Gina 10 Micrograms Vaginal Tablets

Gina is a vaginal tablet containing estradiol, a female sex hormone belonging to a group of hormones called oestrogens. The estradiol in Gina is identical to the hormone naturally produced by the ovaries.

Gina belongs to the category of local vaginal Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and is used to relieve menopausal symptoms in the vagina, such as dryness, soreness, irritation, itching, burning sensations, and pain during sexual intercourse. These symptoms occur due to vaginal atrophy, which results from decreased oestrogen levels following menopause.

How Does Gina Work?

Gina replaces the oestrogen that the body no longer produces in sufficient amounts after menopause. As the vaginal tablet is inserted directly into the vagina, the hormone is delivered precisely where it is needed, helping to relieve discomfort and restore vaginal health.

Who Can Use Gina?

Gina 10 microgram vaginal tablets are intended for postmenopausal women over the age of 50 who have not had a period for at least one year.

What You Need to Know Before Using Gina

Medical History and Pharmacy Reviews

Before starting Gina, your pharmacist will assess your medical history, symptoms, and overall suitability for the treatment. They may recommend an alternative treatment or a doctor’s consultation if necessary. Regular reviews of your treatment should be conducted with your pharmacist.

If you begin using Gina, inform your doctor during your next routine appointment.

Do Not Use Gina If:

• You are allergic to estradiol or any of the other ingredients in Gina.
• You have or have ever had womb or ovarian cancer.
• You have unexplained vaginal bleeding or any abnormal vaginal symptoms.
• You have been diagnosed with endometrial hyperplasia.
• You have previously been treated with oestrogen-only HRT without a hysterectomy.
• You have vaginal or genital infections or conditions such as severe itching, rashes, or lesions.
• You have or have ever had breast cancer or are suspected of having it.
• You have or have ever had a blood clot in the veins (thrombosis) or arteries (stroke, heart attack).
• You have a blood clotting disorder or liver disease.
• You have porphyria, a rare inherited blood disorder.

Speak to Your Pharmacist Before Using Gina If:

• You have a history of endometriosis or endometrial hyperplasia.
• You are switching from another form of HRT.
• You have high blood pressure, diabetes, gallstones, migraines, or a high level of blood fats (triglycerides).
• You have a history of uterine fibroids or a family history of blood clots.

Warnings and Precautions

Stop using Gina and seek medical attention if you experience:

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding, spotting, or itching.
• A return of endometriosis symptoms.
• Sudden swelling of the face, throat, or difficulty breathing (signs of a severe allergic reaction).
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
• A sudden rise in blood pressure, severe headaches, or migraine-like symptoms.
• Signs of a blood clot, such as swelling in the leg, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.

Gina should not be used in children or adolescents and should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

How to Use Gina

Always use Gina as directed by your pharmacist.

Dosage

• Initial Dose: One vaginal tablet daily for the first two weeks.
• Maintenance Dose: One vaginal tablet twice a week, leaving a gap of 3 to 4 days between doses.

Use Gina at the same time each day for consistency.

What If You Forget a Dose?

If you forget a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

Stopping Treatment

You can stop using Gina at any time, but symptoms may return. Consult your doctor for alternative treatment options.

If You Need Surgery

If you require surgery, inform your doctor that you are using Gina. You may need to stop using it 4 to 6 weeks before the procedure to reduce the risk of blood clots.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Gina may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them.

Stop Using Gina and Seek Medical Help If You Experience:

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling, rash).
• New or unusual vaginal bleeding or infections.

Common Side Effects (May Affect up to 1 in 10 People):

• Headache
• Stomach pain
• Vaginal bleeding, discharge, or discomfort

Uncommon Side Effects (May Affect up to 1 in 100 People):

• Genital fungal infections
• Nausea
• Skin rash
• Weight gain
• Hot flushes
• High blood pressure

Rare or Unknown Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Water retention
• Worsening migraines
• Insomnia
• Vaginal and genital itching or rash
• Hives
• Allergic reactions at the application site
• Minor vaginal injuries from applicator use

Risk Comparison with Systemic HRT

Gina is a local vaginal HRT and is believed to carry a lower risk than systemic HRTs (oral tablets, patches, gels) used for menopausal symptoms. However, the risks cannot be ruled out completely.

Breast Cancer

Current evidence suggests that Gina does not increase the risk of breast cancer in women who have not had the disease before. Women should check their breasts regularly and report any changes to their doctor.

Ovarian Cancer

The use of systemic oestrogen-only HRT has been linked to a slight increase in ovarian cancer risk, but the risk with Gina remains uncertain.

Blood Clots in Veins (Thrombosis)

Systemic HRTs increase the risk of blood clots, especially during the first year of use. While the risk is lower with Gina, you should monitor for signs such as leg swelling or sudden chest pain.

Heart Disease and Stroke

Oestrogen-only systemic HRT does not increase heart disease risk. However, stroke risk may increase slightly with HRT use.

How to Store Gina

• Keep Gina vaginal tablets in their original packaging and store them at room temperature.
• Do not use the product past its expiration date.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Contents of the Pack and Other Information

Each pack of Gina 10 microgram vaginal tablets contains preloaded applicators for easy insertion. Check the packaging for a full list of ingredients.

User Instructions

Refer to the detailed instructions in the packaging for guidance on how to use Gina vaginal tablets correctly. If you experience difficulties with the applicator, consult your pharmacist for advice.

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we are not responsible for any discrepancies or issues that may arise. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.