For Women Expericing HSDD, a Pink Pill Could Provide Relief
Flibanserin: A Treatment Option for Low Sexual Desire in Women
Therapeutic choices for women experiencing persistent low sexual desire are expanding with the introduction of flibanserin (Addyi®), a medication designed to address hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). HSDD, the most common female sexual disorder, is characterized by reduced or absent sexual desire that causes personal distress.
Cleveland Clinic women's health expert, Dr. Holly L. Thacker, explains that unlike drugs that purely target sexual performance, flibanserin cultivates sexual desire by regulating brain neurotransmitters, primarily serotonin and dopamine, known for their influence over libido.
In clinical trials, flibanserin proved beneficial for women with HSDD, as they reported an average of 0.5 to 1.0 additional satisfying sexual events per month while taking the medication, as opposed to women in the placebo group. Notably, participants had experienced two to three "satisfying sexual events" per month before joining the study.
Though flibanserin is not intended for recreational use, it offers an additional, helpful option for women dealing with sexual dysfunction. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before considering any medication to manage such issues.
Another option for HSDD treatment is bremalanotide (Vyleesi®), a self-injected therapy with similar effects but administration process. Consultation with a doctor is necessary to determine if this method is suitable.
Potential side effects of flibanserin include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and sleepiness, but severe low blood pressure and loss of consciousness can occur when the drug is combined with alcohol or certain medications that interfere with its metabolism.
In light of these concerns, adult women and their doctors must weigh the benefits of the therapy against potential risks before making an informed decision about its suitability. It is essential to note that the treatment should only be administered by qualified healthcare professionals to minimize adverse effects.
Overall, flibanserin provides a nonhormonal pharmaceutical option for premenopausal women suffering from distressing low sexual desire, improving libido by acting on brain neurotransmitters. However, careful medical oversight is crucial due to potential side effects, especially those associated with alcohol use.
Engaging in health discussions, we acknowledge the role of science in expanding treatment options for women's health-and-wellness issues, such as low sexual desire. For instance, flibanserin, designed to address HSDD, not only improves mental-health by alleviating personal distress but also enhances sexual-health by boosting libido through the regulation of brain neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
