Viagra was introduced over 15 years ago, and today, there are over 24 FDA-approved options for male sexual dysfunction to help gentlemen with their “performance.” But, we ladies are still waiting for a medical solution to our libido issues – studies in JAMA show around 43% of US women between 18 and 59 have some sexual dysfunction. What’s up with that? Yes – there are non-pill, topical ointments to helps us like Zestra. But, we should have a pow-pow option that a pharmeceutical pill offers just like the men do. And we shouldn’t have to wait until we hit menopause to get it!
Well, we may be closer to getting our needs met. Or at least having more options. (And, ladies, it’s all about the options, right?) After pressure from women’s advocacy groups and other efforts, on February 11, 2015 the FDA gave Sprout Pharmaceuticals the okay to resubmit a New Drug Application (NDA) for flibanserin, a once-daily treatment for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.
Flibanserin would be first-in-class, first-in-disease treatment of female sexual dysfunction acting on the neurotransmitters in the brain.
But, not all women think flibanserin is a good thing. Some feminists over at Slate.com believe that a lot of women’s sexual issues are due to boredom and not wanting to have sex with a particular man. They don’t think it’s a physical problem. Also, the drug was twice rejected by the FDA out of concern that the risks outweighed the benefits and the drug could interact badly with other medicines a lady was taking.
But, there are studies supporting the drug’s effectiveness such as the June 2014 article in Menopause showing 38% of the women who got the drug saw improvements in their sex lives. And, while 30% did experience side effects like headaches and nausea only 8% found it so bad that they wanted to stop treatment. (You know that’s right…)
With so many options for men and none for women, it seems like flibanserin should be made available for the women and couples who find it helpful. Ladies, let me hear your thoughts!
Keep it sexy!
Keep it healthy!
SuzyKnew!
The simple fact that this is being researched for women is a milestone. Research on female sexual disorders are always on the back burner. Both sexes deserve attention. Please write follow up articles because I would love to hear the results.
Noted! SuzyKnew! will keep following the “Female Vigara” issue and our readers up-to-date. Just keep letting us know what you want to hear.