Vagifem

This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication. 

Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.

If after using Vagifem there is a sudden allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), with symptoms like swelling of the face, tongue, or throat making it difficult to breathe or swallow, or there is wheezing, hives, rash, blistering or peeling of the skin, call a doctor or 911 right away, or go to an emergency room immediately.

Most people who use Vagifem do not experience any negative side effects. 

Some mild side effects have been reported, including:

• mild nausea or vomiting
• loss of appetite
• swollen breasts
• acne or skin color changes
• decreased sex drive (lower libido)
• migraine or dizziness
• vaginal pain, dryness, or discomfort
• edema in ankles or feet
• depression
• changes in the menstrual period cycle
• break-through bleeding

There is a special warning that precautions for use exist for patients with Endometrial Hyperplasia and carcinoma.

Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.

There may be more serious side effects, that should be reported to a doctor immediately. These include:

• chest pain or heavy feeling
• pain spreading to the arm or shoulder
• nausea
• sweating
• feeling generally ill
• sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
• sudden headache
• confusion
• problems with vision, speech, or balance
• pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs
• abnormal vaginal bleeding
• pain, swelling, or tenderness in the stomach
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• a lump in either breast.

Vagifem vaginal suppositories are used to treat symptoms of a deficiency in the sex hormone estrogen due to menopause.  The main symptoms of low estrogen are hot flashes, palpitations, night sweats, change of mood, anxiety, insomnia, depression, and forgetfulness.

The only certain diagnosis comes from a blood test to measure estrogen levels. The results give the levels of all three forms of estrogen — estrone (E1), estradiol (E2) and estriol (E3). Estrone is the primary hormone the body produces when going through menopause. It’s a weaker form of estrogen than estradiol. Production of estradiol declines all through the years of perimenopause, from 30 to 400 pg/mL for premenopausal women down to below 30 pg/mL for postmenopausal women.

Vagifem is administered intra-vaginally as a local estrogen therapy by use of an applicator.

Important Information Regarding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):

HRT medications are powerful tools for managing hormonal changes. To ensure the medication’s safety and effectiveness, it’s important to understand who can benefit from it most. According to Israeli Ministry of Health regulations, Vagifem can currently only be prescribed for individuals assigned as female at birth.