Vagifem

Vagifem (Estradiol) is prescribed to relieve the vaginal effects affecting women going through menopause. These may include vaginal irritation, itching, and dryness as well as pain and bleeding during sexual intercourse. This medicine contains a natural form of estrogen that operates by replacing the falling levels of estrogen which occur during the menopause.

Vagifem (Estradiol) comes in the form of tablets to be administered directly into the vagina using the provided applicator. Follow the instructions provided with the packaging or ask your physician if you are unsure about the proper application procedure. If you still have a uterus, it is likely that your physician will tell you to use this medication in combination with a progestin to lower the risk of endometrial cancer. In most cases the lowest possible effective dose is prescribed and treatment is only continued if your physician deems it necessary. Regular medical consultations will be necessary to monitor your progress and assess whether or not treatment should be continued.

The use of Vagifem (Estradiol) may cause side effects in some patients such as:

• Vaginal discharge
• Acne or skin discoloration
• Tenderness or swelling of the breasts
• Unwanted growth of hair or loss of hair
• Problems related to wearing contact lenses

Consult your physician if any side effects become serious or worrying to you. Seek emergency medical if you notice any serious side effects such as uncontrolled body movements, pain affecting the joints, a lump on the breast, signs of high blood pressure, or abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Vagifem (Estradiol) should not be used by patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have cardiac conditions, a history of blood clots, known or suspected breast cancer, or unexplained vaginal bleeding. Also disclose if you have uterine fibroids, benign breast lumps, history of endometriosis, varicose veins, severe obesity, asthma, gallstones, diabetes, migraines, epilepsy, hypertension, or high levels of triglycerides in the blood as these conditions may cause unexpected complications during treatment.