Ospemifene
Ospemifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to treat moderate to severe dyspareunia (painful intercourse) in postmenopausal women experiencing vulvar and vaginal atrophy. It acts as an estrogen agonist in some tissues and antagonist in others, providing therapeutic benefits while minimizing estrogen-related risks in other organs.
Ospemifene is a tissue-selective estrogen receptor modulator used by postmenopausal women to relieve painful intercourse caused by vaginal atrophy.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- G03XC05
- RxNorm
- 1370971
- Generic
- Ospemifene
- Class
- atc-g03
- Brands
- Osphena
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats dyspareunia (painful intercourse) and vaginal dryness in postmenopausal women with vulvovaginal atrophy. May also be used for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes.
Binds to estrogen receptors throughout the body with tissue-selective activity—acting as an estrogen agonist in vaginal tissue to improve thickness and lubrication, while blocking estrogen effects in breast and uterine tissue.
Should be taken with food at the same time each day. Common side effects include hot flashes, muscle spasms, and vaginal discharge. Women with undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, known or suspected breast cancer, or history of blood clots should not use this medication. May increase risk of endometrial hyperplasia in women with intact uteruses.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy