Frequently Used Medications Guide

This guide provides general information on storing and using medications.

Always follow the instructions on your medicine label and the plan in your clinic letter. If you are unsure about how to use your medication, or if you have concerns about side effects, please contact your care team or pharmacist.

iconLast updated 19th Sep 2026
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Androfeme

Medication type

Testosterone cream

Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep away from moisture, heat and sunlight. Do not freeze.

  1. Remove the cap and film covering.
  2. Gently squeeze the tube to move the cream towards the top.
  3. Insert the tip of the syringe into the tube.
  4. Gently squeeze the base of the tube while slowly withdrawing the plunger to draw the cream into the applicator barrel.
  5. Fill slightly past the required dose mark (for example 0.5 mL) to remove air bubbles, then push the plunger back to the correct dose mark.
  1. Remove the applicator from the tube and replace the tube cap.
  2. Apply the cream directly to clean, dry skin on the upper outer thigh, lower abdomen or buttock by depressing the plunger.
  3. Massage the cream into the skin until fully absorbed, usually around 30 seconds.
  4. Rotate application sites to reduce the risk of localised hair growth.
  5. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after application.
  6. Rinse the syringe in hot water and allow it to dry.

Dispose of empty tubes and syringes in household waste.

  • A small amount of cream remains in the syringe tip. This is expected and is accounted for in dosing.
  • Once you are confident with dosing, your clinician may advise applying directly from the tube onto your finger.

Estradot Patches

Medication type

Oestrogen patch


Store each patch in its original foil packet until use. Keep at room temperature, away from direct heat and out of the reach of children.


  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear the pouch along the edge and remove the patch.
  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto a skin area below the waist.
  3. Remove the remaining liner.
  4. Press the patch firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds, making sure the edges stick well.
  5. Wash your hands after applying.

Dispose of used patches and empty packaging in household waste.



  • Estradot patches are usually changed twice weekly on the same days each week.
  • If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Estriol Cream

Medication type

Vaginal oestrogen cream


Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture.


  1. Remove the cap and use the pointed tip on the cap to pierce the tube seal.
  2. If using internally, screw the open end of the reusable plastic applicator onto the tube.
  3. Squeeze the tube from the bottom with both hands to fill the applicator barrel up to the red ring mark.
  4. The plunger stops automatically at the correct dose (standard dose is 0.5 g of cream, containing 0.5 mg estriol).
  5. Unscrew the filled applicator from the tube and replace the cap on the tube.
  1. Lie on your back with knees bent and apart, or stand in a comfortable position.
  2. Insert the open end of the applicator into the vagina as far as comfortable.
  3. Push the plunger slowly and steadily all the way in to empty the cream.
  4. Keep the plunger pressed down as you gently remove the applicator.
  5. After use, pull the plunger fully out of the barrel and wash both parts in warm, soapy water.
  6. Rinse well with clean water and allow to dry.
  7. Do not use detergents or boiling water.
  8. If advised, the cream can also be applied to the vulva using fingertips.

Dispose of empty tubes and applicators in household waste.



  • There are two different strengths of estriol cream in use: 0.1 percent (standard) and 0.01 percent (low dose). Check your prescription and clinic letter.

Evorel Patches

Medication type

Oestrogen patch


Store in the original unopened pouch at room temperature (at or below 25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and out of sight and reach of children.


  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear open the sachet along the notched edge when you are ready to apply the patch.
  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto a skin area below the waist.
  3. Remove the remaining liner.
  4. Press firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds, making sure the edges stick well.
  5. Wash your hands after applying.

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.



  • Evorel patches are usually changed twice weekly on the same days each week.
  • If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Evorel Conti Patches

Medication type

Combined oestrogen and progesterone patch


Store in the original unopened pouch and carton at room temperature (at or below 25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and out of sight and reach of children.


  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear open the sachet along the notched edge when you are ready to apply the patch.
  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto a skin area below the waist.
  3. Remove the remaining liner.
  4. Press firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds, making sure the edges stick well.
  5. Wash your hands after applying.

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.



  • Evorel Conti patches are usually changed twice weekly on the same days each week.
  • If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Evorel Sequi Patches

Medication type

Sequential oestrogen and combined patches


Store in the original unopened pouch and carton at room temperature (at or below 25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and out of sight and reach of children.


