VAGIFEM

Drug Name: VAGIFEM

VAGIFEM DESCRIPTION:
ESTRADIOL - VAGINAL TABLETS (ess-truh-DYE-all)

COMMON VAGIFEM BRAND NAME(S):
Vagifem

VAGIFEM SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache or vaginal spotting/discharge may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: increased thirst or urination; abnormal vaginal bleeding, stomach pain, rash, yellowing of eyes or skin. If you will be confined to a chair or bed for a prolonged period (e.g., a very long plane flight) your doctor may choose to stop your estradiol. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE VAGIFEM:
VAGIFEM: Insert the applicator into the vagina as directed and push the plunger to release the medication. Insert one tablet vaginally once daily for the first two weeks and then one tablet twice weekly; or as directed by your doctor. Read and learn the patient instruction leaflet provided by your pharmacist. Consult your pharmacist.

VAGIFEM WARNING:
VAGIFEM could increase the chance of womb (endometrial) cancer in women who have been through menopause. This risk appears to depend on the length of time VAGIFEM is used and the amount of estrogen per dose. Therefore, the lowest estradiol dose that relieves vaginal symptoms should be used for the shortest period of time, as determined by you and your doctor. If you use VAGIFEM for an extended period, your doctor should check you at least every 6 months. If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, notify your doctor immediately.

VAGIFEM USES:
Estradiol is used to treat vaginal symptoms associated with the change of life (menopause). VAGIFEM is not indicated for stopping breast milk production after childbirth.

VAGIFEM PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: family medical history (e.g., breast cancer), abnormal breast exam, gallbladder or bone disease, heart problems (e.g., coronary artery disease), strokes (cerebral vascular disease), liver or kidney problems, diabetes, asthma, seizures, migraine headaches, history of yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice) during pregnancy, vaginal infection, high blood pressure, allergies. VAGIFEM is not recommended for use if you have the following medical conditions: estrogen-related cancer (e.g., breast, endometrial); abnormal vaginal bleeding; blood disorder (porphyria); a history of blood vessel problems (e.g., thrombophlebitis) or blood clots related to estrogen use; or recent blood clots. VAGIFEM must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether VAGIFEM passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using VAGIFEM is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

VAGIFEM DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use. This product can affect the results of certain laboratory tests (e.g., prothrombin time, thyroid). Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctors know you use VAGIFEM. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

VAGIFEM OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea.

VAGIFEM NOTES:
Do not share VAGIFEM with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., PAP smears, breast exams) may be performed to monitor your progress. Keep regular medical appointments. Learn the self-breast exam technique and check them monthly.

MISSED VAGIFEM DOSE:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

VAGIFEM STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.