FDA OKs drug for painful sex caused by menopause

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WASHINGTON (AP) — The Food and Drug Administration says it approved a new drug for women who experience pain during sex because of menopause.

The daily pill is called Osphena and it is designed to treat symptoms of menopause that make vaginal tissue thinner and more fragile, causing pain during sexual intercourse.

Osphena acts like the female hormone estrogen and makes vaginal tissue thicker and less fragile.

Common side effects of the drug include hot flashes, vaginal discharge, muscle spasms and excessive sweating.

Osphena is made by Japanese pharmaceutical company Shionogi, which has U.S. operations in Florham Park, N.J.