Divigel, from Upsher-Smith Laboratories, is a odorless gel that dries quickly. It is applied daily on the thigh. Significantly, it absorbs directly into the bloodstream thus bypassing the liver. The FDA just approved Divigel and it will be abailable in July 2007.

The estrogen in Divigel (Estradiol gel) is identical to the primary estrogen produced by women before menopause. It is derived from plants and is available in the lowest dose of Estradiol available. Clinical trials of Divigel showed a decrease in frequency and severity of hot flashes among those tested. Side effects were minimal.

Divigel appears to be a convenient, low-dose therapy for coping with uncomfortable hot flashes. As with any estrogen hormone therapy, this product should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time.