Vagifem Uses

Vagifem is used for treating certain vaginal problems that can be caused by low estrogen levels after menopause. In particular, Vagifem uses include treating vaginal burning, dryness, and itching. This prescription medication is ideal for women whose primary menopause symptoms are vaginal, as using Vagifem instead of taking the hormones by mouth exposes the body to a lower amount of hormones.

 

Vagifem Uses: An Overview

Vagifem® (estradiol vaginal tablets) is a prescription hormone replacement therapy medication. It comes in the form of small tablets that are inserted vaginally using disposable, single-use applicators. Vagifem is approved to treat vaginal inflammation caused by thinning of the vaginal tissues, usually the result of low estrogen levels after menopause. Vagifem contains estradiol, the primary estrogen hormone in premenopausal women; it does not contain any progesterone hormones.
 

Vagifem Uses for Vaginal Symptoms

Menopause is a normal change in a woman's life when she stops having her period. That's why some people call menopause "the change of life." A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a period for 12 months in a row and there are no other causes for this change. Menopause symptoms can affect the entire body, including the vagina. Vaginal menopause symptoms are usually related to thinning of the vaginal tissues and may include:
 
  • Burning or other pain
  • Dryness
  • Itching.
     
These symptoms occur due to low estradiol levels after menopause. Because Vagifem helps replace some of the estradiol lost during menopause, it not only helps relieve the vaginal symptoms, but can also reduce thinning of the vaginal tissues.
 
For menopause treatment, Vagifem should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest period necessary. Vagifem is ideal for women whose main menopause symptoms are vaginal in nature, as using the tablets (instead of taking the hormones by mouth) exposes the body to a lower dose of the hormones.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;