Products
Some vaginal tablets are commercially available. Also used are vaginal suppositories and vaginal capsules.
Structure and properties
Vaginal tablets are solid, single-dose preparations intended for vaginal use. In general, they meet the definition of non-coated tablets or film-coated tablets. Detailed information can be found under the relevant articles. Vaginal tablets contain the same excipients, such as lactose (milk sugar), microcrystalline cellulose, starch, and magnesium stearate.
Effects
Vaginal tablets often have antimicrobial properties, meaning they are effective against bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Some contain probiotics for restoring vaginal flora.
Indications for use
Typical indications for vaginal tablets are:
- Vaginal fungus
- Bacterial or parasitic vaginal infections.
- Restoration of the vaginal flora, for example after therapy with antibiotics.
There are other indications.
Dosage
According to the professional information.
- Vaginal tablets are usually administered in the evening before bedtime.
- Wash hands with soap and water or put on gloves or a fingerstall.
- Insert the tablet carefully and as deeply as possible into the vagina in the supine position with the legs slightly tightened. Some medicines come with an applicator for this purpose.
- For ease, the tablet may be moistened with a drop of water.
- Wash hands with soap and water.
Active ingredients
Active ingredients, which may be contained in vaginal tablets, include (selection): antibiotics:
- Pentamycin
Antifungals:
- Clotrimazole
Disinfectant:
- Dequalinium chloride
- Hexetidine
Estrogens:
- Estradiol
- Estriol
Probiotics:
- Lactobacilli
Prostaglandins:
- Dinoprostone
Contraindications
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Vaginal tablets may interfere with the safety of condoms and diaphragms.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include local reactions such as irritation, redness, itching, and a burning sensation. Patients may have an allergic reaction to the active ingredients or excipients. The active ingredients contained may be absorbed into the circulation and cause systemic side effects on other organs. It is possible that undissolved tablet residue may leak from the vagina.
