boric acid (vaginal)

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Pronunciation: BOR ik AS id

Brand: Hylafem

What is the most important information I should know about vaginal boric acid?

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is vaginal boric acid?

Boric acid has mild antiseptic and antifungal actions. Vaginal boric acid is a homeopathic prescription medicine that also contains probiotics or "friendly bacteria" (Lactobacilliales), as well as the antioxidants Vitamin C and E.

This product works by replenishing normal vaginal acidity and balancing vaginal flora (helpful bacteria).

Vaginal boric acid is a homeopathic prescription medicine used to treat vaginal yeast infections and relieve symptoms such as burning, itching, and odor.

Vaginal boric acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using vaginal boric acid?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

  • pain or tenderness in your pelvis or lower stomach;
  • fever, chills, nausea;
  • vaginal bleeding;
  • pelvic inflammatory disease;
  • an active sexually transmitted disease;
  • high blood pressure;
  • heart disease;
  • a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine);
  • blood vessel disorder; or
  • if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Vaginal boric acid will not prevent pregnancy and should not be used as a form of birth control.

It is not known whether vaginal boric acid passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

Vaginal boric acid is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.

How should I use vaginal boric acid?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take a vaginal suppository by mouth. Vaginal boric acid is for use only in the vagina.

Do not use this medicine if you have open sores, wounds, or ulcerations in your vaginal area.

The usual dosage of vaginal boric acid is 1 suppository inserted into the vagina once per day, for 3 to 6 days in a row. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions.

Wash your hands before and after inserting a vaginal suppository.

Avoid handling the suppository too long or it will melt in your hands.

Vaginal boric acid suppositories are packaged with single-use disposable applicators.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets about how to insert the vaginal suppository.

Use this medicine only with the applicator provided.

Do not reuse a disposable applicator.

You can use a sanitary napkin to prevent the medicine from staining your clothing, but do not use a tampon.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Store at cool room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct light. The vaginal suppositories will melt if they get too warm.

Keep each vaginal suppository inside the foil pouch until you are ready to insert one.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of vaginal boric acid is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using vaginal boric acid?

Avoid having sexual intercourse while you are treating a vaginal infection. Vaginal boric acid will not prevent an infection from spreading to your partner.

This medicine will not treat or prevent sexually transmitted disease.

What are the possible side effects of vaginal boric acid?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • new or worsening symptoms (itch, vaginal discharge, etc);
  • vaginal burning sensation;
  • high fever; or
  • symptoms that go away and come back.

Common side effects may include:

  • watery vaginal discharge;
  • redness, mild burning; or
  • a gritty sensation in the vagina.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect vaginal boric acid?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

  • estrogen (birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy); or
  • a magnesium supplement.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with vaginal boric acid, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about vaginal boric acid.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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