Treatment of urogenital atrophy with low-dose estradiol: preliminary results

To determine the lowest dosage of vaginally administered estradiol (E2) that reverses signs and symptoms of urogenital atrophy but does not substantially increase plasma E2 levels.

Single-blind, single-arm study to determine the effects of de-escalating doses of vaginal estrogen on symptoms of urogenital atrophy, vaginal pH, and vaginal and urethral cytology. A questionnaire was used to assess subjective vaginal and urethral symptoms. Objective measurements included vaginal and urethral cytology, pH, endometrial biopsy, and 24-h circulating plasma luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), E2, and estrone levels obtained in a Clinical Research Unit. Circulating E2 levels were assayed with an ultrasensitive yeast bioassay with a detection limit of 0.02 pg/mL. Measurements were obtained over a 24-h period after administration of vehicle alone, on day 1 after the initial vaginal E2 dosage, after 3 weeks of daily E2 administration, and after an additional 9 weeks of twice weekly administration.

From the first seven subjects studied at a 10-microg dose of E2, 100% responded according to predefined criteria. Vaginal cytology showed statistical improvement at 3 and 12 weeks. Urethral cytology was statistically improved after 12 weeks. Vaginal pH decreased from postmenopausal to premenopausal levels at both 3 and 12 weeks. Eighty-two percent of symptoms were cured or improved. Endometrium remained atrophic. Circulating E2 levels remained within the postmenopausal range of 3-10 pg/mL.

A 10-microg dose of vaginal E2 effectively treated urogenital atrophy in seven women and did not cause endometrial hyperplasia or increase E2 levels.