How to Use Vaginal

Tablets, Suppositories,
and Creams
1 3
It is best to use For vaginal cream
these products products: Attach
just before the applicator to the
your bedtime. opening of the tube
Lying down will of cream and twist until
reduce leakage of firmly attached. Squeeze the
the medication from your cream from the tube into the applicator
vagina that could possibly occur while until it reaches the level indicated for your
standing or walking around. dose. Twist and remove the applicator
from the tube.

2 4
For tablets or
Wash your vaginal
suppositories: Remove
area with a mild
the medication from the
soap and water
wrapper and place it into
and dry thoroughly.
the end of the applicator.
If the product comes
as a pre-filled applicator,
skip to step 5.
5
Gently insert the
applicator into your
vagina while you
position your body in
one of the following two
ways. Insert the applicator
only as far as it will comfortably go. You
can stand with your feet apart and your
knees bent.

Copyright 2021, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modified,
or distributed without the express prior written permission of the copyright holder. For permission, contact safemedication@ashp.org.
How to Use Vaginal
Tablets, Suppositories,
and Creams (continued)

6 9
Or lie on your back Wash your hands
with your knees thoroughly with
bent and legs soap and warm
slightly apart. water.

7
Push the plunger 10
of the applicator Continue to use the medication for as
until it stops. long as directed by your doctor or on
Remove the the product labeling. Use the product
applicator from without skipping any days, even during
the vagina. your menstrual period. You should use
sanitary pads if you have your period
while using this medication. Do not
8 use tampons as they can absorb some
If the applicator is of the medication and make your
reusable, clean treatment less effective.
it as directed by
the manufacturer.
This usually
involves pulling Remember
the two pieces apart • Follow directions carefully
and washing them with a mild soap • Do not miss doses
and water. Discard the applicator if it is • Store suppositories in a cool place and
disposable. avoid melting; refrigerate them if so labeled
• Store medications out of reach of children

Copyright 2021, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modified,
or distributed without the express prior written permission of the copyright holder. For permission, contact safemedication@ashp.org.