Vagirux 10mcg Vaginal Tablets

What are Vagirux tablets?

Vagirux 10mcg vaginal tablets are a local hormone replacement therapy (HRT) used to relieve vaginal symptoms caused by menopause. They contain the active ingredient estradiol, a form of oestrogen that helps restore moisture and improve the condition of vaginal tissues affected by declining hormone levels.

The tablets, or pessaries, are inserted directly into the vagina using a multiple use applicator, allowing the medication to work locally where symptoms occur.

What is Vagirux used for?

As oestrogen levels decline during menopause, vaginal tissues can become thinner, drier, and more sensitive. Vagirux can help ease the symptoms caused by this, including;

• vaginal dryness
• itching or irritation
• burning or soreness
• discomfort during sex
• vaginal tightness

Vaginal oestrogen treatments are commonly recommended when these kinds of local menopausal symptoms are significantly affecting your quality of life.

How does Vagirux work?

Vagirux works by replacing small amounts of oestrogen directly within the vaginal tissues.

The estradiol in Vagirux helps by:

• improving vaginal moisture
• increasing tissue elasticity
• reducing irritation and dryness
• supporting the natural vaginal environment

Because the treatment is applied directly, only small amounts of oestrogen are absorbed into the bloodstream compared with systemic HRT.

How long does Vagirux take to work?

Some people notice symptom improvement within a few weeks, although the full benefits of the treatment can take longer.

Typical timelines:

• Initial improvement: 2–4 weeks.
• Full symptom relief: up to 12 weeks.

If you want to see the full effects of the tablets, consistency is important during treatment, especially during the first two weeks of your treatment.

Is Vagirux safe?

Vagirux is generally considered safe for many people when used as prescribed.

Because it delivers low-dose oestrogen locally, less of the treatment is absorbed into your bloodstream than with some other forms of HRT. However, all hormone treatments carry potential risks and may not be suitable for everyone.

Your prescriber will assess whether Vagirux is appropriate based on your medical history and symptoms.

Benefits of Vagirux tablets

Benefits of Vagirux can include:

• relief from vaginal dryness and discomfort
• improved comfort during sex
• reduced irritation and soreness
• minimal whole-body hormone exposure
• convenient twice-weekly maintenance dosing after initial treatment
• reduction of UTI’s if this is something you are prone to

For many people, local oestrogen treatments can significantly improve their day-to-day comfort and quality of life during menopause.

How to use Vagirux tablets

Always use Vagirux exactly as prescribed.

The usual dosing schedule for Vagirux is:

• One tablet daily for the first two weeks.
• Then one tablet twice weekly for maintenance.

When using Vagirux:

• Wash your hands before use.
• Insert the applicator gently into the vagina.
• Release the tablet according to the instructions.
• Thoroughly clean the applicator after use.

Using the tablets at bedtime may help improve comfort, while allowing the tablets the maximum amount of time to get to work.

How long can you use Vagirux for?

Vagirux can be used long term if recommended by your healthcare professional.

Local menopausal symptoms may return if treatment is stopped, so ongoing treatment is sometimes needed to keep your symptoms at bay.

You should regularly check in with your clinician if you do want to use the tablets long term, to make sure the treatment remains suitable.

Vagirux side effects

Like all medicines, Vagirux can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Common side effects:

• vaginal irritation
• itching or discomfort
• mild abdominal pain
• headache

Less common side effects:

• vaginal bleeding or spotting
• nausea
• breast tenderness

These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

For more on side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

Does Vagirux cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not considered a common side effect of Vagirux.

Because Vagirux is a low-dose local treatment with limited fully-body absorption, it's less likely to cause whole-body hormone-related effects compared with systemic HRT.

When not to use Vagirux tablets

Vagirux may not be suitable if you:

• have a history of oestrogen-sensitive cancers
• have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• have untreated endometrial hyperplasia
• are allergic to estradiol or any ingredients in the tablets

Always speak to a healthcare professional before starting treatment.

Storage information

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep in the original packaging.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

Alternatives to Vagirux tablets

If Vagirux is not suitable, other vaginal menopause treatments may include:

Local oestrogen treatments

• vaginal creams containing estriol, like Ovestin or Ovesse
• vaginal rings that release oestrogen gradually
• other vaginal estradiol tablets, like Gina and Vagifem

Non-hormonal options

• vaginal moisturisers
• lubricants for dryness and discomfort

Ultimately, your choice of treatment will depend on how severe your symptoms are, your personal preference, and what your clinician agrees is suitable for you.

Vagirux vs Vagifem

Vagirux and Vagifem both contain estradiol 10mcg and work in a very similar way.

The main differences are typically:

• brand name
• packaging and applicator design
• manufacturer

Both are used to treat vaginal symptoms of menopause through local oestrogen therapy.

Frequently asked questions about Vagirux tablets

Can I just stop taking Vagirux?

You can stop treatment, but menopausal symptoms like dryness and irritation may gradually return over time.

What are the first signs of oestrogen working?

Many people first notice reduced dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Improved comfort during daily activities and sex may also occur as treatment continues.

Can I get Vagirux on the NHS?

Yes, Vagirux may be prescribed on the NHS if your healthcare professional believes it's clinically appropriate for your symptoms.

Sources

• Vagirux 10 micrograms vaginal tablets. EMC. [Accessed 12 May 2026].
• Menopause. NHS. [Accessed 12 May 2026].
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). NHS. [Accessed 12 May 2026].
• Vaginal dryness. NHS. [Accessed 12 May 2026].
• Menopause: diagnosis and management. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. [Accessed 12 May 2026].
• Menopause. NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries. [Accessed 12 May 2026].