What is Vagifem and why is it 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 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. 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. As a general rule, you should have an examination at least once a year while using this product.

How should you take Vagifem?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Vagifem. Each Vagifem 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 tablet. Conclude by gently removing the applicator and discarding it as you would a tampon applicator. The Vagifem 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 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. Do not take two doses at once. Store Vagifem at room temperature.

Are there any Vagifem side effects?
Vagifem side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Vagifem side effects may include abdominal pain, allergic reactions, back pain, genital itching, headache, skin rash, upper respiratory infection, vaginal spotting or discharge, and yeast infection.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Vagifem?
If Vagifem is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. There is no information on interactions with Vagifem.

Are there any special warnings about Vagifem?
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, or 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 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 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.



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