Examiner.com

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, is looking into reports of adverse health effects to children and pets who may have been unintentionally exposed to the estrogen hormone, transdermal spray, Evamist, used by women.

Women use Evamist to control hot flashes during menopause, and the drug is sprayed on the skin on the inside of the forearm between the elbow and the wrist. Children and pets come in contact with the drug unintentionally when the women is touched in the arm area by a child or pet. A pet may also come in contact with it by licking the area on the arm. If avoidance to children or pets cannot be accomplished, health experts advise wearing long sleeves to cover the application site.

The FDA warns that children exposed to Evamist may experience premature puberty, and female children may experience breast development and nipple enlargement. Male children may experience breast enlargement. You are advised to contact your health care provider if you believe your child came in contact with Evamist or your child exhibits any of the above signs of exposure.

Pets may exhibit signs such as mammary/nipple enlargement and vulvar enlargement. Small pets may be especially sensitive to the estrogen in Evamist. You are advised to call the pet's veterinarian if you believe your pet came in contact with the drug.

Evamist is a product of Ther-Rx Corporation headquartered in Bridgeton, Missouri.

For more information about women's health and relief from menopause symptoms in the Grand Rapids area, contact Grand Rapids Women's Health at 616-588-1200, or visit their website.

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