What is Vagifem used for?

Vagifem is a local vaginal hormone replacement therapy medication used to treat menopausal changes in and around the vagina. During menopause, woman's ovaries stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her period stops. Patients often buy Vagifem (Estradiol) to treat bothersome menopause symptoms such as vaginal dryness, painful urination, pain and bleeding during intercourse, and itching in and around the vagina.

You can buy Vagifem (Estradiol) online at My Drug Center. We currently do not offer the Estradiol generic version of this medication.

How does Vagifem work?

Vagifem is a small vaginal tablet that is administered by a single-use disposable applicator. Each Vagifem insert contains a 10mcg of Estradiol dosage, which is the active ingredient that makes this medication work. The Estradiol dosage in this medication restores the levels of estrogen in the vagina. Once the Vagifem tablet is inserted as directed, it slowly dissolves in the vaginal tissues, releasing the estrogen directly where it is needed.

Before taking your prescribed medication read all the instructions that was provided by your pharmacist to understand how to use the applicator and tablets.

Following your doctors instruction administer one does daily for two weeks. To help ensure exact dosing, each applicator contains a single insert with 1 Vagifem dosage. Each insert contains 10mcg of Estradiol dosage, and can be inserted with the slim applicator while standing up or lying down. You don’t need to wash and reuse the applicator; just dispose of it after use, as you would a tampon applicator.

Vagifem can then be used twice a week afterwards. Do not change or increase your dose. You should continue taking this medication even if you feel well.

This medication may contain medical and non medical ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction. Consult with your doctor about any known allergies before you buy Vagifem (Estradiol). Speak with your doctor about any known medical conditions relating to vaginal bleeding, blood clots, stroke, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, swelling disorders, blood clots, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, lupus, under active, mineral imbalance, hormone problems, uterus problems, gallbladder disease, asthma, seizures, migraine headaches, mental/mood disorders, and blood disorders. Tell your doctor about any current medications or supplementation to avoid interactions and unwanted side effects of Estradiol.

Smoking tobacco can increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack in woman over 35 who take Vagifem.

Before taking your prescribed Vagifem dosage, speak with your doctor if you are bed ridden or have recently had surgery. Being sedentary for extended periods can increase the risk of blood clots.

While taking Vagifem you may develop problems wearing your contact lenses. Speak with your eye doctor if vision problems occur during your treatment with Vagifem.

Vagifem can cause dark patches on your skin (melasma), and direct sunlight and exasperate this effect.  Limit sun exposure, tanning booths, and heat lamps. Wear protective clothing in the sun and wear sunscreen on unprotected areas to avoid discolorations n your skin. 

Vagifem side effects include:

Nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, breast swelling or tenderness, nipple discharge, vaginal itching or discharge, swelling of your ankles or feet, headache (including migraines), weight changes, dizziness, cold symptoms (stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat), acne, skin color changes, increased facial hair, thinning scalp hair, depression, changes in your menstrual periods, or break-through bleeding.

Some serious Vagifem side effects include:

Mental/mood changes (such as depression, memory loss), breast lumps, unusual vaginal bleeding (such as spotting, breakthrough bleeding, prolonged or recurrent bleeding), increased or new vaginal irritation/itching/odor/discharge, severe stomach or abdominal pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, swelling hands/ankles/feet, or increased thirst or urination.

If any side effects of Estradiol become unmanageable speak with your doctor or pharmacist for help in managing any side effects. For any serious side effects that occur speak with your doctor right away for further treatment options.

Q: What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

A: A relapse in symptoms may occur depending on the severity of the condition, and you may experience side effects. You should speak your doctor before you stop taking this medication.

Q: What is the best Vagifem dosage?

A: You doctor will be able to determine the best dosage from the initial diagnosis.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping.

Q: What is the best way to store this medication?

A: This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. 

Q: How do I dispose of this medication?

A: Do not throw away this medication in wastewater. Some medication can be thrown away in dry waste, and some require a little preparation for disposal. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist to safely dispose any unwanted or experienced medication.

Q: Is this medication safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: You should not use this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding due to the effect it can have on the child.