The price of Osphena 30 tablets can vary depending on the pharmacy and whether a discount card is used. Without insurance or a discount, the retail price for a 30-count prescription of Osphena (75 mg tablets) can range from approximately $500 to over $600 [1].
How Can I Get a Discount on Osphena?
Several options can help reduce the cost of Osphena. Prescription discount cards, often available from online pharmacies or through patient assistance programs, can significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses. For example, a discount card might bring the price down to around $100 to $150 for a 30-day supply [1]. Comparing prices across different pharmacies is also a common strategy for finding lower costs.
What is Osphena Used For?
Osphena is a medication prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain associated with dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse) in postmenopausal women. This pain is often a symptom of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), a condition where the vaginal tissues become thinner, drier, and less elastic due to decreased estrogen levels [2].
How Does Osphena Work?
Osphena is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It works by acting like estrogen on certain tissues, including the vaginal lining, where it helps to thicken and lubricate the tissues, thereby reducing pain during intercourse. However, it can act differently in other tissues, such as the breast and uterus, where it may block estrogen's effects [2].
Are There Alternatives to Osphena for VVA?
Yes, several alternative treatments exist for vulvovaginal atrophy. These include vaginal estrogen therapy (creams, rings, tablets), lubricants, moisturizers, and other prescription medications [3]. The best option depends on individual symptoms, medical history, and doctor's recommendation.
What is the Typical Dosage of Osphena?
The recommended dosage for Osphena is one 60 mg tablet to be taken orally once daily [2].
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Osphena?
Common side effects reported with Osphena include hot flashes, genital discharge, muscle pain, and urinary tract infections. A serious, though rare, potential side effect is an increased risk of blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, and potentially an increased risk of stroke. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their healthcare provider [2].
What is the Brand Name vs. Generic Name for Osphena?
Osphena is the brand name for the drug ospemifene [2]. Currently, there is no generic version of ospemifene available [1].
When Did Osphena Become Available?
Osphena was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013 [4].
Sources:
[1] GoodRx. (n.d.). Osphena Prices, Coupons, and Patient Assistance Programs. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/osphena
[2] Hologic, Inc. (n.d.). Osphena® (ospemifene) Tablets. Retrieved from https://www.osphena.com/
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2023, October 14). Vaginal atrophy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vaginal-atrophy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352293
[4] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2013, February 4). FDA approves Osphena (ospemifene) for postmenopausal women. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-for-patients-and-providers/fda-approves-osphena-ospemifene-postmenopausal-women