Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem)

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
	Vagifem

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - What is it for

Vagifem is a preparation containing low dose of natural estrogen (10µg 17β-estradiol); a female sex hormone. It is used to treat vaginal irritation, dryness, and pain during sexual intercourse. It can also help to reduce episodes of recurrent urinary tract infection as well as urinary incontinence.

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, side effects of this medicine are minimal. If you feel painful during the insertion of the applicator into the vagina initially, the applicator maybe moistened with water or lubricated with a lubricating cream. Be sure not to wet the tablet while doing so.

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

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?

Otherwise instructed by the doctor, Vagifem is usually administered vaginally 1 tablet daily for 2 weeks, followed by 1 tablet twice a week.

The Vagifem vaginal tablet is to be placed into your vagina with the help of the applicator.

	Tear off one single blister pack and open at the push button end of the pack by pressing. The tablet is at the other end of the applicator. Do not get the tablet wet.
	Standing on one foot on a chair or lying on your back, insert the applicator, with tablet at the end, into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go. During insertion, take care not to push the button at the end until the applicator is fully inserted.
	When the applicator is fully inserted, 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 applicator. The tablet will stick to vaginal wall.
	Withdraw and throw away the applicator. After insertion, try to remain in a lying position for at least 30 minutes to prevent the tablet from falling out from the vagina.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and go back to your usual timing of administration the next day. Do not use 2 doses or extra doses to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - Handling and Storage

How should I handle Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) safely?

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

Contact the doctor as soon as possible if you have signs of allergic reactions, which include rashes, itching, redness or swelling or very bad vaginal irritation after administration.

Updated on Tuesday, May 31, 2022

This article is contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup