For a long time, men have been the primary focus when it comes to sexual dysfunction.

However, recent studies show that women too experience sexual dysfunction that affects their libido, and this has led to the development of libido drugs specifically designed for women. We take a closer look at women’s libido drug on the rise.

The Prevalence of Female Sexual Dysfunction

Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is a common disorder affecting women of all ages, with prevalence rates ranging from one in four to over half of all women. It is estimated that 43% of women experience FSD at least once in their lives.

FSD is a general term that refers to the various sexual problems that women may experience, including low desire for sex, difficulty in achieving orgasm, and pain during intercourse.

The Causes of Female Sexual Dysfunction

The causes of FSD vary and can be attributed to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Biological factors include hormonal imbalances, menopause, and certain medical conditions.

Psychological factors may include anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Social factors may include cultural attitudes towards sex, stress at work and home, and negative sexual experiences.

The Emergence of Libido Drugs for Women

While men have had access to Viagra, Cialis, and other erectile dysfunction drugs, until recently, there has been no FDA-approved drug that boosts women’s libido.

The FDA has approved two medications for female sexual dysfunction: Addyi and Vyleesi.

Addyi

Addyi, also known as Flibanserin, is a daily oral medication taken once a day, before bedtime. It is designed to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women, a condition that causes low sexual desire.

It works by restoring the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate sex drive. Addyi was approved by the FDA in 2015, but it is not without controversy.

The Controversy Surrounding Addyi

Addyi has been criticized for its potential side effects, including dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and low blood pressure. Some people questioned the effectiveness of Addyi, with some trials showing only modest benefits.

In addition, the drug’s manufacturer, Sprout Pharmaceuticals, has been accused of aggressively marketing Addyi to women, even though its effectiveness has not been rigorously tested.

Vyleesi

Vyleesi, also known as Bremelanotide, is an injection therapy used to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. It works by activating melanocortin receptors, which stimulates sexual desire. Unlike Addyi, Vyleesi is used on-demand.

It is self-administered as an injection under the skin of the abdomen or thigh at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Vyleesi was approved by the FDA in 2019.

The Benefits and Risks of Vyleesi

Vyleesi has been shown to be effective in clinical trials, with women reporting significant improvements in sexual desire and satisfaction. However, like Addyi, Vyleesi is not without risks. The most common side effects are nausea, flushing, and headache.

In addition, Vyleesi is not recommended for women with uncontrolled high blood pressure or a history of cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion

The development of libido drugs for women is a significant milestone, providing women with a viable treatment option for FSD. However, it is important to remember that these drugs are not a silver bullet and may not be effective for everyone.

Additionally, there are potential side effects and risks to consider. Women who are considering taking libido drugs should discuss the benefits and risks with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision.