What is Yuvafem (Estradiol), a brand-name medication?

From the Guidelines

Yuvafem is a brand-name medication that contains estradiol, a form of estrogen, used to treat vaginal symptoms associated with menopause. According to the most recent guidelines, vaginal estrogen is the most effective treatment for vaginal dryness leading to sexual dysfunction and has been shown to be effective in treating itching, discomfort, and painful intercourse in postmenopausal individuals 1. The standard dosage and administration of Yuvafem are crucial for its effectiveness, and patients should follow the recommended schedule for best results.

Key Points to Consider

• Yuvafem works by replacing estrogen that naturally decreases during menopause, helping to restore vaginal tissue health and lubrication.
• Unlike oral estrogen therapies, Yuvafem provides localized treatment with minimal systemic absorption, which may reduce the risk of side effects associated with systemic hormone therapy.
• A large cohort study of almost 50,000 patients with breast cancer followed for up to 20 years showed no evidence that there was a higher risk of breast cancer–specific mortality in those using vaginal estrogen 1.
• Common side effects may include headache, breast pain, vaginal discharge, or abdominal pain, and patients with a history of breast cancer, estrogen-dependent tumors, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, or blood clotting disorders should discuss risks with their healthcare provider before using this medication.

Important Considerations for Healthcare Providers

• The safety of vaginal hormones has not been firmly established in survivors of estrogen-dependent cancers, and therefore, Yuvafem should be used with caution in these patients 1.
• Alternative treatments, such as pelvic physical therapy, vaginal dilators, and other topical prescription medications, may also be considered for survivors with sexual dysfunction.
• Healthcare providers should carefully evaluate the benefits and risks of Yuvafem and discuss them with their patients to determine the best course of treatment.

From the FDA Drug Label

The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Yuvafem (Estradiol) Medication

• Yuvafem is a brand-name medication containing estradiol, which is used to treat moderate to severe dyspareunia, a symptom of vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA) due to menopause 2, 3.
• Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone that helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain the health of the reproductive system 4, 5.
• Yuvafem is available in the form of a softgel vaginal insert, which is designed to be inserted into the vagina to deliver a localized dose of estradiol 2, 3.
• The medication works by increasing the levels of estrogen in the vagina, which helps to improve the symptoms of VVA, such as vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and vulvar/vaginal irritation 2, 3, 6.

Key Benefits and Features

• Yuvafem has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of VVA, including dyspareunia, vaginal dryness, and vulvar/vaginal irritation 2, 3, 6.
• The medication has a unique formulation that allows for rapid dissolution and minimal systemic absorption, reducing the risk of side effects 2.
• Yuvafem is available in different doses, including 4-µg and 10-µg softgel vaginal inserts, which can be tailored to individual patient needs 2, 3.
• The medication has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of moderate to severe dyspareunia due to menopause 2, 3.