Imvexxy (Estradiol)

Imvexxy is an estrogen hormone therapy used to treat moderate to severe painful intercourse caused by vaginal changes after menopause. The medication works by placing estradiol directly in the vaginal tissues, which helps restore moisture and thickness that can decline during menopause. Imvexxy is available as small, tear-shaped vaginal inserts in two strengths: 4 mcg and 10 mcg of estradiol.

Directions

This medication is administered intravaginally by inserting 1 vaginal insert daily for the first 2 weeks. After this initial period, the dosage changes to 1 insert twice weekly.

To use Imvexxy, remove 1 insert from the foil package and place it as far back in the vagina as it'll comfortably go, using a finger. The insert doesn't need an applicator. If a dose is missed during the twice-weekly schedule, insert it as soon as remembered, then return to the regular schedule for the next dose.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in this drug is estradiol.

Cautions

• Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
  • Any existing health conditions
  • Any allergies
  • A list of all medications currently being taken
• Imvexxy contains a form of estrogen, which may increase the risk of gallbladder problems. Let your doctor know right away if you develop sudden stomach pain, fever, nausea, or jaundice, which can be signs of gallbladder disease.
• Stop using Imvexxy and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe side effects such as extremely high calcium levels, sudden vision changes, high triglycerides, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. These symptoms can indicate more serious health problems that need medical attention.
• If you take thyroid replacement medication, your healthcare provider may need to monitor your thyroid levels while you're using Imvexxy. Estrogen can affect how your body uses thyroid hormones, so routine blood tests may be recommended.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding
• Known, suspected, or history of breast cancer
• Known or suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasia
• Active deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), or history of these conditions
• Active arterial thromboembolic disease such as stroke or myocardial infarction (MI), or a history of these conditions
• Known anaphylactic reaction or angioedema to estradiol vaginal inserts
• Known liver impairment or disease
• Known protein C, protein S, or antithrombin deficiency, or other known thrombophilic disorders
• Known or suspected pregnancy

Side Effects

Common side effects of Imvexxy include:

• Headache
• Breast tenderness or pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting

These effects are usually mild and often improve as your body adjusts to treatment. Breast soreness and headaches are among the most frequently reported symptoms. If these side effects are persistent, bothersome, or get worse over time, check in with your healthcare provider.

More serious but less common side effects can occur with estrogen therapy, including heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and certain types of cancer, such as breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer. Other potential risks include gallbladder disease, liver problems, high blood pressure, changes in calcium or thyroid levels, dementia, and worsening swelling of the face or tongue in women with a history of angioedema. Seek medical advice if you experience new breast lumps, unusual vaginal bleeding, sudden vision or speech changes, or severe new headaches.