Low libido is not just a big deal for men, in fact, many women report concerns related to low sexual desire. A multitude of things can contribute to low sexual desire, even some forms of birth control have been noted as causing long term drops in sexual arousal. Enjoying a healthy sex life requires full enjoyment and participation from both parties, so there are many cases in which female viagra can improve sexual health.
Female viagra is the term most commonly used to describe the version of “the little blue pill” for women, viagra itself is not actually Food and Drug Administration approved for use by women as sexual medicine. Other medications that are commonly recommended for erectile dysfunction, such as tadalafil and vardenafil, are also not FDA approved for sexual dysfunction in women.
Addyi
There is only one medication that is currently approved for this use and it is flibanserin, which is also known by the name brand Addyi. This medication was originally created as an antidepressant, but it is now prescribed by healthcare providers as a treatment for low sexual desire in premenopausal women.
How Female Viagra Works
This daily pill is intended to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) by affecting serotonin neurotransmitters and dopamine in the brain so libido can rise again. Once this medication takes effect an increase in desire for and engagement in sexual activity is commonly noticed. Clinical trials using a parallelled placebo group have found that Addyi does increase sexual activity and sexual interest in most women.
Some common side effects include;
These side effects can become more apparent when more than two alcoholic drinks are consumed or when drug interactions occur. For this reason, it is best to discuss taking Addyi with gynecologists or other healthcare providers before starting the medication.
Vyleesi
For women who are not compatible with Addyi or do not want to take the female version of the “little blue pill” there is an injectable treatment for HSDD. This treatment is known by the generic name bremelanotide and the name brand of Vyleesi.
This medication is injected into the stomach or thigh about 45 minutes prior to sexual activity and is only recommended for use a maximum of 8 times a month. This medication works by activating melanocortin receptors in the brain associated with the regulation of mood and thinking. Though an injectable sexual medicine may sound intense, it is actually Food and Drug Administration approved and thoroughly tested through clinical trials.
Since this medication works in a different method in comparison to Addyi it also has different side effects, such as;
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High blood pressure (often temporary)
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Darkening of the skin in certain areas
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Nausea
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Allergic reactions at the site of injection
There is always the opportunity for underlying health conditions and drug interactions to add to the list of side effects so a gynecologist's opinion is required before starting Vylessi.
It should be noted that there are currently no FDA - approved treatments for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in postmenopausal women. After menopause complications like vaginal dryness and low libido can not be safely treated by either female version of viagra discussed, so it is best to seek medical advice for a personalized solution.
Having a healthy sex drive is beneficial to individuals and their partners, so there is no shame in talking with a medical professional about female viagra, only pleasure.
Citations:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/expert-answers/viagra-for-women/faq-20057960
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-trials-snapshots-addyi
https://addyi.com/what-to-expect/
https://www.vyleesi.com/