Ospemifene is a tablet-based medication (brand name Osphena) used to treat painful intercourse (dyspareunia) due to vulvar and vaginal atrophy from menopause. It’s a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM).
Key points:
- Dose: 60 mg taken by mouth once daily. Can be taken with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
- Indication: Moderate to severe dyspareunia due to vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women.
- Brand/form: Osphena, 60 mg tablet.
Who should not use it (contraindications):
- Pregnant or nursing.
- Known or suspected estrogen-dependent cancer (e.g., certain breast cancers).
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding.
- Active or history of venous thromboembolism (DVT/PE).
- Hypersensitivity to ospemifene or any component.
Important warnings:
- Endometrial effects: risk of endometrial hyperplasia and possible uterine cancer; may cause vaginal bleeding. Regular monitoring as advised by your clinician is important.
- Thromboembolic risk: may increase risk of blood clots.
- Other hormonal effects: may cause hot flashes, headache, nausea, vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding.
- Interactions: can interact with other estrogens or SERMs and with strong inducers or inhibitors of liver enzymes. Tell your clinician about all medicines you take (including herbal supplements).
Common side effects:
- Hot flashes, vaginal discharge or bleeding, cramps, breast tenderness, headaches, nausea.
Serious concerns (seek care promptly):
- Unusual vaginal bleeding, signs of a blood clot (leg swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath), severe allergic reaction.
How to discuss with your clinician:
- If you have history of breast or uterine cancer, clotting disorders, liver disease, or are using other hormonal therapies.
- If you don’t notice improvement after several weeks, or if side effects are troublesome.
If you’d like, tell me your context (e.g., you’re considering it, already prescribed, what country you’re in), and I can tailor the info (dosage details, monitoring plan, or alternatives like vaginal estrogen therapy).