizes

Sachets of Sandrena gel commonly come in two sizes:

• 0.5 g of gel containing 0.5 mg of estradiol
• 1g of gel containing 1 mg of estradiol

Your doctor can prescribe a daily dose of Sandrena gel at 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 1.5 mg. Typically, your doctor will begin treatment at 0.5 mg and increase the dosage as required. It is essential to use only the dosage that your doctor prescribes.

How to Apply Sandrena Gel for Best Results

To maximise absorption and therefore obtain the best results, apply Sandren gel as outlined below, or follow the instructions in your patient leaflet. There is no optimal time for applying Sandrena gel. However, it’s best to choose the same time each day and pick a time that allows you to follow the application steps properly.

Before starting, ensure the area of skin where you will apply the gel is clean and dry. This should be on your upper thighs or lower body.

Useful tips to apply Sandrena Gel are as follows:

• Ensure your hands are clean and dry before handling the gel.
• Double-check the sachets to ensure you are applying the correct dosage.
• Spread the gel over an area roughly twice the size of your hand and gently rub it into your skin.
• Let the gel dry. This should take a few minutes.
• Wash your hands, and be especially careful not to touch your eyes with the gel.
• Do not clean the area where you applied the gel for at least one hour after application.
• Don’t let others touch the area until it is dry or you have cleaned it.

You should never swallow Sandrena gel. If you swallow it by accident do not worry, but contact your doctor.

How Often Should Sandrena Gel Be Applied?

You will be prescribed a daily dosage of Sandrena gel. Therefore, it should be applied once per day. If you accidentally apply too much, it is unlikely to cause an issue, though if you are worried, you should contact your doctor for advice. 

Consistently using too high a dose may lead to side effects such as tender breasts, anxiety, bloating, and nausea. These should disappear once the dosage is reduced.

Choosing the Best Area of Skin to Apply Sandrena Gel

For maximum effectiveness, Sandrena should be applied to the upper thighs and lower body. It doesn’t matter whether you apply Sandrena gel to the inner or outer thigh. 

However, it is important to avoid the genitals and alternate between different sides of your body each day. Do not use the same area of skin two days in a row, and alternate between different sides of your body each day. This will help with absorption.

It’s important to stick to the lower body when applying Sandrena gel. Applying it elsewhere increases the risk of side effects. Specific areas to avoid include:

• Breasts
• Face
• Irritated skin

Is Sandrena Gel Right For You?

There are some instances where you should not take Sandrena gel and should consult with your healthcare provider. These include:

Sandrena Gel Interactions with Other Drugs

Sandrena can affect treatments for other diseases like epilepsy, tuberculosis, HIV, and hepatitis C. You should always talk to your doctor about your current medication before using Sandrena gel.

Sandrena Gel Complications Around Surgery

It is essential to tell your surgeon that you are taking Sandrena gel as soon as possible. The gel has the potential to cause blood clots which can become a complication during surgery. 

You may need to stop taking Sandrena gel for a month or more before your surgery, and you should only start retaking it after surgery upon further consultation with your surgeon.

Avoid Sandrena Gel if Pregnant, Breastfeeding, or Menstruating

Sandrena gel is only prescribed for post-menopausal women. If you become pregnant while using Sandrena, stop immediately and consult your doctor. 

Furthermore, Sandrena is not a contraceptive. So, if it has been less than twelve months since your last menstrual period and you are under fifty years old, you may still need to use contraception to avoid pregnancy.

Conclusion

Correct application of Sandrena gel is essential to ensure its effectiveness and reduce side effects. 

You must follow the dosage outlined by your doctor and the guidelines described here or in the Sandrena gel patient leaflet.

If you have menopause symptoms that are impacting your life, speak to your doctor or one of our prescribers about a personalised HRT plan. You can find more information on HRT treatments or Sandrena gel on our website.

Authored & Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Published on: 19/09/2023 Reviewed on: 05/07/2024