Vagifem vs Estrace: Decoding the Options for Vaginal Atrophy Treatment
Vaginal atrophy is a prevalent condition that affects women as they age.
Hormone therapy is a commonly prescribed treatment option, with Vagifem and Estrace being popular choices.
They provide relief from symptoms like dryness, itching, and painful intercourse, improving overall vaginal health.
However, they differ in formulation, dosage forms, and administration methods.
Understanding these differences is essential for finding the right therapy to decrease symptoms and enhance vaginal health.
Read on to learn more about difference between Vagifem and Estrace.
Overview
An overview of Vagifem vs Estrace includes:
| Aspect | Vagifem | Estrace |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Estradiol | Estradiol |
| Purpose | Treat symptoms of vaginal atrophy | Treat symptoms of vaginal atrophy, prevent osteoporosis |
| Hygienic Issues | Lower occurrence compared to Estrace cream | Higher occurrence compared to Vagifem |
| Side Effects | Can vary, common side effects include heart attack symptoms, memory problems, signs of stroke etc. | Can vary, common side effects include heart attack symptoms, memory problems, signs of stroke etc. |
| Interactions | 212 drug interactions and 17 disease interactions | 323 drug interactions and 17 disease interactions |
| Dosage | 10 mcg, 25 mcg vaginal tablets | 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg tablets, vaginal cream |
| Cost (approx.) | Price varies, $189 for 8 tablets (10 mcg), $413 for 18 tablets (10 mcg) | $583 for 100 tablets (0.5 mg), $373 for 42.5 grams (vaginal cream) |
Understanding Vagifem
Vagifem is a brand-name medication that contains Estradiol, a form of Estrogen.
It is a medication prescribed to decrease the symptoms of vaginal atrophy due to menopause.
The purpose of Vagifem is to enhance vaginal health and lower the symptoms associated with vaginal atrophy, such as dryness, itching, burning, and discomfort during intercourse.
Vagifem vaginal insert tablets were approved by the FDA in 1999.
Understanding Estrace
Estrace is a brand-name Estradiol medication used to treat vulvar and vaginal atrophy symptoms caused by menopause.
It is used to decrease menopause-related symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, and mood changes and to prevent osteoporosis.
Estrace has different forms, including tablets, creams, and vaginal rings.
Estrace vs Vagifem effectiveness
In a study comparing vaginal Estrogen cream and Vagifem for treating atrophic vaginitis (Vaginal atrophy), both medications effectively improved symptoms.
There was no significant difference in their effectiveness for symptom relief.
However, Vagifem demonstrated a lower occurrence of hygienic issues than Estrogen cream.
Another study highlighted that transdermal Estradiol, a form of Estrogen applied to the skin, is more easily absorbed than oral Estrogen in hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms.
Despite the difference in absorption, both forms of Estradiol were found to be equally effective in relieving menopausal symptoms.
Side effects of Estrace vs Vagifem
The side effects of Vagifem or Estrace can differ from person to person.
However, some of the common side effects of Vagifem or Estrace include:
- Heart attack symptoms – chest pain, nausea
- Signs of a stroke – sudden numbness or weakness, headache
- Memory problems
- Signs of a blood clot – feeling short of breath, sudden vision loss, or stabbing chest pain
- Unusual vaginal bleedingTenderness or swelling in the stomach
- High levels of calcium in the blood
- Jaundice
- Lump in the breast
Interactions
According to Drugs.com, Vagifem has 212 drug interactions (Anastrozole, carfilzomib, etc) and 17 disease interactions.
However, Estrace has 323 drug interactions (Ambien, aspirin, etc) and 17 disease interactions.
It is recommended to refrain from consuming alcohol while using these medications due to potential interactions with alcohol.
Estradiol, the active ingredient of both medications, is associated with an increased risk of breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer.
It is crucial to discuss this risk with your healthcare provider.
Dosage of Vagifem vs Estrace
The recommended dosage for Estrace vaginal cream is 2 to 4 grams daily for one to two weeks, gradually decreasing to half of that amount for a similar period.
Estrace tablets are available in 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg.
Vagifem, on the other hand, is available as vaginal tablets with a dosage strength of 10 mcg and 25 mcg.
The usual dosing regimen for Vagifem involves inserting one tablet intravaginally daily for two weeks, followed by one tablet inserted twice weekly.
Cost of Estrace and Vagifem
The price of Vagifem can differ based on the pharmacy and the quantity bought.
Vagifem vaginal tablets (10 mcg) cost approximately $189 for 8 tablets and around $413 for 18 tablets.
Whereas the cost of Estrace oral tablets (0.5 mg) is approximately $583 for 100 tablets.
Estrace Vaginal Cream (0.1 mg/g) costs around $373 for 42.5 grams.
Takeaway
Both Vagifem and Estrace are effective medications for addressing symptoms related to vaginal atrophy caused by menopause.
They contain Estradiol, a form of Estrogen, which helps improve vaginal health and alleviate symptoms such as dryness, itching, burning, and painful intercourse.
While their effectiveness is similar, Vagifem may have fewer hygienic issues than Estrogen cream.
It is essential to discuss the risks, benefits, and individual preferences with a healthcare provider.
Both medications carry a potential risk of increased breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer.
The dosage and cost vary between Vagifem and Estrace.
It is recommended to follow the prescribed dosing instructions and consult with a healthcare provider before self-medicating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vagifem and Estrace cream the same?
Vagifem and Estrace cream are not the same, although they contain Estradiol as the active ingredient. Vagifem is a brand-name vaginal tablet, while Estrace cream is a topical vaginal cream. They have different dosing regimens, formulations, and potential side effects.
Do Vagifem and Estrace contain the same amount of Estradiol?
Vagifem and Estrace do not contain the same amount of Estradiol. Vagifem vaginal tablets are available in 10 mcg and 25 mcg strengths, while the concentration of Estradiol in Estrace cream may vary. A healthcare provider should determine the specific dosage.
Is it safe to use Vagifem and Estrace together?
Using Vagifem and Estrace cream without consulting a healthcare provider is not advised. Estrogen use, with or without progestins, can raise the risk of heart attacks, breast cancer, strokes or blood clots. It’s essential to seek professional guidance to assess the risks and benefits before combining these medications.
Can you take Vagifem and Estrace at the same time?
Using Vagifem and Estrace together is not recommended as they both contain the same active ingredient, Estrogen. Using both can increase the risk of specific side effects. Before combining hormone therapies, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is crucial.
Are Vagifem and Estrace cream the same?
Vagifem and Estrace cream is not the same. Vagifem is a vaginal tablet containing Estradiol, while Estrace cream is a topical cream containing Estradiol. They have different forms and application methods and have variations in dosing.
