Estradiol Hemihydrate

Vagifem

Vagifem is an FDA-approved prescription medication used to treat symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, such as vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation. Estradiol hemihydrate, its active ingredient, helps restore the normal structure and function of the vaginal tissues. It comes in the form of a vaginal tablet and is available in strengths of 4 mcg and 10 mcg. Patients are advised to begin Vagifem 10 mcg treatment by inserting it deeply into the vagina using the preloaded, single-use applicator daily for the initial two weeks, followed by a maintenance dose of twice weekly on consistent days, ensuring a three to four-day interval between doses. For effective and safe use, buy Vagifem online from licensed pharmacies.

Product Overview

Vagifem is a prescription medication containing estradiol, a form of estrogen, designed specifically for the treatment of moderate to severe postmenopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness, irritation, and burning. By delivering estrogen directly to vaginal tissues, Vagifem helps restore the normal structure and function of the tissues, alleviating discomfort.

Available in vaginal tablet form, Vagifem comes in strengths of 4 mcg and 10 mcg. The recommended initial dosage is 10 mcg, inserted deeply into the vagina using a preloaded, single-use applicator. The typical regimen starts with daily administration for the first two weeks, followed by a weekly maintenance dose. Vagifem can be used by postmenopausal women experiencing symptoms of atrophic vaginitis, with dosage timings flexible for convenience, though consistent dosing times are advised.

Potential side effects include stomach cramps, nausea, weight changes, and more serious conditions like mood changes and unusual vaginal bleeding. Patients should discuss their medical history and any concurrent medications with their healthcare provider to mitigate risks. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered or skipped if close to the next scheduled dose. Store Vagifem at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Patients are advised to follow specific disposal instructions to avoid environmental harm.

What Are the Uses of Vagifem?

It is used to:

• Provide relief from moderate to severe symptoms that occur after menopause, such as burning, irritation, and dryness in and around the vagina. 

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Vagifem?

Vagifem is available in the form of a vaginal tablet. It comes in the strength of:

• 4 mcg
• 10 mcg

What Is the Recommended Dosage for Vagifem?

The doses of Vagifem will be different for different patients. That’s why following your doctor’s instructions while using this medication is crucial. Typically, the dosage is based on the severity and patient’s medical condition. Your doctor will decide the number of Vagifem doses you take each day and the length of the treatment. Moreover, the dosage recommendation for each patient may vary, so if your dose is different, do not alter it without asking a medical expert. It is important to note that the following dosage recommendations are only the average ones. 

• Insert Vagifem 10 mcg deep into the vagina using the preloaded, single-use applicator. 
• It is to be used daily for the first two weeks, followed by one maintenance dose twice weekly, as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Generally, women should be started at a dosage strength of 10 mcg. 
• You can use the Vagifem tablet at any time of the day at your convenience, but it should be taken around the same time every day. 
• For example, you can choose Tuesday and Friday as your dosing days.  
• Leave three or four days between each dose. 

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Vagifem?

You can follow our step-by-step guide to insert the Vagifem tablet for safe and efficient use:

• Vagifem is for vaginal insertion only. Do not take it by mouth. 
• Tear off a single blister pack. 
• Separate the plastic wrapper and remove the single-use applicator from the plastic wrap. Keep your hands completely dry and clean while administering the medication. 
• Ensure that the insert has not come out of the applicator or fallen out of the package. If it has, then put it back into the applicator for insertion. 
• Hold the applicator using your middle finger and thumb. Keep your index finger free to press the plunger. 
• Select the most comfortable position for vaginal insertion. You can lie down with your knees bent or stand up.
• Using the other hand, carefully insert the applicator into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go through the vaginal opening or until half of the applicator is inside your vagina, whichever is less. Stop when you feel some resistance. 
• Once the applicator is properly inserted, gently depress the plunger to eject the insert inside your vagina. 
• Vagifem will stick to the wall of your vagina, and it will dissolve by itself in a couple of hours. 
• After the insertion is done, gently remove the applicator from your vagina and dispose of it safely. 
• The tablet will not fall out if you stand or walk. 
• Carefully follow the dosage schedule prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider. 

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Vagifem Work?

Vagifem functions by delivering estrogens directly to the vaginal tissue, which helps to alleviate symptoms associated with atrophic vaginitis in postmenopausal women. The vaginal route of administration allows the estrogen to bypass first-pass metabolism in the liver, resulting in more direct and localized effects. This targeted approach helps to restore the vaginal tissue’s normal structure and function, reducing symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and discomfort. 

Important Safety Information for Using Vagifem

What Are the Side Effects of Vagifem?

Common Side Effects of Vagifem: This medication has some side effects. The following list contains some of the common reactions caused by Vagifem that usually last for a few days or weeks. If these temporary side effects do not go away within the mentioned time period or get intense over time, reach out to a medical professional. Some of these effects may include:

• Stomach Cramps: You may experience slight cramps around your abdominal area. This usually occurs at the start of your treatment and may disappear after some time. However, if the cramps become intense, contact your doctor.  
• Vomiting or Nausea: Vagifem 10 mcg tablet can make you feel nauseous after taking it. If it happens frequently, you need medical assistance.
• Weight Changes: This medication can cause body swelling due to fluid retention, making you feel bloated, and may lead to temporary changes in your body weight.
• Diarrhea: Vagifem may affect your digestive system due to the estrogen it contains. These estrogens can alter the functioning of the intestines, resulting in diarrhea.
• Bloating: Vagifem contains estrogen that can make your body accumulate fluid and gas, thus making you feel full or tightness around the stomach, known as bloating. This side effect usually happens due to hormonal changes, and it goes away within some time. 
• Skin Color Changes: Hormonal replacement therapy medication increases the production of melanin, which results in skin pigmentation. This can sometimes cause changes in skin tones, especially during sun exposure. 
• Swelling or Tenderness of Breast: Changes in hormone levels can cause swelling in the breast tissue, making it more sensitive. 
• Vaginal Itching or Discharge: Vagifem 4 mcg tablet is used to restore moisture in the vaginal tissues. In this process, you may experience a slight discomfort due to vaginal itching or discharge. This happens as your body adjusts to the effects of the medication. 
• Nipple Discharge: Estrogen-containing medications cause changes in hormone levels, making the milk ducts more active. As a result, you may experience nipple discharge. This is usually normal, but if it continues, get it checked by a medical professional.  
• Headache: The medication can affect the blood vessels in the brain, resulting in headaches. These are usually mild, but if they get intense, consult your doctor. 
• Dizziness: Due to the medication’s effect on your blood pressure or circulation, you may feel dizzy after taking these vaginal tablets.  
• Flu Symptoms: During your treatment with Vagifem, you may experience flu-like symptoms, like body aches, fatigue, or fever. These symptoms occur as your body adjusts to the new hormone levels.             
• Acne: Vagifem contains estrogen that can influence the oil production in the skin. Excessive oil can clog your pores, resuling in breakouts or acne on the face and back.
• Spotting or Bleeding Between Periods: Women may experience irregular bleeding while using Vagifem vaginal tablets. The additional estrogen can cause the uterus lining to shed irregularly, thus resulting in light spotting or bleeding between periods. 
• Increased Facial Hair: Many patients may notice increased facial hair due to hormonal changes. This ususally happens with higher doses of hormone treatments.

Mild Side Effects of Vagifem: Unlike common side effects that happen in a significant number of people, mild ones are not that serious and are not experienced by every individual. These reactions do not necessarily cause major discomfort and disappear on their own without any medical treatment. Mild side effects of Vagifem may include:

• Hair Loss: Estrogen-containing medications cause fluctuations in hormone levels. This change can affect hair growth. When you take Vagifem, your body adjusts to the medication’s effects, causing hair thinning or shedding. This happens due to sensitive hair follicles. As a result, you may experience temporary hair loss. The hair shedding will slowly decrease, but if it does not, consult your healthcare practitioner.   
• Fluid Retention: Estrogen may lead to water retention, making you feel bloated, especially in areas like the hand, ankles, or feet. This side effect is not common in every patient.
• Vaginal Yeast Infection: HRT medication may often disturb the natural balance of your private parts, leading to yeast infection. Some of its symptoms include redness, white discharge, itching, or swelling. If you suspect these signs during your treatment with Vagifem 10 mcg tablet, reach out to a medical expert. 

Serious Side Effects of Vagifem: While well-tolerated, Vagifem can also have some adverse side effects, which, if not treated timely, can cause serious complications. If you notice any sign that seems unusual, do not overlook it and consult a medical practitioner. Some of the serious side effects of Vagifem 4 mcg tablet may include:

• Breast Lumps: Like all hormone replacement therapy medications, Vagifem can affect the breast tissues. These changes can lead to breast lumps or thickening. While not all lumps are cancerous, it is important to examine your body and reach out to a medical supervisor if you notice any lumps for the safe side. 
• Mental Changes or Depression: HRT medications like Vagifem can affect the brain chemicals responsible for mood regulation. This can make it harder for the brain to control mood, leading to depression or mental changes.   
• Unusual Vaginal Bleeding: If you are using this medication for a long time, you may experience unusual bleeding. This is due to the estrogen that affects your uterus lining. Some of the common symptoms of this side effect include breakthrough bleeding, spotting, and prolonged or recurrent bleeding.
• Severe Stomach or Abdominal Pain: An impaired digestive system can lead to stomach cramps. If you are using this medication for a prolonged period, you may experience this side effect. 
• Increased or New Genital Problems: Hormonal changes can cause irritation or genital problems such as vaginal itching, odor, irritation, or discharge. Estrogen upsets the bacterial balance and moisture in your vagina, leading to such problems or even infections. If you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, contact a healthcare practitioner.
• Persistent Nausea or Vomiting: If you are vomiting for quite some time after taking this medication, inform your healthcare provider. Continuous vomiting can dehydrate your body, causing several other side effects.
• Jaundice: Vagifem may impact your liver, causing jaundice in certain patients. In this condition, you will experience yellowing of the eyes or skin. If you notice symptoms such as dark-colored urine, yellow color inside your mouth, fever, pale stools, or nausea, reach out to a medical practitioner.
• Increased Urination or Thirst: This medication may affect your kidneys, causing changes in the way your body processes fluids. As a result, you feel thirsty, thus increasing urination. If this side effect stays for a long time or bothers you, inform your doctor.   
• Swelling of Ankles or Feet: Water accumulation may make your ankles and feet swell up. This happens because the extra fluid gets stored in the tissues, making the body parts look puffy.

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Vagifem?

There are several risks associated with Vagifem use. If you have certain medical conditions, it is important to be aware of these warnings. It is important to note that the following list does not contain every risk, but some of them are as follows:

• Estrogen therapy is not recommended for the prevention of dementia or cardiovascular disease.
• The use of estrogens can increase the risk of endometrial cancer. Combining estrogen with progestin as prescribed may reduce this risk. Report any unusual vaginal bleeding to your doctor immediately.
• Estrogens can increase the risk of ovarian cancer, stroke, dementia, and serious blood clots in postmenopausal women. If your doctor prescribes, you can take progestin to decrease the risk. 

What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Vagifem?

FDA-boxed warnings detail all the life-threatening risks of a particular drug or product. These warnings are important to consider, as they help patients and doctors avoid any potential risk. Vagifem also has some boxed warnings, and these are: 

• Estrogen-Alone Therapy and Endometrial Cancer Risk: The use of unopposed estrogens increases the risk of endometrial cancer in women with a uterus. Combining estrogen with progestin reduces this risk. Diagnostic measures should be taken to rule out malignancy in women with abnormal vaginal bleeding.
• Cardiovascular Disorders and Probable Dementia: Estrogen-alone therapy is not recommended for the prevention of dementia or cardiovascular disease. Oral conjugated estrogens have been linked to increased risks of deep vein thrombosis and stroke in postmenopausal women aged 50 to 79. Additionally, an increased risk of probable dementia has been reported in women 65 years and older during treatment with conjugated estrogens.
• Estrogen Plus Progestin Therapy: This therapy should also not be used to prevent cardiovascular disease or dementia. It has been associated with increased risks of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, myocardial infarction, and probable dementia in postmenopausal women aged 50 to 79.
• Breast Cancer Risk: An increased risk of invasive breast cancer has been noted with estrogen plus progestin therapy. Estrogens, with or without progestins, should be prescribed at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration, consistent with treatment goals and individual risk assessments.

What Are the Vagifem Precautions?

Like all medications, Vagifem may have some risks if not used properly. So, when you plan to buy Vagifem online, you must adhere to the below preventive measures to avoid potential injuries or complications. These precautions are:

• Before using Vagifem, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies, particularly to estradiol or other allergies you may have. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.
• Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have had:
  • Vaginal bleeding of unknown cause
  • Gallbladder disease, asthma, seizures, migraine headaches
  • Lupus, hypothyroidism, or mineral imbalances
  • Cancers such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer
  • Blood clots or stroke
  • High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol/triglyceride levels, or obesity
  • Heart disease, including past heart attacks
  • Liver or kidney disease
  • A family history of breast lumps, cancer, or blood clots
  • A personal or family history of angioedema
  • Blood clotting disorders such as protein S or protein C deficiency
  • Hormone problems such as hypoparathyroidism
  • Uterine problems like fibroids or endometriosis
  • Mental/mood disorders, including dementia or depression
  • Porphyria, a specific blood disorder
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco, as combining these with estrogen can increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart attack, particularly in women over 35.
• Notify your doctor if you will be undergoing surgery or will be immobilized (e.g., during long flights), as these conditions can increase the risk of developing blood clots.
• Use caution when sun exposed, as this medication may cause blotchy, dark areas on your face and skin (melasma). Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• If you are nearsighted or wear contact lenses, monitor for vision problems or difficulty wearing your contacts and consult an eye doctor if issues arise.
• Do not use this medication during pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs while using this medication, inform your doctor immediately.
• Estradiol can pass into breast milk and may affect milk production. Discuss the risks with your doctor before breastfeeding.
• Consult your doctor before discontinuing Vagifem. Discuss the effects of stopping and explore alternative treatments.
• Use estrogen alone or combined with progestogen at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration based on treatment goals and individual risk factors.
• Periodically reevaluate the necessity of continued hormone treatment in postmenopausal women.
• Discuss the risks and benefits of hormone therapy with your healthcare provider, as severe side effects, although rare, can occur.
• When used for up to 7 years, estrogens alone do not significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. However, when combined with progestin, the risk of heart disease, stroke, blood clots, dementia, and cancers of the breast and ovaries may increase.
• Regularly consult with your healthcare provider to evaluate the continued need for estrogen therapy, ideally every 3 to 6 months.
• For long-term users, annual physical exams are recommended as part of ongoing monitoring.
• Inform your surgeon if you are using Vagifem before any planned surgery. To decrease the risk of blood clots, you may need to discontinue use approximately 4 to 6 weeks before surgery.
• Consult your healthcare provider about when it is safe to resume Vagifem® following surgery.
• For additional information or concerns regarding the use of this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

What Are the Contraindications for Vagifem?

Vagifem is not recommended for use in women with any of the following conditions: 

• A known hypersensitivity to Vagifem or any of its ingredients.
• Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Has or have breast cancer or is suspected of having it
• Active DVT, PE, or a family or personal history of these conditions. 
• Hepatic impairment or related disease. 
• Have untreated endometrial hyperplasia
• Blood clotting disorder
• Have an inherited blood disorder known as porphyria
• Have a history of heart, liver, and kidney-related diseases. 

What Happens If You Forget to Take Vagifem?

• To achieve the best results from the medication, it is crucial to take it around the same time every day. 
• If you forget to take a dose of Vagifem 10 mcg tablet, take it as soon as you remember.
• However, if it is almost time to take your next dose, you may skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule. 
• Do not take two or more doses of the same medication to compensate for the missed dose. 
• You can set a reminder on your phone to avoid forgetting your dose. 

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Vagifem?

Do not take Vagifem more than recommended by your doctor. Overdose of estrogen may lead to unwelcome symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, breast tenderness, stomach pain, dizziness, fatigue, and withdrawal bleeding from the vagina in women. If someone has taken the insertion more than prescribed, they should discontinue taking the medication and seek symptomatic treatment. 

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store Vagifem?

• Keep this medication at a controlled room temperature ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). 
• Keep this product away from direct sunlight, excess heat, and moisture.
• Store all medications, including Vagifem, in a tightly closed container.
• Ensure that the product is kept away from the sight and reach of children and pets. 
• Do not keep medicines that are outdated or no longer needed. 
• Do not discard the medication in your garbage bin or throw it in wastewater. 
• Do not flush the medications unless instructed, as it may cause risk to the aquatic environment. 
• Avoid storing the product in moist or damp places like near the sink or in the bathroom.
• Dispose of the medication in special ways to avoid poisoning your child or pet.
• If you have doubts about the safe disposal of the medication, consult your pharmacist. 

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional the proper disposal of unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Drugs Interact with Vagifem?

