Vagifem

Vagifem should not be used to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, or dementia. Estrogens have been shown to increase the risk of heart disease (including heart attack), stroke, dementia, serious blood clots (eg, in the lungs or legs), cancer of the uterus, and breast cancer in some women. Tell your doctor right away if you have unusual vaginal bleeding while you use Vagifem . Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the benefits and risks of using Vagifem .

Vagifem should be used for the shortest possible time at the lowest effective dose to minimize the risk of these side effects. Talk with your doctor regularly about your need to use Vagifem .

Vagifem is used for:

Treating itching, burning, and dryness in or around the vaginal area in women past menopause.

Vagifem is vaginal female hormone tablet. It works by replacing female hormones in women who are no longer able to produce the proper amount of hormone.

Use Vagifem as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

* An extra patient leaflet is available with Vagifem . Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.

* To use, tear off a single applicator, separate the plastic wrap, and remove the applicator from the plastic wrap.

* Select the position for vaginal insertion that is most comfortable for you (lying on the bed, squatting, or standing with one leg on a stool).

* Use the finger of one hand to press the applicator plunger. Use the other hand to gently and comfortably guide the applicator into the vagina. If the tablet falls out of the applicator before inserting the filled applicator, use a new applicator with a fresh tablet.

* Insert the tablet as far into the vagina as it can comfortably go without force.

* After inserting the filled applicator, gently press the plunger until you hear a click and the plunger is fully depressed. This will eject the tablet inside your vagina. The tablet will dissolve slowly over several hours.

* After depressing the plunger, gently remove the applicator and throw it away. Do not reuse the applicator.

* You may insert the tablet-filled applicator any time of day. You should use the applicator at the same time each day.

* Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase the risk of Vagifem 's side effects. Talk to your doctor before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet while you are taking Vagifem .

* If you miss a dose of Vagifem , use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Vagifem .

* Vagifem may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Vagifem with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

* Limit alcoholic beverages while you are using Vagifem .

* Vagifem may cause dark skin patches on your face (melasma). Exposure to the sun may make these patches darker and you may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps. Consult your doctor regarding the use of sunscreens and protective clothing.

* Vagifem may increase the risk of blood clots. The risk may be greater if you smoke (especially in women older than 35 years of age).

* Contact your doctor if vaginal bleeding of unknown cause occurs. This could be a sign of a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.

* Contact your doctor if vaginal discomfort occurs or if you suspect you have developed an infection while taking Vagifem .

* Follow your doctor's instructions for examining your breasts, and report any lumps immediately.

* If you wear contact lenses and you develop problems with them, contact your doctor.

* If you will be having surgery or will be confined to a chair or bed for a long period of time (eg, a long plane flight), notify your doctor beforehand. Special precautions may need to be taken in these circumstances while you are taking Vagifem .

* Vagifem may increase the risk of breast and endometrial cancer. Your doctor may prescribe another hormone (progestin) to decrease this risk.

* Vagifem may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are using Vagifem .

* Your doctor should reevaluate you every 3 to 6 months to determine whether or not you need to continue taking Vagifem .

* Diabetes patients - Vagifem may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.

* Lab tests, including physical exams and blood pressure, may be performed while you use Vagifem . You should have breast and pelvic exams, and a Pap test at least once a year. You should also have periodic mammograms as determined by your doctor. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

* Vagifem should not be used in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Vagifem if you are pregnant. Avoid becoming pregnant while you are taking it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Vagifem is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Vagifem , check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Store Vagifem at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Vagifem out of the reach of children and away from pets.

* If you have any questions about Vagifem , please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

* Vagifem is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

* If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.