Educational guide
'Viagra' for females: Types, how they work, and side effects
In the United States, two drugs have been approved to treat female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD): Vyleesi (bremelanotide) and Addyi (flibanserin). Some people may refer to these as “Viagra for females.” The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have ap
This guide cannot diagnose a condition or recommend a personal treatment plan. Discuss medical questions with a qualified professional.
In the United States, two drugs have been approved to treat female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD): Vyleesi (bremelanotide) and Addyi (flibanserin). Some people may refer to these as “Viagra for females.”
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved two drugs — flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi) — to address low desire or arousal in females. However, both are approved for use only in people who have not yet entered menopause.
This article describes the FDA-approved medications for low libido in females, including how they work and the possible side effects. It also explores alternative approaches.
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.
The FDA has approved two drugs to address FSIAD: Vyleesi (bremelanotide) and Addyi (flibanserin).
Addyi (filbanserin)
Addyi was the first drug approved to treat FSIAD. Addyi is designed for premenopausal people, and is available as a pill.
A person takes this drug daily before bed, even if they do not intend to have sex that day.
It can take no more than 8 weeks to see an increase in sexual desire, though some people experience the effects much sooner.
Vyleesi (bremelanotide)
The FDA states that Vyleesi medication can treat FSIAD in premenopausal females.
A person injects it into their thigh or stomach at least 45 minutes before having sex. The effects can last for up to 24 hours. People should not use the drug more than eight times per month.
Comparison table
The table below compares Vyleesi and Addyi:
Viagra is not FDA approved for use in females. To understand why, it can help to understand what Viagra was designed to do in the male body.
Usually, after sexual stimulation in a male, there is a release of nitric oxide, which increases levels of a regulatory agent in cells called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This increase in cGMP causes smooth muscle relaxation, and it leads to increased blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection.
In males, an erection goes down when an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) breaks down.
Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra,
In some cases, a medical professional
Anyone who would like to try Viagra should ask a medical professional, who may prescribe the drug off-label.
Vyleesi targets melanocortin receptors, which are linked to sexual function. The drug modulates the brain pathways involved in sexual response.
The
Addyi lasts for around
After 3 days of taking the medication, there is a steady level of the drug in the body. However, some people do not metabolize CYP2C19, an enzyme protein, effectively, and this can cause levels of the drug to build up, resulting in side effects.
Vyleesi lasts around 2.7 hours, and the average time it takes to clear the body is 6.5 hours. The drug may slow how fast the body can process other medication.
Vyleesi and Addyi treat FSIAD in premenopausal people. No research has tested the drug in people during or after menopause.
The medications may be beneficial for premenopausal people who:
- take medications that affect sexual desire
- experience sexual boredom
- suddenly feel less interested in sex
Factors that are lined with a reduced sex drive in females include:
- vaginal dryness
- difficulty reaching an orgasm
- pain during sexual intercourse
- stress, anxiety, and depression
- certain health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease
The FDA-approved drugs for FSIAD can have the following side effects.
Addyi
The side effects of Addyi can include:
- drowsiness
- dry mouth
- nausea
- dizziness
- fatigue
- insomnia
The following people should avoid Addyi:
- those with liver conditions
- those taking oral contraceptives
- those taking CYP3A4 inhibitors
- those who are nursing
- those who have consumed alcohol in the last 2 hours
The drug can cause severe low blood pressure and fainting in people who take it with alcohol or who have liver conditions.
Vyleesi
Vyleesi’s side effects can include:
- nausea and vomiting
- flushing and hot flashes
- irritation or a rash at the injection site
- headache
- flu-like symptoms
- fatigue
- dizziness
- darkening of the skin, resulting in dark spots called hyperpigmentation on the gums, face and breasts
- high blood pressure
- a decreased heart rate
- tingling
Vyleesi may reduce the efficiency of oral medications due to slower emptying of the gastric system.
It can also make drugs containing naltrexone to treat alcohol and opioid addiction less effective, so anyone taking a drug that contains naltrexone should avoid Vyleesi.
Like other drugs, Vyleesi and Addyi can cause allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical help if symptoms of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis occur.
The
A person should speak with a doctor before taking any supplements to boost libido. The doctor can advise on the suitabilty of the products, and they may recommend medications such as Addyi and Vyleesi.
Vyleesi (bremelanotide) and Addyi (flibanserin) can help treat female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) in premenopausal people.
The FDA has not approved Viagra for use in females. The FDA also advises against taking over-the-counter supplements that are marketed to boost libido.
Medication may not treat all causes of low sexual desire. A person can contact a doctor for advice on suitable medications and other ways to help improve their libido.