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Overview: Intrarosa is used to reduce pain during sex caused by vaginal changes that can happen after menopause. It is inserted into the vagina using an applicator that comes with the medicine. Intrarosa may work by acting like a natural steroid called dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Common side effects include vaginal discharge and abnormal Pap smear results.

Uses

What is Intrarosa used for?

Intrarosa (prasterone) is commonly used to treat pain during sex caused by changes in the vagina that often happen with menopause. 

Intrarosa may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does Intrarosa work (mechanism of action)?

When hormone levels drop during menopause, the tissue in and around the vagina can become thin and dry, which may lead to pain during sex. Intrarosa is similar to a natural steroid called dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It is thought that your body changes Intrarosa into active hormones, including androgens and estrogens. This may help restore the health of vaginal tissues and reduce pain during sex. 

How is Intrarosa supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Intrarosa

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 6.5 mg vaginal insert

How should I store Intrarosa?

Intrarosa should be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, at a temperature between 41 F and 86 F (5 C and 30 C). Keep it in a cool, dry place.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Intrarosa?

The most common side effects of Intrarosa are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of Intrarosa that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Intrarosa?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Intrarosa are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Intrarosa may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using Intrarosa and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Intrarosa?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use Intrarosa.

  • Intrarosa
  • Prasterone
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Intrarosa.

Unusual Vaginal Bleeding. Intrarosa should not be used if you have abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been diagnosed by a health care provider.

What should I know about Intrarosa before using it?

Do not use Intrarosa unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Use it as prescribed and keep all scheduled appointments while using Intrarosa.

Do not share Intrarosa with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep Intrarosa out of the reach of children.

Intrarosa is inserted into the vagina using an applicator that comes with the medicine. Read and follow the instructions that come with the product. If you have questions about how to use it properly, ask your health care provider.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Intrarosa?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if Intrarosa is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Breast Cancer. Tell your health care provider if you have breast cancer, had it in the past, or may have had it in the past. Intrarosa is similar to a hormone that turns into estrogen in your body, which can make breast cancer worse in some cases.

Pregnancy. People who can become pregnant are not usually prescribed Intrarosa. It is not known if or how Intrarosa could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. People who can breastfeed are not usually prescribed Intrarosa. It is not known if Intrarosa passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

How can I get more information about Intrarosa?

For more information about Intrarosa, you can visit the drugmaker’s website at www.intrarosa.com or call them at 877-810-2101.

Interactions

Does Intrarosa interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between Intrarosa and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Intrarosa.

Does Intrarosa interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between Intrarosa and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Intrarosa?

If you or someone else has used too much Intrarosa, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Intrarosa?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.