  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear open the sachet along the notched edge when you are ready to apply the patch.
  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto a skin area below the waist.
  3. Remove the remaining liner.
  4. Press firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds, making sure the edges stick well.
  5. Wash your hands after applying.

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.



  • Evorel Sequi packs contain two types of patches. Unless you have been advised otherwise, you usually start with Evorel 50 patches for the first 2 weeks, then switch to Evorel Conti patches for the next 2 weeks.
  • Patches are usually changed twice weekly on the same days each week.
  • If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and return to your usual schedule.
  • Always follow your clinic letter if your schedule differs.

Lenzetto Spray

Medication type

Oestrogen spray


Store at room temperature, typically below 25°C.


  1. Prime a new container before first use. This only needs to be done once per container.
  2. Keep the cover on and hold the container upright.
  3. Press the button down fully three times.
  4. Mark the three priming sprays on the dose tracker on the carton if helpful.
  1. Apply to clean, dry, unbroken skin on the inner thigh or forearm.
  2. Avoid the face, breasts and genital area.
  3. Remove the plastic cover and hold the container upright.
  4. Rest the plastic cone flat against the skin so there are no gaps.
  5. Press the button down fully once for a single dose.
  6. If prescribed more than one spray, move to an adjacent, non overlapping area for each spray.
  7. Allow to dry for at least 2 minutes before dressing. Do not rub or massage it in.
  8. Wait at least 60 minutes before bathing, swimming or washing the area.
  9. Avoid skin contact with others until the area is dry. Take care to prevent children and pets from touching the application site.

Return finished devices to a pharmacy, as they may contain a small amount of hormone.


  • The spray contains alcohol and is flammable until dry. Keep away from open flames, lit cigarettes and hot devices until it has fully dried.
  • Lenzetto delivers 56 sprays after priming. Marking the dose tracker can help you keep count.

Oestrogel

Medication type

Oestrogen gel


Store at room temperature, typically below 25°C. Keep out of reach of children and away from direct sunlight.


  1. Before first use, remove the lid.
  2. Press the plunger down a few times until gel comes out.
  3. Do not use the first gel from the pump. Discard it.
  4. The pump is now ready for use.
  1. Make sure your hands and the skin you are applying to are clean, dry and unbroken.
  2. Hold the pump in one hand and place your other hand under the spout.
  3. Press the plunger down firmly to dispense one measure of gel.
  4. Apply to the upper outer arm and shoulder or the mid inner thigh. Avoid the breasts and genital area.
  5. Spread the gel over a large area of skin.
  6. If prescribed more than one pump, apply further pumps to different arms or thighs. If using 4 pumps, aim for one pump per limb.
  7. Replace the lid and allow the gel to dry for around 5 minutes before dressing.
  8. Wash your hands after application to reduce the risk of transferring gel to other parts of your body or to other people or pets.
  9. Try to apply the gel at roughly the same time each day.
  1. If the bottle is empty, replace the lid and dispose of it in household waste (not recycling unless your local council allows).
  2. Return unused or partially used bottles to a pharmacy.


  • The pump is empty when the plunger does not return after pressing. When this happens, stop using it and start a new bottle.
  • Avoid showering or swimming for at least 2 hours after applying.

Progesterone Capsules (micronised progesterone)

Medication type

Oral progesterone capsule


Store at room temperature, typically below 25°C. Keep in the original blister pack and packaging, and out of reach of children.


  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Remove the capsule from the packaging.
  1. Take the capsule at bedtime with a glass of water.
  2. Take on an empty stomach, ideally 2 hours after eating.
  3. Your prescription may be for one capsule every night, or two capsules for 12 to 14 days of your cycle. Follow the instructions on your prescription and clinic letter.
  4. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose.

Dispose of empty packaging and blister packs in household waste. Return unused medication to a pharmacy.


  • Some brands contain soybean lecithin. If you have a soya or peanut allergy, check with your pharmacist before taking.
  • Progesterone can cause drowsiness. Taking it at night may reduce daytime sleepiness.

Sandrena Gel

Medication type

Oestrogen gel sachet


Store at room temperature, typically below 25°C. Keep out of reach of children and away from direct sunlight.


