Effect of Ospemifene on Densitometric and Plasma Bone Metabolism Biomarkers in Postmenopausal Women Reporting Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy (VVA)

Abstract

Menopausal hormone deficiency can exert multiple effects on various organs. Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) is among the most widespread and disabling post-menopausal disorder. Hormonal changes can also result in a markedly increased rate of bone mineral density (BMD) loss. Ospemifene (OSP) is an SERM indicated to treat vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA) in postmenopausal women. This study evaluates the long-term effects of ospemifene therapy on bone metabolism and bone mineral parameters in postmenopausal women reporting VVA/GSM. Methods: Women reporting VVA symptoms were included. Bone health profile was investigated in 61 subjects treated with OSP (OSPG) (60 mg/day) and compared with a control group (CG) (n = 67) over 12 months. Results: In the CG, BMD and T-score statistically decreased at the femoral neck (FN), total femur (TF), and lumbar spine (L1–L4). In the OSPG, BMD decreased significantly at FN but tended to remain stable at TF and L1–L4. No changes were observed in bone mineral markers after one year in either group, except BAP, which decreased in OSPG. Conclusions: Long-term OSP treatment improves bone mineral markers at TF and LS and slows bone loss at FN compared to the control group. Overall, OSP exerts a protective effect on bone loss in healthy menopausal women with VVA.

Keywords

• bone metabolism
• postmenopausal women
• ospemifene