Indications
Vagifem is a prescription medication used to treat menopausal changes in and around the vagina. It helps relieve vaginal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, irritation, soreness, itching, pain during intercourse, and painful urination. The active ingredient in Vagifem is estradiol hemihydrate, which is a form of the female sex hormone estrogen. Vagifem tablets work by delivering estradiol directly to the vaginal tissues.
Vagifem comes in the form of vaginal tablets, which are inserted into the vagina using an applicator. When inserted into the vagina, the tablet slowly dissolves and releases estradiol over time. The estradiol helps to thicken the vaginal tissues, reduce dryness, and improve blood flow to the area.
Use and Dosage
Vagifem vaginal tablets are prescribed as one tablet daily for the first two weeks and then one tablet two times a week thereafter. Insert the tablet on the same day each week. A dosing schedule will help to avoid missing a dose.
Here are the general instructions for how to use Vagifem tablets:
- Wash your hands before handling the tablet and applicator.
- Remove the applicator from the package and insert a tablet into the applicator. You may need to moisten the tablet with water to help with insertion.
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and spread apart.
- Gently insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it will comfortably go.
- Push the plunger on the applicator to release the tablet into your vagina.
- Remove the applicator and dispose of it.
The usage can vary depending on the condition of the patient and should be used as directed by the doctor. Read the patient information leaflet before using the medication. If you have any questions about how to use Vagifem tablets, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Vagifem Vaginal Tablet (Estradiol):
- Acne
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Increased facial hair
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Vaginal itching or discharge
- Vomiting
- Weight changes
Serious Side Effects of Vagifem Vaginal Tablet (Estradiol):
- Bone pain
- Breast lumps
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Coughing up blood
- Depression or other mental changes
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Feeling short of breath
- Fever with nausea
- Increased or new vaginal irritation
- Increased thirst and urination
- Lack of energy
- Lump in your breast
- Memory problems
- Muscle pain
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Pain or swelling in the legs
- Pain or warmth in one or both legs
- Pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder
- Pelvic pain
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Problems with vision or balance
- Severe abdominal pain
- Severe dizziness
- Severe headache
- Slurred speech
- Stabbing chest pain
- Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body)
- Sudden severe headache
- Sudden vision loss
- Sunburn like skin rash
- Sweating
- Swelling or tenderness in your stomach
- Trouble breathing
- Unusual sweating
- Unusual vaginal discharge/infection
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Vomiting
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Forms and Strength
Vagifem Vaginal Tablet (Estradiol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Vagifem Vaginal Tablet: Vaginal Tablets
- 10 mcg
- 25 mcg
Cautions
- Vagifem contains estrogen, which can increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer. Patients with a history of this condition should proceed with caution and regularly discuss their risk factors with their doctor.
- Estrogen-containing medications such as Vagifem can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke, particularly in women who have other risk factors for these conditions.
- Vagifem can interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics and antifungal drugs. Patients should speak with their doctor before starting Vagifem if they are taking any other medications.
- Use of Vagifem may cause vaginal bleeding, which should be reported to a doctor. While this is not always a cause for concern, it can signify certain health conditions that require medical attention.
- Vagifem can cause a range of side effects, both minor and serious. Patients should review the full list of possible side effects, including symptoms such as headache, nausea, and breast tenderness, and contact their doctor if any of these occur.
- Estrogen-containing medications like Vagifem may increase the risk of gallbladder disease, particularly in women who have a history of this condition.
- Patients with liver disease may be at increased risk of side effects from Vagifem due to the way estrogen is metabolized in the body. Women with liver disease should discuss the risks and benefits of using Vagifem with their doctor.
- Women with a history of breast cancer should avoid using Vagifem, as estrogen can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.
- Women with certain medical conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, or asthma, may need to be monitored more closely while using Vagifem.
- Vagifem may cause dizziness or other side effects that could impair a patient's ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Patients should use caution until they know how Vagifem affects them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How quickly does Vagifem work?
Vagifem may start to work as soon as the vaginal tablet has been inserted. However, the full benefits may be achieved after 8-12 weeks of use.
Does Vagifem cause weight gain?
Vagifem may cause swelling, fluid retention, and weight gain. However, it can also cause weight loss because of the appetite changes that Vagifem may cause.
When is the best time to use Vagifem?
You may insert the Vagifem vaginal tablets at any time of the day, yet it is best to use it at the same time on the days when insertion is scheduled.
Resources
-
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=e5ad3cf6-dd96-4e64-af21-c1eee38d0b88
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/020908s013lbl.pdf
- https://www.goodrx.com/vagifem/what-is
- https://www.rxlist.com/vagifem-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-18858/vagifem-vaginal/details
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