Female Viagra: Types and Alternatives

When it comes to enhancing female sexual arousal and satisfaction, medications commonly known as female Viagra like Addyi (Flibanserin) and Vyleesi (Bremelanotide) are widely prescribed.  They target brain chemicals associated with sexual desire rather than increasing blood flow like male Viagra. While some women may find Viagra effective, it is not FDA-approved for female use.

In this blog, we will explore the types and alternatives of female Viagra while discussing the potential side effects of it as well. 

Female Sexual Disorder: An Overview

Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder or FSIAD is characterized by decreased interest in sexual activity. Previously known as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), it was reclassified in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) to encompass a broader spectrum of female sexual dysfunction. This change acknowledges the complex interplay of psychological and physiological factors contributing to the disorder. They include:

• Inability to orgasm

• Lack of sexual desire

• Pain during intercourse

It is prevalent among older women, especially after menopause. However, anyone can face this. According to a study, 40% of women are affected by it worldwide and most of them do not seek any treatment. 

Women suffering from FSIAD often face distress due to the lack of sexual fantasies or activity. It is also accompanied by interpersonal relationship problems. The most common symptoms of FSIAD are:

• Lack of libido

• No pleasure or orgasm during sex

• No thoughts of having sex

• No sexual fantasies

• Avoiding sex 

• Vaginal dryness

• Pain during sex

• Trouble getting aroused

If you are facing these symptoms as a result of any underlying medical conditions or drugs, then it is not a cause for concern. However, check with your doctor for proper diagnosis. Avoid self-diagnosing and self-prescribing medicines. 

Types of Female Viagra

'Female Viagra' is often used to refer to describe drugs for female sexual disorders. Since Viagra was the first medicine to treat men's sexual disorder ED, it is used synonymously with treatments for sexual disorders in both genders. However, it is important to note that male and female sexual dysfunctions differ significantly.

Viagra is used to treat Erectile Dysfunction, a condition related to blood flow rather than sexual desire. With women, the case is different and often involves issues with desire and arousal. To address this, the FDA has approved two medications to treat female sexual desire disorder: Flibanserin and Bremelanotide. 

1. Flibanserin (Brand Name: Addyi)

Addyi is the first FDA-approved medication to treat Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD). Manufactured by Sprout Pharmaceuticals, it was approved by the FDA in August 2015. It is a groundbreaking development as previously no medication was available to treat HSDD or FSIAD. 

• Components of Addyi: Flibanserin

• Strength:  100mg

• Drug Class: Serotonin receptor 1A agonist/serotonin receptor 2A antagonist

• Generic Name: Flibanserin 

• Available in: Oral tablets

• When to Take: At bedtime 

• How to Take: Swallow the tablet as a whole with water. Do not chew or crush it.

• How to Store: In a cool and dry place

2. Bremelanotide (Brand Name: Vyleesi)

Vyleesi is the first as-needed treatment for HSDD. Manufactured by Cosette Pharmaceuticals, it was approved by the FDA in June 2019, four years after Addyi. The drug is available as an injection that women self-administer 45 minutes before sexual activity. 

• Components of Vyleesi: Bremelanotide 

• Strength: 1.75mg

• Drug Class: Melanocortin Receptor Antagonist

• Generic Name: Bremelanotide 

• Available in: Injection 

• When to Take: 45 minutes before sexual activity

• How to Take: It comes in an auto-injector which you 'click' on your skin and use the medicine.

• How to Store: Store the drug at 25 degrees Celsius and away from direct sunlight. Keep away from the reach of children. 

Comparing the Effectiveness of Female Viagra

The debate regarding female Viagra has been ongoing in the medical community. While many companies market various products under the term female Viagra, only two FDA-approved medications, Addyi and Vyleesi, treat female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD). Here is a comparative analysis of the two medicines:

Choosing the best medicine for HSDD depends on your medical history and lifestyle. Always follow your doctor’s prescription and refrain from buying medicines claiming to be female Viagra. 

Side Effects of Female Viagra

Both Vyleesi and Addyi are associated with certain side effects and drug interactions. Being aware of them will help your decision. 

1. Side Effects of Addyi

The most common side effects of Addyi are:

• Dry mouth

• Nausea

• Trouble falling asleep

• Dizziness

• Insomnia 

• Trouble staying asleep

• Drowsiness 

Moreover, it can cause some serious side effects:

• Central Nervous System Depression

• Hypotension or Fainting 

• Decreased alertness or coordination 

Seek immediate medical attention if you face these symptoms. Moreover, if you do not see any results in 8 weeks, stop using the medicine. 