  1. Wash your hands before use.
  1. Make sure your hands and the application skin are clean, dry and unbroken.
  2. Apply to the upper thigh or lower abdomen below the waist.
  3. Hold the sachet upright with the tear notch at the top.
  4. Tear along the notch using your fingers.
  5. Squeeze the gel slowly onto the skin, making sure the sachet is empty.
  6. Rub in gently and allow to dry for around 5 minutes before dressing.
  7. Wash your hands after application to reduce the risk of transferring gel to other areas, people or pets.
  8. If prescribed more than one sachet daily, repeat using a new sachet.
  9. Try to apply at roughly the same time each day.

Dispose of empty sachets in household waste. They cannot be recycled. Return unused sachets to a pharmacy.


  • Avoid showering or swimming for at least 2 hours after applying.

Utrogestan Capsules (100 mg)

Medication type

Progesterone capsule


Store below 30°C in the original packaging, away from moisture and light, and out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze.


  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Remove the capsule from the packaging.
  1. Take with a glass of water at bedtime.
  2. Take on an empty stomach, ideally 2 hours after food.
  3. Your prescription may be one capsule nightly or two capsules for 12 to 14 days of your cycle. Follow your prescription and clinic letter.
  4. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose.

Dispose of empty packaging and blister packs in household waste. Return unused medication to a pharmacy.


  • Utrogestan contains soya. If you have a soya or peanut allergy, check with your pharmacist before use.
  • The dose and route may vary. Follow your clinician instructions and ask if you are unsure.
  • May cause drowsiness. Night time use may help reduce daytime sleepiness.

Estradiol Vaginal Pessaries (Vagirux or Vagifem)

Medication type

Vaginal oestrogen pessary


Store below 30°C in the original packaging, away from moisture and light, and out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze.


  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Remove the applicator device from its sealing foil, opening the plunger end first.
  3. Vagifem pessaries come ready loaded in the applicator.
  4. For Vagirux, insert the pessary into the applicator:
    1. Gently pull the plunger out until you hear one click, then keep pulling until it stops. Do not pull past a second click.
    2. Take a vaginal tablet from the blister pack and place it firmly into the holder at the wide end of the applicator until it is secure.
  1. Choose a comfortable position. You can stand with one leg raised, or lie on your back with knees bent.
  2. Insert the applicator gently into the vagina as far as comfortable (around 8 to 10 cm), without force.
  3. Press the plunger with your index finger until it stops and you hear or feel a click.
  4. Remove the applicator. The tablet sticks to the vaginal wall and should not fall out.
  5. If using Vagirux, clean the reusable applicator after use:
    1. Pull the applicator apart into the tube and plunger.
    2. Wash with mild soap and rinse with warm tap water for around 5 seconds.
    3. Shake off excess water and allow both parts to air dry on a clean surface.
    4. Reinsert the plunger into the tube for the next use.
  1. Vagifem applicators are single use. Dispose of them in household waste. Do not flush down the toilet.
  2. Vagirux applicators can be reused up to 24 times, then should be discarded in household waste or recycled if your local guidance allows. Use a new applicator with each new pack.


  • It can take 8 to 12 weeks to feel the full benefit. Continue using as prescribed even if symptoms improve.
  • If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Estring

Medication type

Vaginal oestrogen ring


Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight, keep in the original foil pouch until you are ready to use it and out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze.


  1. Wash your hands before use
  2. Remove the ring from the pouch.
  3. Find a comfortable position- standing with one leg raised, squatting or lying on back with legs bent.
  1. Squeeze the ring between your fingers to make it oval
  2. Gently insert the ring into the vagina as far as it is comfortable.
  3. The ring stays in for 90 days
  4. You can shower, bathe, exercise and have sex with it in (it does not usually need to be removed)
  1. Wash your hands before removal
  2. Insert one finger into your vagina
  3. Hook your finger around the ring
  4. Gently pull out
  5. Insert the new ring immediately after removal if replacing

Dispose of the ring in household waste.


  • If the ring falls out, rinse in lukewarm water immediately and reinsert as soon as possible. Please let your healthcare provider know if this happens.
  • It can take 8-12 weeks to feel the full benefit.

Bijuve

Medication type

Combined oestrogen and progesterone tablet (micronised)


Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the capsules in the original blister pack and carton to protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze and keep out of reach of children.


  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Remove the capsule from the packaging.
  1. Take one capsule once a day, do not chew, crush or open the capsule
  2. Take it by mouth with some water.
  3. Take it at bedtime as can cause drowsiness.
  • Take any unused/unwanted or expired capsules back to your pharmacist.
  • Do not flush any capsules down the toilet or sink. Do not put any unused capsules in household waste.


What to do if you forget a dose: If you remember within 12 hours of your usual time, take the capsule as soon as you remember. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose, and take your next capsule at the usual time.

Desogestrel

Medication type

Progesterone only contraceptive pill


Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the tablets in the original blister pack and carton to protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze and keep out of reach of children.

  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Take the tablet out of the packaging.
  1. Take with a glass of water at the same time each day.
  2. Swallow tablet whole, (do not crush or chew).
  3. Take as prescribed every day.

Return any unused or out-of-date tablets to your pharmacist, do not put unused tablets in household waste.


  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
  • If you are using this for contraception and you take it over 12 hours lat,e you will need to use extra protection for the next 48 hours.
  • If you have had unprotected intercourse in the last 5 days and you are taking it over 12 hours late, you should contact your health care provider or pharmacist to discuss emergency contraception.

Femoston 1mg/2mg

Medication type

Combined oral oestrogen and progesterone


Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the tablets in the original blister pack and carton to protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze and keep out of reach of children.

  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Take the tablet out of the packaging.
  1. Take with a glass of water at the same time each day.
  2. Swallow tablet whole, (do not crush or chew).
  3. Take as prescribed every day.

Return any unused or out-of-date tablets to your pharmacist, do not put unused tablets in household waste.


If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed tablet, take your next tablet at the usual time.


Estraderm

Medication type

Oestrogen-only patch


Store in the original unopened pouch and carton at room temperature (at or below 25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and out of sight and reach of children.

  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear open the sachet along the notched edge when you are ready to apply the patch.
  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto the skin area below the waist (lower abdomen, upper thigh or buttock).
  3. Remove the remaining liner.
  4. Press firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds making sure all the edges stick well.
  5. Wash your hands after applying

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.


  • Estraderm patches are normally changed twice weekly on the same days of the week
  • If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule

Blissel

Medication type

Vaginal oestrogen gel


Store in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture and away from children.

  1. Wash your hands.
  2. Take the tube and remove the cap.
  3. Turn the cap upside down and use the point inside the gap to pierce the seal on the tube.
  4. Screw the applicator into the open tube.
  5. Gently squeeze the tube to fill the applicator until the plunger stops (this is one dose).
  6. Unscrew the applicator from the tube.

  1. Lie on your back with knees bent and apart, or stand in a comfortable position.
  2. Insert the open end of the applicator into the vagina as far as it feels comfortable.
  3. Push the plunger slowly and steadily all the way to empty the gel.
  4. Keep the plunger pressed down as you gently remove the applicator
  5. After use, pull the plunger out fully from the tube and wash both parts in warm soapy water and allow it to dry if it is re-usable. If it is non - reusable the plunger will not come apart, and you will have multiple applicators in the box..
  6. Do not use detergents or boiling water.
  7. If advised, the gel can also be applied to the the vulva using fingertips.

Dispose of empty tubes and applicators in household waste.


A small amount of gel leakage is normal- wearing a panty liner can help.

Femseven

Medication type

Oestrogen-only patch


Store in the original unopened pouch and carton at room temperature (at or below 25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and out of sight and reach of children.

  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear open the sachet along the notched edge when you are ready to apply the patch.

  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto the skin area below the waist (lower abdomen, upper thigh or buttock)
  3. Remove the remaining liner
  4. Press firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds making sure all the edges stick well
  5. Wash your hands after applying

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.


Femseven patches are normally changed weekly on the same day of the week. If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Femseven conti

Medication type

Combined oestrogen and progesterone patch


Store in the original unopened pouch and carton at room temperature (at or below 25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and out of sight and reach of children.

  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear open the sachet along the notched edge when you are ready to apply the patch

  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto the skin area below the waist (lower abdomen, upper thigh or buttock)
  3. Remove the remaining liner
  4. Press firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds, making sure all the edges stick well
  5. Wash your hands after applying

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.


Femseven conti patches are normally changed weekly on the same day of the week. If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Femseven sequi

Medication type

Combined oestrogen and progesterone patch


Store in the original unopened pouch and carton at room temperature (at or below 25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and out of sight and reach of children.