Drug interactions can happen when you take two or more medications together. This simultaneous use may result in adverse reactions. It can either reduce or increase medication effectiveness or impact how the drug functions to treat a specific condition. These reactions can be harmful, and to avoid such a situation, you must know the drugs you are using. So, when you decide to buy Vagifem online, ensure that you are not taking the following drugs: 

• Anastrozole 
• Anti-diabetes medications 
• “Azole” antifungals
• Carbamazepine 
• Celecoxib 
• Clarithromycin 
• Clozapine 
• Cobicistat 
• Corticosteroids 
• Efavirenz 
• HIV protease inhibitors 
• HIV NNRTIs
• Lenalidomide 
• Melatonin 
• Mifepristone 
• Modafinil 
• Rifabutin 
• Rifampin 
• St. John’s wort
• seizure medications 
• Tacrolimus  
• Theophylline 
• Thyroid replacements
• Tizanidine 
• Tranexamic acid
• Ursodiol 

What Are the Other Vagifem Interactions?

Besides the above drugs, Vagifem vaginal tablets can also interact with certain foods, herbs, diseases, or lifestyle changes. To know these interactions, refer to the following list:

• Angioedema
• Gallbladder disease
• Hypercalcemia
• Hyperlipidemia
• Liver disease
• Melasma
• Depression
• Hypertension
• Thromboembolism/cardiovascular
• Hepatic neoplasms
• Fluid retention
• Glucose intolerance
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Carcinomas
• Hypercalcemia in breast cancer
• Retinal thrombosis
• Thyroid function tests

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Vagifem. Tell your doctor about prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products.]

What Can You Take Instead of Vagifem?

Drug alternatives allow patients to choose the medication best suited for them. Many people have certain medical conditions due to which they are unable to use a particular drug. On the other hand, people choose to change their treatment options when they are not achieving the desired results from their former medication. That’s why they opt for alternative drugs that complement their body needs and give the desired result. Below are some of the substitutes that people can take in place of Vagifem: 

• Premarin (conjugated estrogens)
• Estrace (estradiol)
• Imvexxy (estradiol)
• Estring Vaginal Ring (estradiol)
• Femring (estradiol acetate)
• Osphena (ospemifene)
• Intrarosa (prasterone)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.] 

Vagifem Cost & Coupons

Hormonal replacement therapy medications, including Vagifem, are prescription drugs that can be a bit expensive for some individuals. While these costs can be managed through health insurance plans, not every medication is covered under health plans. As a result, people need to make high-end expenses to meet their needs. That’s where Polar Bear Meds comes to the rescue by offering affordable medications to its customers. If you are residing in America, you can take advantage of this benefit. So, do not wait; buy quality medications at discounted prices from a trusted Canadian pharmacy. Additionally, first-time customers can use Vagifem discount coupons for extra savings.    

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vagifem a hormone replacement therapy?

Yes, this vaginal tablet is a form of hormone replacement therapy, as it contains estradiol (an estrogen form). This product is used for the management of menopause symptoms, especially vaginal discomfort, like irritation, itching, and dryness. Vagifem is a small vaginal tablet that should be inserted carefully. This tablet delivers estrogen directly to the affected area and helps restore moisture, relieving the discomfort associated with menopause. 

Can Vagifem be used by all postmenopausal women experiencing vaginal symptoms?

Vagifem is specifically designed for postmenopausal women experiencing symptoms such as vaginal dryness, irritation, and burning. However, it may not be suitable for women with certain health conditions, such as undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, a history of breast or uterine cancer, or those who are susceptible to blood clots. A thorough consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Vagifem is appropriate for your health profile.

How long can I use Vagifem vaginal tablets?

There are no specific durations for using Vagifem. Typically, your doctor may prescribe to use this vaginal table for two to five years, but that is not fixed. They may adjust the duration on the basis of your needs and response to the product. It is important to note that Vagifem is a prescription medication, so always consult your doctor before using it. They will guide you on its usage and duration.  

Does Vagifem make me pee more?

Vagifem does not directly increase urination. By treating menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness and urinary issues, it helps improve the vaginal and urinary tract health. As a result, it reduces frequent urination. However, if you suspect any unusual discomfort or irritation while urinating, talk to a medical expert.

Why should I use Vagifem at night?

It is best to use vaginal tablets at night, as it increases the medication’s effectiveness through better absorption. There is less movement at bedtime, helping the tablet stay in its position longer. Moreover, you will not feel any discomfort and can sleep peacefully, letting the medication do its thing.  However, if your doctor advises other instructions, follow them, as they are prescribed as per your body’s needs. 

Our Guarantee

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