Vagifem Vaginal Tablet (Estradiol)

Description

Indications

Vaginal estrogen is employed to address symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, and burning, along with painful or challenging urination, and an urgent need to urinate immediately in women undergoing or having experienced menopause.

Categorized under hormones, vaginal estrogen functions by replenishing estrogen levels, which naturally decrease during menopause.

Uses and Dosage

Follow your doctor’s instructions for the usage of this medication, typically administered once daily for the initial 2 weeks and then reduced to twice a week thereafter.

The applicator is provided with the tablet inside; if the tablet dislodges before use, discard it and employ a new applicator/tablet. Insert the applicator gently into the vagina as instructed, then press the plunger to release the medication. Dispose of the applicator after use.

Dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to the treatment. Adhere to your dosing schedule diligently and refrain from increasing the dose or using the medication more frequently or for a longer duration than prescribed.

Consistent and regular use of this medication is essential to derive maximum benefits. Do not deviate from your prescribed dosing schedule.

Inform your doctor if there is no improvement in your condition or if it worsens.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• breast pain or tenderness
• nausea
• headache
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• changes in sexual desire
• hair loss
• spotty darkening of the skin on the face
• sudden feelings of heat or sweating
• stomach pain or bloating
• swelling, redness, burning, itching, or irritation of the vagina
• vaginal discharge
• painful or difficult urination
• back or joint pain
• runny nose or congestion

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• bulging eyes
• ongoing pain that begins in the stomach area but may spread to the back nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• rash, hives, itching, hoarseness, or difficulty breathing or swallowing
• swelling of the eyes, face, tongue, throat, hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• fever, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, dizziness or fainting, or rash on face or body

Caution

• Before using estradiol, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product might contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
• Prior to starting this medication, disclose your medical history, particularly if you have a history of vaginal bleeding with an unknown cause, specific cancers (such as breast cancer, uterine or ovarian cancer), blood clots, stroke, heart disease, liver or kidney disease, a family history of certain conditions (especially breast lumps, cancer, blood clots), or a personal or family history of a particular swelling disorder (angioedema). Other important considerations include blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, obesity, lupus, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), mineral imbalances, a certain hormone problem (hypoparathyroidism), uterus problems, gallbladder disease, asthma, seizures, migraine headaches, mental/mood disorders, or a specific blood disorder (porphyria).
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco while using estradiol, as the combination increases the risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, especially in women older than 35.
• Inform your doctor if you have recently undergone or are planning surgery or if you will be immobile for an extended period (such as a long plane flight), as these conditions heighten the risk of blood clots, particularly when using estrogen products. Special precautions or temporary discontinuation of the medication may be necessary.
• Estradiol may cause blotchy, dark areas on the face and skin (melasma), which can be worsened by sunlight. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, be alert to potential vision problems or difficulty wearing contact lenses.
• Contact your eye doctor if you experience such issues.
• This medication is not suitable for use during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor immediately.
• Estradiol passes into breast milk, potentially reducing both the quality and quantity of breast milk produced. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.

Form and Strength

Vagifem Vaginal Tablet is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Vagifem Vaginal Tablet vaginal tablet:
  • 10 mcg

FAQ

How long should you stay on Vagifem?

You’ll usually be recommended to take HRT for between 2 and 5 years to relieve symptoms but you may need to take it for longer, and there is no set limit on how long you can take it.

When will I feel better while taking Vagifem?

It can take up to 3 months for vaginal estrogen to work fully in improving your symptoms.

Resources

1. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/vaginal-oestrogen/how-and-when-to-use-vaginal-oestrogen/#:~:text=How%20long%20to%20use%20it,long%20you%20can%20take%20it
2. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/vaginal-oestrogen/common-questions-about-vaginal-oestrogen/
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/estradiol-vaginal-route/description/drg-20075648
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-18858/vagifem-vaginal/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606005.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/vagifem.html