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Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem)

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Vagifem

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - What is it for

Vagifem® is a type of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that contains a low dose of natural estrogen (estradiol), which is a female hormone. It is used to treat vaginal irritation, dryness, and pain during sexual intercourse.  These symptoms are caused by a decreased levels of estrogen, which happens naturally after menopause. Vagifem® works by replacing the estrogen.

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) cause?

As Vagifem® contains a very small amount of estrogen, the side effects are usually well tolerated. 

Some of the common side effects include: 
  • Headache 
  • Stomach pain
  • Vaginal discharge or discomfort 
If it is painful during the insertion of the applicator into the vagina, the applicator may be moistened with water or lubricated with a lubricating cream/jelly.

Rare but serious side effects include:
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Sudden, new severe headaches 
  • A large rise in your blood pressure which may cause headaches, tiredness, dizziness.
  • Dark urine or light-coloured stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, severe stomach pain, yellowing of your eyes or skin. These may be signs of liver disease.
  • Painful swelling and redness of the legs, sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing which could be signs of a blood clot.
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 
  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately:

Before taking Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 
  • You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
  • You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies. 
  • You have any unexplained vaginal bleeding.
  • You have a history of or current medical conditions such as liver problems, stroke, heart disease, blood clots, migraine headaches, epilepsy, diabetes mellitus or cancer.
  • You are going for surgery or will be on bed rest. 

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) ?

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - Dosage and How to Use

How should Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) be used?

  • Vagifem® comes as a vaginal tablet contained in a disposable applicator. 
  • Insert the vaginal tablet into your vagina with the help of the applicator.
  • Unless otherwise instructed by the doctor, insert 1 tablet daily into your vagina for 2 weeks continuously, followed by 1 tablet two times a week. When using it twice a week, leave a 3 – 4 days gap between each dose (for example, Mondays and Thursdays or Tuesdays and Fridays).
  • Do not stop using your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.

Step 1:
  • Tear off one single blister pack and open at the plunger end (push button). Remove the applicator from the plastic wrap as shown.
  • The tablet is at the other end of the applicator.
  • Keep your hands clean and dry to avoid getting the tablet wet.

Step 2:
  • Select the best position for inserting Vagifem® - standing with one foot on a chair or lying on your back.
  • Insert the applicator, with the tablet at the end, into the vagina as far as comfortably possible or until resistance is met (8 – 10cm).
  • Take care not to press the push button at the end until the applicator is inserted properly.

​Step 3:
  • Press the push button at the end of the applicator until a click is felt. This indicates that the tablet has been released from the end of the applicator into the vagina.
  • The tablet will stick to the vagina wall straight away
  • It will not fall out if you stand up or walk. 

​Step 4:
  • Remove and throw away the applicator.
 

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - Handling

How should I handle Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) safely?

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - Storage

How should I store Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#

How should I dispose of Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) safely?

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - Additional Information

  • Updated on 5/31/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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