Earlier this year, we asked women whether they thought there was a need for prescription nonhormonal treatments for menopausal symptoms. Overwhelmingly (89%), women said “yes!” We took that message to the FDA. The good news is that now there are two new approved treatment options for menopausal symptoms. Ospemiphene (Osphena) received FDA approval in February for painful sex that can be a consequence of the changes in and around the vagina that can come with low estrogen levels. Then in June, the FDA approved low-dose paroxetine (Brisdelle) for moderate to severe hot flashes. Ospemiphene acts like an estrogen in some tissues, but not others. The major advantage is its estrogen-like activity in the vagina and surrounding tissues, which keeps them supple and moist. It acts on the uterus as well, so you and your healthcare provider need to be alert to any unusual vaginal bleeding. Paroxetine is a name you might have heard before because in higher doses, it’s sold as the antidepressant Paxil. It doesn’t take much to reduce hot flashes, so the dose is lower than that used for antidepressant activity. It carries the same warnings as the antidepressant formula, so be sure to discuss all treatment options with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you.

This is a milestone year. For decades, hormone therapy has been the only medication approved for menopausal symptoms. Now there are choices. We hope this encourages others to conduct research in the field of menopause.