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[nigela]

Hi anyone know if there is a form of vagifem(oestrogen) that is without lactose. Unfortunately I cannot tolerate this and it gave me bad stomachs again.
Thanks

[CLKD]

Nigella - you need to discuss this with a Pharmacist. 

I found this:

"What are the possible side effects of Vagifem®?
Vagifem® is only used in the vagina; however, the risks associated with oral estrogens should be taken into account. The most commonly reported side effects of Vagifem® include: headache, breast pain, irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting, stomach/abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, fluid retention, and vaginal yeast infection. ...... "

I couldn't find out if lactose is involved.

[cubagirl]

Ingredients include ", lactose monohydrate."

Every sympathy nigela, it's a nightmare trying to find lactose free meds. I had to take meds recently containing lactose, as no alternative. However, I used H&B lactase capsules beforehand & they did the trick. Would that help you?

[CLKD]

  cubagirl - every day's a learning curve  at a time when we would like things to run smoothly!

[cubagirl]

Probably because I go through ingredients on everything with a fine tooth comb CLKD. I'm not just intolerant to lactose, but everything dairy! It's a right pain!

[CLKD]

...... and tiring >sigh<

[Hurdity]

Hi nigela

Lactose intolerance is a digestive issue involving the gut and the enzyme lactase - it is not a generalised systemic allergy - so unless you are planning to eat the Vagifem, the fact that it contains lactose will make not one jot of difference to you.

Therefore on this basis do go ahead and use it - if you need it to prevent VA.

Hurdity x

[Tempest]

I use lactase enzyme too if I have to have anything with lactose in it. Works like a charm, as Cubagirl says. xxxxx

[Tempest]

It's lactose, Hurdity that we have a problem with. Lactase counterbalances this. And yes - it can irritate ANY mucous membranes in those intolerant.  Some people experience mouth irritation and swelling, or eye irritation on contact for example. I had this confirmed by my Consultant Gastroenterologist who diagnosed me. xxxxx

[Hurdity]

Sorry I don't get this? You are talking about an allergy - if membranes etc become irritated. This can happen with a dairy allergy ie people who are allergic to milk proteins, but lactose intolerance is caused by  deficiency in lactase.

What causes lactose intolerance?
The body digests lactose using a substance called lactase. This breaks down lactose into two sugars called glucose and galactose, which can be easily absorbed into the bloodstream.
People with lactose intolerance don't produce enough lactase, so lactose stays in the digestive system where it's fermented by bacteria. This leads to the production of various gases, which cause the symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.
Depending on the underlying reason why the body isn't producing enough lactase, lactose intolerance may be temporary or permanent. Most cases that develop in adults are inherited and tend to be lifelong, but cases in young children are often caused by an infection in the digestive system and may only last for a few weeks.

A dairy (milk protein) allergy is different and does involve the immune system so there is a generalised allergic reaction . If you have any specific information then I would be interested to read it please  - as I can't find any information on allergic reaction to lactose.

Hurdity x

[cubagirl]

I have to use lactose free inhalers for asthma, not because they upset my stomach, but as they are an asthma irritant & have me coughing myself silly. 

I myself can no longer tolerate any form of dairy as I end up stuck in the loo. I suspect my days, as a child, drinking nothing but milk may have contributed to my problem. Lactase capsules help slightly with medication as only minute amounts are added to "pad" out the meds. On the whole I try to avoid completely.

After reading these answers Nigela, have you spoken with your pharmacist/doctor with regards to this problem? It can't be nice for you.   

[Tempest]

It MAY just be my uniqueness again Hurdity, but I'm happy to ask my Gastro. for verification.

I was informed that in some individuals, an inflammatory response due to intolerance can cause release of large amounts of histamine from mast cells, and thus cause swelling similar to a true allergic response without a 'true allergy' being present. I also spent 2 years under an Anaphylaxis Specialist who confirmed that cross over from intolerances and true allergy are still being researched.You will remember that I have severe life threatening allergies also.

I would urge Nigela to check with her GP as to her own personal circumstances to be on the safe side. xxxxx

[nigela]

hi this is true. My GP is looking to see if there are any without the lactose as it DID cause my strange stomach pains to re appear for whatever reason and I have not had these since giving up dairy products!
Thanks again
Nigela

[CLKD]

Do let us know what your GP finds?

[cubagirl]

Glad your GP took you seriously. Many doctors & pharmacists think small amounts of lactose can't possibly make any difference. When you're highly intolerant, you notice these things. Can I get my GP to make a note on files to this effect? Nope! So every time I need meds I have to remind them. However, there are many meds which don't come lactose free. Hope you're lucky nigela!