Instructions for use for Minivelle
Generic name: estradiol transdermal (skin patch)
Figure A
Step 1: Pick the days you will change your patch.
- You will need to change your patch 2 times a week or every 3 to 4 days. Use the calendar printed inside your carton to choose the 2 days you will change your patch (See Figure B).
- Remember to change your patch on the same 2 days you marked on your calendar. If you forget to change your patch on the correct date, apply a new patch as soon as you remember, and continue to follow your original schedule
Figure B
Step 2. Remove the Minivelle patch from the pouch.
- Remove the patch from its protective pouch by tearing at the notch ( do not use scissors, See Figure C).
- Do not remove your patch from the protective pouch until you are ready to apply it
Figure C
Step 3. Remove half of the adhesive liner (See Figure D).
Figure D
Step 4. Placing the patch on your skin.
- Hold the part of the patch that still has the adhesive liner on it
- Avoid touching the sticky half of the patch with your fingers
- Apply the exposed sticky half of the patch to 1 of the areas of skin shown below (See Figures E and F).
Figures E and F
Note:
- Avoid the waistline, since clothing and belts may cause the patch to be rubbed off
- Do not apply the patch to your breasts
- Only apply the patch to skin that is clean, dry, and free of any powder, oil, or lotion
- You should not apply the patch to injured, burned, or irritated skin, or areas with skin conditions (such as birth marks, tattoos, or that is very hairy)
Step 5: Press the patch firmly onto your skin.
- Remove the remaining half of the adhesive liner and press the entire patch into place with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds
- Rub the edges of the patch with your fingers to make sure that it will stick to your skin (See Figure G).
Figure G
Note:
- Showering will not cause your patch to fall off
- If your patch falls off reapply it. If you cannot reapply the patch, apply a new patch to another area (See Figures E and D) and continue to follow your original placement schedule
- If you stop using your Minivelle patch or forget to apply a new patch as scheduled, you may have spotting, or bleeding, and recurrence of symptoms
Step 6: Throwing away your used patch.
- When it is time to change your patch, remove the old patch before you apply a new patch
- To throw away the patch, fold the sticky side of the patch together, place it in a sturdy child-proof container, and place this container in the trash. Used patches should not be flushed in the toilet