A new SERM relieves vaginal atrophy

Lasofoxifene is the first selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) to help vaginal atrophy, says a multicenter trial presented at the 15th Annual Meeting of the North American Menopause Society (NAMS). Investigators found the drug reduced dryness with few side effects.

Nearly 400 postmenopausal women aged 46 to 82, all of whom had some degree of vaginal discomfort, were enrolled in the placebo-controlled, double-blind study at 31 sites. Three daily doses of lasofoxifene were tested: 0.025 mg, 0.25 mg, and 0.5 mg. Vaginal atrophy was assessed via questionnaire at baseline and treatment weeks 8, 12, and 24.

By 12 weeks, all three dosages significantly improved vaginal dryness/soreness compared to placebo (63%, 65%, and 62%, respectively, vs. 35%; P<0.001). A similar but less dramatic difference was seen for burning/itching (38%, 43%, and 36%, respectively, vs. 22%; P≤0.074). The drug also reduced symptoms associated with sexual intercourse.

Bachmann G, Gawss M, Moffett A, et al. Lasofoxifene improves patients' symptoms associated with vaginal atrophy. P-63. Presented at the 15th Annual Meeting of the North American Menopause Society in Washington, D.C.