We focused on practical information about Addyi — the drug often called "female Viagra" — and what it really does for women with low sexual desire. The post explains how Addyi works, what the clinical trials found, safety issues, and how it compares to other options like Vyleesi and off‑label use of sildenafil.
Addyi (flibanserin) was approved by the FDA in 2015 for premenopausal women with female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD). Unlike erectile drugs, it affects brain chemicals: it lowers serotonin and raises dopamine and norepinephrine, which can increase sexual desire for some women. It’s a daily pill, not an on‑demand treatment.
Clinical trials showed modest gains: on average, women reported about half to one more satisfying sexual event per month and small increases in desire scores. For some women the change is meaningful; for others it’s barely noticeable. The effect usually appears after several weeks of daily use, so patience and follow‑up matter.
Side effects that came up in the research include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and low blood pressure — the low blood pressure risk rises when Addyi is taken with alcohol. It’s contraindicated with alcohol and with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (which can raise flibanserin levels). It can also interact with some antidepressants and other meds, so your prescriber needs a full medication list.
We also covered Bremelanotide (Vyleesi), an injectable option approved for premenopausal women. Vyleesi is taken as needed before activity and works on melanocortin receptors; common side effects are nausea and flushing. Some women prefer Vyleesi because it’s not daily.
What about Viagra (sildenafil)? A few small studies looked at it in women, usually for physical arousal problems rather than desire. Results are mixed and not strong enough to recommend routine off‑label use. If someone suggests trying sildenafil, talk with a clinician about expected benefits and risks — it’s not a direct substitute for drugs that target desire.
If you’re considering treatment: 1) talk to a healthcare provider who knows sexual medicine, 2) rule out medical causes (hormones, thyroid, meds), 3) consider counseling or couple’s therapy alongside medication, and 4) ask about side effects, alcohol rules, and drug interactions. If you don’t respond to one option, there are other paths to try.
Our March 2024 guide aimed to give clear, usable facts so you can have a better conversation with your clinician and make a plan that fits your needs. If you want, read the full post for study details and real‑world tips on how to track change while on treatment.
Mar, 22 2024
In 2015, the FDA approved Flibanserin (Addyi) for treating female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) in premenopausal women. This guide delves into how Addyi, described as 'female Viagra', works, its benefits, side effects, and the need for more inclusive research. Bremelanotide (Vyleesi), another FSIAD medication, is also discussed alongside the off-label use of Viagra in women.