Female version of Viagra: Flibanserin (Addyi)

The female version of Viagra is called Flibanserin, which is also known as Addyi. Originally developed as an antidepressant, Flibanserin is a treatment for low sexual desire in premenopausal women who find the experience distressing.

FDA approval and history: 2015

Flibanserin (Addyi) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015 for the treatment of female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) in premenopausal women. The FDA has also approved another drug called bremelanotide to treat female sexual dysfunction.

Treatment target: Female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) in premenopausal women

Both Flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide are designed to treat low sexual desire in premenopausal women, specifically targeting female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD). There are many reasons for low sex drive in women, and discussing the potential benefits and side effects of these medications with a doctor is crucial.

Flibanserin's mechanism of action: Altering brain chemistry and neurotransmitters

Flibanserin (Addyi) is a non-hormonal, multifunctional serotonin agonist antagonist (MSAA) that works by correcting an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. It increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which are responsible for sexual excitement, while decreasing serotonin levels that can lower sex drive.

Usage and administration: Daily tablet with expected results after three weeks

Addyi is taken as a daily pill.

In randomized placebo-control clinical trials, 46-60% of women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) reported a clear benefit from Flibanserin after three weeks of taking the medication.

Comparison to another FDA-approved medication: Bremelanotide (Vyleesi)

Bremelanotide is another FDA-approved drug for treating low sexual desire in premenopausal women. Like Flibanserin, it aims to address female sexual dysfunction but has a different method of administration and mechanism of action.

Differences in administration and mechanism: Injectable drug

Unlike Flibanserin, which is taken as a daily pill, bremelanotide is an injectable drug that should be injected into the stomach or thigh at least 45 minutes before sexual activity. It works by activating melanocortin receptors in the brain, which can increase sexual desire and arousal.

The off-label use of Viagra (sildenafil) in women

Though Viagra (sildenafil) itself has not been approved by the FDA for women, it has been prescribed off-label for women with low sex drive. However, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking Viagra or any other medication for sexual dysfunction.

FDA's stance on Viagra for women and off-label drug use

Currently, there is no "female Viagra" approved by the FDA. The two drugs mentioned earlier, Flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide, are specifically approved to treat sexual dysfunction in certain women. It is crucial to discuss the potential benefits and side effects of these medications with a healthcare professional before using them.