Brand
name: VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
Pronounced: vaj-I-fem
Generic name: Estradiol vaginal tablets
Why is VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) prescribed?
As estrogen levels decline during menopause, vaginal tissues tend
to shrink and lose their elasticity--sometimes producing a condition
known as atrophic vaginitis. Inserted in the vagina on a regular
basis, VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) tablets provide a local source of estrogen replacement
without passing through the rest of the system. This helps relieve
such symptoms of atrophic vaginitis as vaginal dryness, soreness,
and itching.
Most important fact about VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
Because estrogen replacement therapy is not advisable if you are
in any danger of developing cancer, your doctor should take a complete
medical and family history--and do a complete physical exam--before
prescribing VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ). As a general rule, you should have an examination
at least once a year while using this product.
How should you take VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) - FDA
meds approved - without a prescriptions?
Each VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) tablet comes in its own disposable applicator. Insert
the applicator as far into the vagina as you find comfortable,
stopping when the applicator is half inside. Gently press the plunger
in the applicator until you here a click and the plunger is fully
depressed. This will release the VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) tablet. Conclude by gently
removing the applicator and discarding it as you would a tampon
applicator.
The VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) tablet can be inserted at any time of day, but it's
advisable to do each insertion around the same time.
If you miss a dose VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule.
Never try to "catch up" by doubling the dose.
VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )Storage instructions
Store at room temperature.
VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe to continue using VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ).
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, allergic reactions, back pain, genital itching, headache, skin
rash, upper respiratory infection, vaginal spotting or discharge, yeast infection
Why should VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) not be prescribed?
Do not use VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) if there is any chance that you have breast
cancer or any other cancer stimulated by estrogen. Avoid VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
if there is a possibility that you are pregnant. Do not use VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
if estrogen products have given you clotting problems in the past,
or if you currently have phlebitis or other clotting disorders.
Also avoid VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) if you have unexplained genital bleeding or
the metabolic disorder known as porphyria, and do not use this
product if it causes an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
Estrogen replacement therapy is associated with a slight increase
in the chances of heart disease, high blood pressure, blood clots,
gallbladder disease, excessive calcium levels, and cancer of the
uterus. There is also mounting evidence that it may increase the
risk of breast cancer.
Because of these possibilities, get in touch with your doctor
right away if you develop any of the following:
Abdominal pain, tenderness, or swelling
Abnormal bleeding from the vagina
Breast lumps
Coughing up blood
Difficulty with speech
Dizziness or fainting
Pain in your chest or calves
Severe headache or vomiting
Sudden shortness of breath
Vision changes
Weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Because estrogen can affect the ability to handle blood sugar,
diabetic women should use this product with caution. Be alert,
too, for signs of fluid retention, which can be especially harmful
for people with asthma, epilepsy, migraine, a heart condition,
or a kidney disorder. Estrogen has also been known to trigger huge
spikes in triglyceride levels, leading to problems in the pancreas.
If you have a liver condition, use VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) with caution and make
sure your doctor is aware of the situation. Women with liver problems
have difficulty processing estrogen.
Any vaginal infection you may have should be cleared up before
you begin using VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ).
Possible food and drug interactions when using VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
There is no information on interactions with VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
VAGIFEM ( Estradiol ) must not be used during pregnancy, and is not intended
for nursing mothers.
Recommended dosage for VAGIFEM ( Estradiol )
The usual dosage is 1 tablet a day for the first 2 weeks, then
1 tablet twice weekly. Every 3 to 6 months, the doctor will see
if the dosage can be reduced or discontinued.
Overdosage
An overdose from a vaginal tablet is unlikely. An oral overdose
of estrogen could be expected to cause the symptoms listed below.
