What is Vagifem?

Vagifem (Estradiol) is a female hormone medication used to help vaginal symptoms of menopause including burning, itching, vaginal dryness and pain during sexual intercourse which are a result of the body making less estrogen. Estrogen is a female sex hormone which regulates many body processes.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Vagifem is typically used once daily for the initial two weeks of treatment and then twice weekly afterwards.
• Vagifem comes packaged with individual applicators with the tablet already inside. Gently insert your Vagifem applicator into the vagina and press the plunger to release the medication.
• If the tablet falls out before use, discard it and use a new applicator.
• Your Vagifem dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to treatment. Do not increase or change your dosage unless advised by a doctor.
• Vagifem is most effective when used regularly. Always follow your dosing schedule.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: Vaginal bleeding; breast, ovarian or uterine cancer, blood clots; stroke; heart disease or heart attack; liver disease; kidney disease; blood clotting disorders; high blood pressure; diabetes; high cholesterol or triglyceride levels; obesity; lupus; underactive thyroid; mineral imbalance; hypoparathyroidism; uterus problems such as fibroids or endometriosis; gallbladder disease; asthma; seizures; migraine headaches; mental or mood disorders such as dementia or depression; and porphyria.
• Your personal or family medical history of: breast lumps, cancer, blood clots and angioedema.
• If you have recently had surgery or will be having surgery as this can increase the chance of getting blood clots. You may need to temporarily stop taking Vagifem.
• If you will be confined to a chair or bed for an extended time such as a long flight as this can increase the chance of getting blood clots. You may need to temporarily stop taking Vagifem.

Also be aware that:

• While taking Vagifem, you should not smoke or use tobacco as this will further increase your risk of stroke, high blood pressure, blood clots and heart attacks, especially in women over 35.
• Vagifem can cause dark, blotchy areas of your skin and face which may be worsened by sunlight. Limit your time in the sun and wear protective clothing and sunscreen when necessary. You should avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.
• If you wear contact lenses or are nearsighted, you could develop vision problems or have problems wearing your contact lenses.
• You should not use Vagifem while pregnant. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.

Common side effects of Vagifem may include but are not limited to:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Bloating or weight changes.
• Diarrhea.
• Breast tenderness.
• Headaches.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following Vagifem side effects:

• Mental or mood changes such as memory loss or depression.
• Breast lumps.
• Increased or new vaginal irritation, itching, odor, discharge or unusual vaginal bleeding.
• Severe abdominal or stomach pain.
• Persistent vomiting or nausea.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Swelling of the hands or feet.
• Increased thirst or urination or dark urine.
• Signs of a blood clot such as: Pain in the chest, jaw or left arm; Unusual sweating; Slurred speech; Sudden or severe headache; Vision changes; Coughing up blood; Weakness on one side of the body; Confusion; Pain, redness or swelling of the legs; Tingling, weakness or Numbness in the arms or legs; Breathing problems; Or sudden dizziness or fainting.
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, hitching of the face, tongue or throat, dizziness or breathing trouble.

Q:  Is there a Vagifem generic alternative?

A: There is currently no therapeutically equivalent generic Vagifem available but you can still make great savings on your medication cost by buying with Canada Drugs.

Q: How do I use Vagifem?

A: Always follow your doctor’s dosing directions. Vagifem comes packaged with individual applicators with the tablet already inside. Gently insert your Vagifem applicator into the vagina and press the plunger to release the medication.