Estraval Depot Injection (Estradiol Valerate Injection)

• Type: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and estrogen supplement

• Drug Class: Estrogen (long-acting form)

• Form: Oil-based solution for intramuscular (IM) injection

How It Works

• Estradiol valerate is a synthetic ester of estradiol (the main natural female estrogen).

• After injection, it is slowly broken down in the body, releasing estradiol into the bloodstream over time.

• It helps restore or supplement estrogen levels in people with estrogen deficiency or those needing estrogen therapy.

Common Uses

Estraval Depot is typically used for:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women with:

  • Menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness)

  • Premature ovarian failure or surgical menopause

• Hypoestrogenism due to hormonal imbalance

• Part of feminizing hormone therapy for transgender women

• In some fertility treatments to prepare the uterine lining (endometrium) for embryo implantation

Advantages

• Provides long-lasting estrogen levels with a single injection (effects last 2–4 weeks)

• Bypasses the liver (unlike oral estrogens), reducing some side effects

• Improves bone health, reducing risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

• Relieves menopausal symptoms effectively

Possible Side Effects

Common:

• Breast tenderness

• Nausea or bloating

• Mild headache

• Local pain at injection site

Less Common but Important:

• Fluid retention (swelling of ankles/feet)

• Changes in mood

• Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting

• Rare: increased risk of blood clots, stroke, or certain hormone-sensitive cancers (if used long-term without proper monitoring)

Precautions

• Should not be used in people with:

  • History of estrogen-dependent cancer (like breast or endometrial cancer)

  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding

  • History of blood clots, stroke, or liver disease

• Monitor regularly with pelvic exams, mammograms, and hormone levels

• Often combined with a progestogen in women with an intact uterus to prevent endometrial overgrowth (hyperplasia)