Is There a Female Viagra?

Though often called "female Viagra," Addyi (flibanserin) and Vyleesi (bremelanotide) are designed to enhance sexual desire in females, but they do not affect physical performance.

Viagra (sildenafil) is not approved for use in females. Viagra and similar drugs treat erectile dysfunction (ED). They boost sexual performance in males by improving blood flow to the penis but do not affect libido.

This article discusses "female Viagra" medications, potential benefits and risks, and common causes for low libido.

Female Versions of Viagra

These medications are approved to treat female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD), also known as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), in premenopausal women.

This is more than just a temporary lack of interest in sex. It's a minimum of six months during which there's a decrease or absence of sexual interest or arousal that causes significant distress and is not explained by another condition or stressor.

Neither medication is approved for use in men and neither has any effect on physical sexual performance.

Addyi

Addyi is a serotonin 5-HT-receptor agonist. It affects serotonin and other natural substances in the brain, but the exact mechanism of action is unknown.

It's an oral medication you take once a day at bedtime, whether or not you plan to have sex. It can take several weeks to start working. You should stop taking it if there's no improvement after eight weeks.

Vyleesi

Vyleesi is a melanocortin receptor agonist. It activates certain natural substances in the brain that affect mood and thinking, but the exact mechanism of action isn't clear.

Using a prefilled syringe, you inject it just under the skin in the abdomen or thigh as needed, at least 45 minutes before sexual activity. It's unclear how long any effect may last, but the label recommends no more than one injection in 24 hours and no more than eight injections per month.

Can Women Take Viagra?

Some providers may prescribe Viagra off-label (for uses not intended or approved but that may be beneficial) for women. One study suggested that Viagra may improve clitoral and uterine blood flow in healthy postmenopausal women.

A small, older (from 2008) randomized trial explored the use of Viagra in women with sexual dysfunction associated with taking antidepressants. Results suggested that Viagra may reduce adverse sexual effects in this population. Other research stated that there's "inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence" for its benefits.

Research into the potential risks and benefits of Viagra for women is limited.

Safety of “Female Viagra”

The most common side effects of Addyi are:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth

Some people may experience low blood pressure and fainting. People with liver disease should not take Addyi. Addyi has had its share of controversy. Due to concerns about safety and efficacy, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withheld approval twice before finally giving it the go-ahead.

The most common side effects of Vyleesi are:

• Nausea
• Flushing
• Injection site reactions
• Headache
• Vomiting

Some people may experience a temporary increase in blood pressure and a reduction in heart rate or focal hyperpigmentation (areas of darkened skin). People with uncontrolled high blood pressure should not take Vyleesi.

You also should not take these medications if you are:

• Pregnant
• Breastfeeding
• Postmenopausal
• Male

Is “Female Viagra” Available Over the Counter?

Viagra, Addyi, and Vyleesi require a prescription from a healthcare provider and should come from a reliable source.

Illegitimate online pharmacies may not comply with laws or health and safety regulations. Being able to order without a prescription is a big red flag. Check with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before trying products that claim to boost libido.

Also, be aware of the bold claims of sexual enhancement products sold by retailers, distributors, or online. The FDA cautions that some of these products may contain hidden ingredients that harm your health.

Talking to a Provider About “Female Viagra”

Addyi and Vyleesi are approved to treat FSIAD/HSDD, so you'll want to ensure the diagnosis. You must be open with your healthcare provider about your sex drive and how it affects your quality of life. Your provider will want to rule out health conditions, medications, and other problems contributing to low libido.

Even with a diagnosis, there's still a lot to consider. The two drugs have different routes of administration. You will need to consider if you want to take a pill daily, or if you are comfortable injecting yourself before sexual activity. Here are some questions you might want to ask:

• Which drug do you recommend and why?
• What are the potential side effects and risks?
• Will it interact with any of my other medications or dietary supplements?
• What if I'm thinking about getting pregnant?
• What are my other options?

Treating Underlying Causes of Low Libido

Female sexual function involves complex physiological, psychological, and social interactions. Underlying causes of low sexual desire include:

• Stress
• Relationship problems
• Age and menopausal status
• Medical conditions
• Medications
• Depression, anxiety

Treatment depends on the specific cause. Finding ways to manage stress and treating chronic medical conditions may help improve sexual desire.

Summary

There's no female version of Viagra (a drug that treats ED). Viagra doesn't affect libido and isn't approved for use in women. Addyi and Vyleesi, often called "female Viagra," are approved to treat low libido in women, but they don't affect sexual performance.

If your libido has been lower than usual for six months or more and is causing distress, it may be time to see a healthcare professional. With a diagnosis of FSIAD/HSDD, these "female Viagra" drugs may be an option. Your provider can explain the benefits and risks based on your situation and personal preferences.