Vagifem 25 mcg is a type of Estrogen, a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. It is required for several processes in the body. When Estrogen is not produced in sufficient quantities in the body (for example, in postmenopausal women), it must be taken as medication. Vagifem is prescribed primarily for treating menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation. Some of its other uses are the prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and the replacement of Estrogen in women with ovarian failure or other disorders that result in a deficiency of natural Estrogen in the body. Estrogen medication is also used to treat cancer in women and men.   

When Estrogen is prescribed for a postmenopausal woman with a uterus, a progestin should also be initiated to reduce the likelihood of developing endometrial cancer. A woman without a uterus does not require progestin. Your doctor will always prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Vagifem should be used intravaginally using the supplied applicator. One tablet a day for two weeks, followed by one tablet twice weekly. Follow your doctor's advice to avoid unwanted effects.

Do not start taking Vagifem 25 mcg under the following conditions:

   — Unusual vaginal bleeding, which your doctor has not evaluated

   — Currently have or have had certain cancers

   — Had a stroke or heart attack in the past

   — Have or had hepatic insufficiency

   — Hypersensitivity to Estrogen or any of its ingredients

   — Pregnancy

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. The hormone estrogen can pass into your milk. Your doctor may need to check you more carefully if you have certain medical conditions such as migraine, endometriosis, problems with your heart, liver, or kidneys, or high calcium levels in the bloodstream. You should tell your doctor about all the medications you take. This includes prescription, and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, minerals and herbal preparations. If you are going to have surgery, you may need to discontinue estrogen therapy.   

Some drugs can render conjugated estrogens less effective, while others could produce serious side effects when coupled with Estriol. Always keep your doctor in the loop about every prescription and other medication you are on before taking this drug. Do not ever consider starting a new course on this drug without seeking your doctor's advice first.

Side effects of Vagifem include:

   — Pain while passing water or urine

   — Frequent urination

   — Gall bladder trouble

   — Dark patches or red marks on the skin

   — Bruises or swelling on the legs

   — Memory loss

   — Leg cramps

   — Surplus vaginal discharge

   — An itching aggravation in or around the vagina is some of the side effects caused by this drug.

Other common occurrences include headaches, sick skin rashes, tender breasts, sudden chest pain, and dizziness. You could also face some grievances, such as pre-menstrual symptoms, irregular heartbeats, breathing difficulties, and yellowing of the skin. Irrespective of whatever reaction you might experience, it is imperative that you immediately get in touch with your doctor.