Vagifem provides a gradual release of estradiol and is effective in hormone replacement therapy. This drug supports primary and secondary female sexual characteristics and reduces the symptoms of vaginal atrophy during the postmenopausal period.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved Vagifem in October 2010. Novo Nordisk is the applicant and holder of the marketing authorization for the drug.
Novo Nordisk Company supplies Vagifem to Australia and some other countries in the world (for example, the USA). In addition to Vagifem, Novo Nordisk offers several other drugs with low and ultra-low doses for an effective treatment of estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women.
Vaginal tablets that contain 10 mcg of estradiol are used in hormonal replacement therapy. Such tablets can be found under the name Vagifem or Vagifem Low. Previously, 25 mcg tablets were used, yet the marketing of this dosage strength in Australia was discontinued.
Vagifem tablets are placed in disposable plastic applicators. Each applicator is packed in PVC/aluminum blisters. One package contains 8, 18 or 24 applicators.
Vagifem should be used after the atrophic vaginitis was diagnosed. Typically, this condition occurs in women aged 45 to 55 years, and is also possible at any age after chemotherapy or ovarian surgery.
Hormonal therapy allows minimizing the negative consequences that result from the termination of the female hormones production. Vagifem helps decrease or totally eliminate , such symptoms of estrogen deficiency, as:
During the hormonal therapy, the patient improves relationships with other people and returns the former labor productivity. Vagifem tablets gradually release estradiol and are therefore more effective than hormonal sprays, gels or creams, available in Australia.
Vagifem tablets are administered intravaginally. A convenient applicator allows you to quickly and safely introduce this hormonal drug. To reduce the symptoms of menopause, follow the recommendations for use:
Before starting the hormone replacement therapy, tell your doctor about any of the following conditions: severe obesity, gall bladder disease, asthma, varicose veins or high triglycerides in the blood. These factors can cause complications during the treatment of menopausal symptoms.
Most women, who use Vagifem tablets, do not have any adverse reactions. Clinical trials and a large number of positive reviews confirm this fact.
In Australia, Vagifem was approved 7 years ago. In other countries of the world, for example, the USA, this hormonal drug has been used since the end of the last century. Therefore, the benefits and risks of Vagifem are studied not only by clinical trials, but also by lengthy post-marketing research.
During postmarketing studies, the list of adverse drug reactions included fluid retention in tissues and body cavities, decreased libido, asthma aggravation, frequent defecation, migraine and insomnia.
It should be noted that Vagifem tablets gradually release the active substance and contain very low doses of estradiol. Therefore, the risks of side effects, as well as overdoses, are minimal.
If any side effects occur, call and consult a doctor. If there is a side effect that is not in the leaflet, you can call the TGA and report it.
Vagifem cost in Australia is not very high. Today, you can find this drug in the local drugstores at the price of $ 31-37 (18 applicators with tablets). It should be noted that thanks to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) program, you can purchase Vagifem at a lower price.
Price for Vagifem depends on the package size and the place of purchase. The larger the package, the lower the price of a single dose. One large package (24 applicators) is enough for almost 6 months of treatment.
Symptoms of menopause can manifest in the course of several months, up to several years. If Vagifem is supposed to be used for a long time, it is better to find a pharmacy that will offer the lowest prices. Large pharmacy chains offer lower prices, than small pharmacies.
Today, you can buy Vagifem in Australia online and minimize the treatment costs for atrophic vaginitis. The price of 18 Vagifem tablets in various online pharmacies is $ 26-27.
To order Vagifem online, you need to make a few simple steps. Add the desired amount of the hormonal drug to the shopping cart, place the order and complete your purchase.
Vagifem will be sent to the specified address. As a rule, the delivery time is up to 3-5 working days. The delivery time of Vagifem to remote areas of Australia can exceed 10 days.