Vagifem contains estradiol, a form of estrogen, that can be used to treat symptoms of menopause such as burning, irritation, and dryness in the vagina. Estrogen is a female sex hormone responsible for regulating many important bodily processes. During menopause, this hormone may become unbalanced. If this occurs, you may be prescribed Vagifem to alleviate symptoms. This medication is a small vaginal insert that is administered in a disposable applicator. Vagifem should not be used if you are pregnant or have vaginal bleeding, liver disease, or a history of blood clots.

Vagifem (estradiol) is a vaginal insert administered with a preloaded, single-use applicator. Take Vagifem exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Begin by tearing off a single applicator
• Remove plastic wrap
• Place tablet in the applicator
• Hold applicator with one hand and press the applicator plunger down
• Find a comfortable position to insert the medication
• Once half of the applicator is inside the vagina, press the plunger until it is fully depressed
• Remove the applicator and discard

To ensure Vagifem is safe for you, inform your doctor if you are affected by high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol. Additionally, Vagifem may not be safe for you if you have:

• Liver problems
• Kidney disease
• Gallbladder disease
• Asthma
• Epilepsy or seizure disorder
• Migraines
• Lupus
• Endometriosis
• Angioedema
• Thyroid disorder
• Low levels of blood calcium

Common side effects of Vagifem:

• Headache
• Breast pain
• Swelling in the hands or feet
• Weight gain
• Vaginal itching, discharge, or changes in menstrual period
• Nausea, bloating, vomiting, or stomach cramps

If you have severe side effects of Vagifem, call your doctor at once. Severe side effects may include:

• Heart attack symptoms (chest pain, nausea, sweating, and pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder)
• Stroke symptoms (sudden numbness, weakness, severe headache, slurred speech, or vision and balance problems)
• Blood clot symptoms (vision loss, stabbing chest pain, blood in cough, shortness of breath, and pain or warmth in the legs)
• Swelling or tenderness in the stomach
• Memory problems, unusual behavior, or confusion
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• A lump in the breast
• Symptoms of high calcium levels in your blood (nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst, increased urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, and lack of energy)

How long does it take to notice the full benefits of Vagifem?

Vagifem is a slow-releasing tablet that works over the span of several hours after the tablet is inserted. If you administer Vagifem (estradiol) before bed, the tablet will dissolve overnight. After 8 weeks of treatment, Vagifem will help alleviate most of the symptoms. However, the full benefit of Vagifem may take up to 12 weeks to occur. Ask your doctor how long you should continue treatment with Vagifem.

What should I avoid while using Vagifem?

Several known drug interactions of Vagifem (estradiol) include levothyroxine, metformin, and prednisone. However, this is not a complete list of Vagifem interactions, and combining estradiol with other medications may cause adverse effects. It is important to inform your doctor about all the prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you use. Preventing interactions is a critical part of maximizing the benefits of Vagifem.