Evamist Warning from FDA's Center of Veterinary Medicine

According to the FDA (Federal Drug Administration) warning issued July 29, 2010, Evamist Hormone Spray has been linked to health problems recently in not only children, but also in pets that come in contact with it. Fortunately, this is a health problem that can be prevent with a little precaution and a change of clothes.

Evamist Hormone Spray, estradiol transdermal spray, is used for women who suffer from hot flashes associated with menopause. This estrogen spray is easily administered simply by spraying it on the inside of the forearm between the woman's elbow and her wrist then allowing 2 minutes before she gets dressed or 30 minutes before getting the area where the Evamist has been applied to get wet. Even though Evamist has been approved by the FDA for use in relieving hot flashes, it does have side effects that can affect the woman who uses it. These side effects include headaches, a cold, tenderness in the breasts, back, joint and nipple pain and even nausea. Unfortunately there are side effects for other people, such as children, who come in contact with this hormonal spray and there can also be side effects for the pets, especially small ones, in the woman's life.

It has been determined that there is some degree of health risk for pets when they come in contact with Evamist Hormone Spray. Evamist was approved for use in 2007 and since that time the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine has become aware of dogs that have come in contact with the hormone spray by the dog owner holding the dog after applying the spray or the dog actually licking the area of the woman's arm where the spray has been applied. In the reports submitted to the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine, the dogs had swelling of their nipples and/or vulva. Other health problems reported include liver failure, vaginal prolapse and elevated estrogen levels.

To prevent pets from coming into contact with Evamist and having adverse health problems, the FDA has suggested that a woman who has pets simply wear long sleeves so that the pet can not come in contact with the area where the spray was applied. If a pet has come in contact with Evamist it is best to contact a veterinarian. The veterinarian will instruct the pet owner with the proper steps to take to deal with the situation. This may include bathing the animal with soap and water to get off any product residue that may be on the pet.

If you or someone in your household is using Evamist or if your pet is in contact with someone who is using Evamist, keep a close eye on the pet to watch for the signs of the pet coming in contact with the spray. At first signs of health problems it is best to contact your veterinarian.