Federal MHT Reference Names Estrogel, Premarin, Prometrium Regimens
A Government of Canada clinical reference document on medical management of menopause symptoms identifies 17β-estradiol gel (Estrogel), conjugated estrogen (Premarin) 0.625mg tablets, and micronized progesterone (Prometrium) 100mg as commonly prescribed continuous menopause hormone therapy regimens for Canadian patients.
What the federal reference specifies
The Department of National Defence clinician reference describes a continuous combined regimen in which systemic estrogen is administered either transdermally or orally. The document specifies 17β-estradiol gel (Estrogel), one actuation to each arm, or conjugated estrogen (Premarin) 0.625mg tablets once daily, as a commonly prescribed continuous regimen.
For individuals with a uterus, the reference indicates that micronized progesterone (Prometrium) 100mg at bedtime, or a 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (Mirena), is to be added for endometrial protection.
Product forms available in Canada
The document notes that transdermal estrogen has a lower thrombosis risk profile than oral estrogen, and that for perimenopausal individuals still menstruating, a cyclic regimen using continuous transdermal or oral estrogen with cyclic oral micronized progesterone (200mg per day for 12-14 days of each calendar month) may be used.
For genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), the reference lists local vaginal estrogen preparations - vaginal creams, vaginal tablets, or a vaginal ring - as second-line options, and notes these are not systemic and do not require concurrent progesterone even in individuals with a uterus.
Current provider pricing for the main product categories tracked in Canada is available on estradiol gel pricing, estradiol patch pricing, Premarin pricing, progesterone pricing, and vaginal estrogen pricing.
Estrace manufacturer and strength details
A separate Canadian pharmacy listing confirms that the brand Estrace is manufactured by Actavis from the United States and Acerus Pharmaceuticals from Canada, while the generic estradiol is manufactured in Canada by Lupin. The listing states Estrace is available in a 0.01%/42.5 gm vaginal cream and in 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg tablets.
The listing also states that the generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product, a distinction that can be relevant when comparing pricing of brand versus generic estradiol products across Canadian pharmacies on oral estradiol pricing.
Pricing context for Canadian consumers
The federal reference lists specific named products - Estrogel, Premarin, Prometrium, and Mirena - that are commonly prescribed in Canada. Consumers researching costs across provinces can review Ontario coverage or use the main price comparison tool.
- 17β-estradiol gel: Estrogel
- Conjugated estrogen 0.625mg tablet: Premarin
- Micronized progesterone 100mg: Prometrium
- Oral estradiol tablet: Estrace 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg
- Vaginal estradiol: Estrace 0.01%/42.5 gm vaginal cream
Background on Canadian guidance
The Canadian Cancer Society separately notes that the decision to use hormone replacement therapy is personal and should be made with a healthcare provider, and recommends regular breast cancer screening for all women aged 40 to 74, including those using hormone therapy.
For more coverage of Canadian menopause product availability and pricing, see online menopause treatment and women's health news.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
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