2. Side Effects of Vyleesi

Some of the common side effects of Vyleesi are:

• Nausea 

• Vomiting 

• Flushing 

• Headache 

• Dizziness

• Darkening of certain areas of skin 

• Irritation or redness at the site of injection

• Tingling 

• Nasal congestion 

Serious side effects of Vyleesi (Bremelanotide) are:

• Temporary Heart Rate Decrease and Increase in Blood Pressure: It can happen after you inject the medicine and usually goes away after 12 hours. Moreover, it can also happen if you take the medicine more than the prescribed dose. Consult a doctor if the symptoms increase or worsen. 

• Focal Hyperpigmentation: This can occur in the gums, breasts, or face. Consult a doctor if you are concerned about skin pigmentation. 

Can Women Use Viagra? 

Viagra usage is not FDA-approved in females as it is primarily used to treat Erectile Dysfunction. However, in some cases, women who take Viagra may experience increased blood flow to the vulva, which could potentially help with vaginal lubrication and reduce dryness.

However, numerous clinical trials have shown that Viagra does not address any sexual dysfunction issues in females. Some common side effects of Viagra in women are: 

• Headache 

• Nausea

• Hot flush

• Irregular heartbeat

• Dizziness

• Fainting 

Therefore, can women take Viagra? Not exactly! As it does not treat any female sexual dysfunction and is accompanied by unknown side effects. 

Alternative Treatments and Supplements

Other than 'female Viagra' such as Addyi and Vyleesi, there are other treatments available for HSDD. These include a combination of medications, emotional support, and cognitive therapy to address both physical and psychological factors. Let us explore them below:

• Estrogen: Vaginal creams containing estrogen can help deal with vaginal dryness, reduce pain during intercourse, and improve urinary symptoms.

• Testosterone: The FDA does not approve the use of testosterone in women citing safety and effectiveness. Often prescribed off-label, the hormone helps in healthy sexual function in men as well as women.

• Quit Smoking: Smoking cigarettes decreases blood flow, which may hamper your sexual life. It can also affect your mood and sexual arousal. 

• Cognitive Behavior Therapy: This form of therapy helps reshape thoughts and emotions related to sexual desire. It can improve arousal, reduce distress associated with HSDD, and enhance overall sexual well-being.

Bottom Line: Do They Work? 

Yes, female Viagra or Flibanserin and Bremelonatide are clinically proven to increase sexual desire in women. However, these are prescription medications and should only be used with caution under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Discuss your medical history as well as any underlying condition with your doctor before consuming these medicines. 

Conclusion 

Female sexual desire disorder is a complex disorder and requires a multi-faceted approach to treatment. While pharmaceutical options provide a structured solution, addressing psychological, emotional, and lifestyle factors is equally important. Consulting a healthcare professional is necessary to determine an effective treatment plan. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a female equivalent to Viagra?

Yes, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two medicines for use in treating female sexual desire disorder. They are Addyi and Vyleesi. However, they are not direct alternatives. 

2. Is it possible to consume Viagra as a female? 

Viagra usage in females is not approved by the FDA. Therefore, use precaution before consuming any Viagra. 

3. Does Addyi work?

Yes, Addyi, containing Flibanserin, is clinically proven to increase sexual desire in women. 

4. Is female Viagra pill over the counter?

No, any medicines that treat sexual disorders are not available over the counter. It requires a doctor’s prescription to purchase. 

5. Which female Viagra is the best?

Addyi (Flibanserin) and Vyleesi (Bremelanotide) are the best alternative options for female Viagra. Viagra usage is not recommended by the FDA in females. It is strictly for treating Erectile Dysfunction in men. 

6. Is female Viagra FDA-approved?

Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD), also known as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), can be treated with Addyi and Vyleesi. While they are not the female equivalent of Viagra, these FDA-approved medications help enhance libido and address low sexual desire in women.

7. Where to buy a female Viagra?

You can buy female Viagra via offline pharmacies or order them online from a trusted platform such as Indogenmed. 

8. What if my doctor does not prescribe female Viagra?

It is important to take medications only after consulting with your doctor. Medications for Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD) can come with potential side effects, some of which may be serious.

9. Difference between male and female Viagra?

Male Viagra contains Sildenafil Citrate and treats Erectile Dysfunction. It belongs to the PDE-5 inhibitor drug class. Whereas, female Viagra or Addyi contains Flibanserin. It belongs to the MSAA class of drugs and treats hypoactive sexual desire disorder or HSDD. 

Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. It does not intend to replace a doctor’s prescription. 

Reference:

https://www.webmd.com/women/features/guide-to-female-viagra

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/expert-answers/viagra-for-women/faq-20057960

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4232035/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/female-sexual-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20372549