Aerodiol versus the transdermal route: perspectives for patient preference

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Pharmacology
• Women's Health

Background:

• Menopausal hormone therapy is crucial for managing climacteric symptoms.
• Estrogen replacement therapy can be administered via various routes, including intranasal and transdermal methods.
• Comparing administration routes is vital for optimizing patient adherence and treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy, tolerability, and user preference of Aerodiol (intranasal 17 beta-estradiol) versus transdermal 17 beta-estradiol patches.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction and treatment choice between the two administration methods.
• To assess the impact of administration route on climacteric symptom management.

Main Methods:

• An open-label, multicenter, crossover trial involving postmenopausal women.
• Randomized assignment to Aerodiol (300 mcg daily) or transdermal patches (50 mcg/day) for 12 weeks, followed by crossover.
• Efficacy assessed by Kupperman index; tolerability and user satisfaction evaluated via questionnaires and treatment preference at week 16.

Main Results:

• Both Aerodiol and transdermal patches significantly reduced the Kupperman index and hot flushes.
• Statistically equivalent efficacy was observed for both treatments.
• Aerodiol showed a significantly lower incidence of moderate/severe mastalgia (breast pain) and higher user satisfaction and preference (66% vs. 34%) compared to transdermal patches.

Conclusions:

• Aerodiol and transdermal estrogen therapy demonstrate comparable efficacy and general tolerability for menopausal symptoms.
• Aerodiol offers superior user preference and satisfaction, potentially improving long-term compliance.
• Intranasal administration may be a favorable option for women seeking effective and well-tolerated menopausal symptom relief.