  1. Ensure the skin is clean, dry and free from oils, lotions, creams or powders.
  2. Tear open the sachet along the notched edge when you are ready to apply the patch

  1. Bend the patch and peel off half of the protective liner, avoiding touching the sticky side where possible.
  2. Place the adhesive side onto the skin area below the waist (lower abdomen, upper thigh or buttock)
  3. Remove the remaining liner
  4. Press firmly with the palm of your hand for around 10 seconds, making sure all the edges stick well
  5. Wash your hands after applying

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.


Femseven sequi patches are normally changed weekly on the same day of the week. If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Femseven Sequi packs contain two types of patches. Unless you have been advised otherwise, you usually start with Femseven oestrogen patches for the first 2 weeks, then switch to Femseven Combined patches for the next 2 weeks.

Elleste solo

Medication type

Oral oestrogen tablet


Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the tablets in the original blister pack and carton to protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze and keep out of reach of children.

  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Take the tablet out of the packaging.


  1. Take with a glass of water at the same time every day
  2. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew
  3. Take as prescribed every day

Return any unused or out-of-date tablets to your pharmacist; do not put unused tablets in household waste.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, if within 12 hours.

If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed tablet, take your next tablet at the usual time.

Elleste duet

Medication type

Oral oestrogen and progesterone tablet


Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the tablets in the original blister pack and carton to protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze and keep out of reach of children.

  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Take the tablet out of the packaging.


  1. Take with a glass of water at the same time every day
  2. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew
  3. Take as prescribed every day

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.


Femseven sequi patches are normally changed weekly on the same day of the week. If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Femseven Sequi packs contain two types of patches. Unless you have been advised otherwise, you usually start with Femseven oestrogen patches for the first 2 weeks, then switch to Femseven Combined patches for the next 2 weeks.

Elleste duet conti

Medication type

Oral oestrogen and progesterone tablet


Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the tablets in the original blister pack and carton to protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze and keep out of reach of children.

  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Take the tablet out of the packaging.


  1. Take with a glass of water at the same time every day
  2. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew
  3. Take as prescribed every day

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.


Femseven sequi patches are normally changed weekly on the same day of the week. If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Femseven Sequi packs contain two types of patches. Unless you have been advised otherwise, you usually start with Femseven oestrogen patches for the first 2 weeks, then switch to Femseven Combined patches for the next 2 weeks.

Zumenon

Medication type

Oral oestrogen tablet


Store at room temperature in a dry place. Keep the tablets in the original blister pack and carton to protect from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze and keep out of reach of children.

  1. Wash your hands before use.
  2. Take the tablet out of the packaging.


  1. Take with a glass of water at the same time every day
  2. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew
  3. Take as prescribed every day

Fold the used patch in half so the sticky sides stick together, then dispose of it and the packaging in household waste. Do not flush patches down the toilet.


Femseven sequi patches are normally changed weekly on the same day of the week. If a patch falls off, apply a new patch and then return to your usual schedule.

Femseven Sequi packs contain two types of patches. Unless you have been advised otherwise, you usually start with Femseven oestrogen patches for the first 2 weeks, then switch to Femseven Combined patches for the next 2 weeks.

What you need to know

Universal safety information

This guide provides general information on storing and using medicines. Always follow the instructions on your medicine label and the plan in your clinic letter. If the advice differs, follow your clinic letter and contact your care team if you are unsure.

  • Keep all medicines out of sight and reach of children and pets.
  • Store medicines as described in the Storage section for each medication.
  • Do not use medicines after the expiry date on the packaging.

Contact your care team or pharmacist if:

  • You are unsure how to use your medicine
  • You think you have taken too much or used it incorrectly
  • You develop a new symptom that concerns you
  • You notice side effects that are troublesome or do not settle

Seek urgent medical advice (for example NHS 111, or emergency services in an emergency) if you:

  • Have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash
  • Feel suddenly very unwell after using a medicine

Some hormone gels, creams and sprays can transfer to other people through skin contact.

  • Apply only to clean, dry, unbroken skin as directed.
  • Allow the area to dry fully before covering with clothing.
  • Wash your hands after application.
  • Avoid skin contact between the application site and other people until the area is dry. Take extra care around children and pets.

If you miss a dose, follow the instructions in your clinic letter or patient leaflet. Do not use a double dose unless you have been specifically advised to do so.

  • Do not flush medicines, patches, applicators or packaging down the toilet unless you have been told to do so.
  • Return unused medicines to a pharmacy where advised.

If you think you are having a side effect, talk to your clinician or pharmacist. You can also report suspected side effects through the Yellow Card scheme (MHRA).