Prasterone is a vaginal suppository containing the bio-identical hormone prasterone (also referred to as DHEA). This hormone is similar to the body's natural DHEA and is locally converted in the vagina into oestrogens and androgens. Prasterone can help relieve symptoms caused by a deficiency of female hormones after menopause, such as vaginal dryness, irritation, and pain during intercourse. The product works exclusively in the vagina and is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream. Prasterone is a hormone replacement therapy designed for postmenopausal women with moderate to severe vaginal symptoms. This medication is available by prescription only.
Hormone replacement therapy
Prasteron (intrarosa)
Vaginal suppository
In short
- For vaginal dryness
- May help with vaginal itching and discomfort
- Vaginal suppository with bio-identical hormone DHEA (prasterone)
- Prescription medication
What is Prasterone?
What can you expect from Prasterone?
- Prasterone works locally in the vagina to make the vaginal wall more supple and less dry.
- It is a vaginal suppository.
- Symptom improvement can typically be expected after approximately six weeks.
When should I use Prasterone?
- Use one vaginal suppository daily, preferably in the evening before bedtime.
- The suppository should be inserted into the vagina.
The package leaflet contains all the necessary information about this product. Please read the leaflet carefully before using the product.
For which symptoms is Prasterone used?
Prasterone is used to treat vaginal dryness.
Prasterone may also help with:
- Irritation
- Pain during intercourse
- A burning sensation in the vagina
Do not use Prasterone if you:
- Are allergic to prasterone or any of the other ingredients
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Are using it in combination with other vaginal products
Inform your prescribing doctor if you are taking any other medications.
Possible side effects of Prasterone
Common (in 1 to 10 out of 100 users):
Vaginal discharge
Vaginal itching
Burning sensation in the vagina
Uncommon (in 1 to 10 out of 1,000 users):
Vaginal bleeding
Pain during insertion
Rare (in fewer than 1 out of 1,000 users):
Vaginal infection
Urinary tract infection
In rare cases, these side effects may lead to severe symptoms, such as heavy vaginal bleeding or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., facial swelling, breathing difficulties). Always contact a doctor immediately in such cases.
For a complete list of possible side effects, consult the package leaflet.
Oral and transdermal hormone replacement therapy may carry certain risks, such as an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly with long-term use or for women who start treatment later in menopause. For vaginal suppositories, there is no evidence of these risks, as this medication works locally and does not enter the bloodstream.
Risks of hormone therapy
The use of medication containing hormones can carry risks; however, this does not apply to vaginal hormone therapy. Vaginal administration of hormone therapy is entirely safe and risk-free as the hormones are minimally absorbed into the bloodstream. Studies indicate no increased risk of thrombosis, strokes, or cancer.
Scientific sources
2016 IMS Recommendations on women's midlife health and menopause hormone therapy - PubMed
Management of unscheduled bleeding on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) - British Menopause Society
Rethinking Menopausal Hormone Therapy: For Whom, What, When, and How Long? - PubMed
Hormone Therapy in Menopause: Concepts, Controversies, and Approach to Treatment - PubMed
Updates in Hormone Replacement Therapy for Survivors of Gynecologic Cancers - PMC
Oestrogen-based therapies for menopausal symptoms - PubMed
The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society - PubMed
Hormone Therapy in Menopause - PubMed
Hormoonsuppletietherapie en het risico op veneuze trombo-embolie | Stichting Geneesmiddelenbulletin
Patient Information Leaflet
Read the patient information leaflet carefully before using Prasteron (intrarosa).
Prasteron (intrarosa) helps with
Frequently asked questions
Will my treatment be covered?
This depends on your health insurance provider. We recommend you check with your own insurance company. Supplements are not usually covered.
What is a consultation and how does it work?
During the consultation, you will complete a comprehensive medical questionnaire. You can also state your preferred type of treatment. Based on your answers, a doctor will prepare a treatment plan for you within 48 hours. If you approve this plan, a pharmacy will dispatch the products to your home within 3 days.
How long will it take to receive my order?
Our partner pharmacies will dispatch your order within 3 days. You can then typically start your treatment straight away.
Are there delivery charges?
For prescription medicines, delivery is included in the price. For over-the-counter products, there is a delivery charge of £4.21. We offer free delivery on orders over £40. If your order includes both, delivery is free.
Can I change, cancel or return my order?
Unfortunately, once an order has been placed, it cannot be changed. If you have ordered the wrong product, or wish to change or cancel your order, please contact our customer service team immediately. Over-the-counter products can only be cancelled if they have not yet been prepared or dispatched by the pharmacy. Prescription medicines can be cancelled if they have not yet been assessed by a doctor. Returns are only accepted for over-the-counter products in their original unopened and undamaged packaging, within 14 days of dispatch.