Women's Health

Vagifem (Progesterone)

Vagifem is used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, and vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation. Other uses include prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, and replacement of estrogen in women with ovarian failure or other conditions that cause a lack of natural estrogen in the body. Vagifem is sometimes used as part of cancer treatment in women and men.

Vagifem may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Take Vagifem exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Long-term Vagifem treatment may increase your risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using Vagifem long-term.

Taking progestin while using Vagifem may lower your risk of uterine cancer. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using Vagifem.

Have regular physical exams and mammograms, and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using Vagifem. Your doctor should check your progress every 3 to 6 months to determine whether you should continue this treatment.

If you need medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are taking Vagifem.

Vagifem is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. Estrogen is necessary for many processes in the body.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Store progesterone at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

You should not take progesterone if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• liver disease;
• abnormal vaginal bleeding that a doctor has not checked;
• any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer;
• a recent history of heart attack or stroke;
• if you are pregnant;
• if you have ever had a blood clot (especially in your lung or your lower body); or
• if you are allergic to any medicines or food dyes.

• heart disease;
• kidney disease;
• family history of blood clots;
• a history of jaundice caused by pregnancy or taking hormones;
• endometriosis;
• lupus;
• porphyria;
• gallbladder disease;
• underactive thyroid;
• asthma;
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• migraines;
• low levels of calcium in your blood; or
• if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy).