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Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem)

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Vagifem

Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) cause?

As Vagifem® contains a very small amount of estrogen, the side effects are usually well tolerated. 

Some of the common side effects include: 
  • Headache 
  • Stomach pain
  • Vaginal discharge or discomfort 
If it is painful during the insertion of the applicator into the vagina, the applicator may be moistened with water or lubricated with a lubricating cream/jelly.

Rare but serious side effects include:
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Sudden, new severe headaches 
  • A large rise in your blood pressure which may cause headaches, tiredness, dizziness.
  • Dark urine or light-coloured stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, severe stomach pain, yellowing of your eyes or skin. These may be signs of liver disease.
  • Painful swelling and redness of the legs, sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing which could be signs of a blood clot.
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 
  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately:

Before taking Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 
  • You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
  • You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies. 
  • You have any unexplained vaginal bleeding.
  • You have a history of or current medical conditions such as liver problems, stroke, heart disease, blood clots, migraine headaches, epilepsy, diabetes mellitus or cancer.
  • You are going for surgery or will be on bed rest. 

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Vaginal Estradiol (Vagifem) ?

  • Updated on 5/31/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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