When we think of sexual wellness pills, “Viagra” is often synonymous with male erectile dysfunction. But what about the female equivalent? This post unpacks the science, controversies, and potential of the drug commonly referred to as “female Viagra.”
The medication flibanserin, approved by the FDA in 2015, works differently from male Viagra. Instead of increasing blood flow, it acts on neurotransmitters in the brain to boost desire in premenopausal women experiencing hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
Flibanserin’s journey to approval faced skepticism and debate over its efficacy, side effects, and the societal implications of medicating female sexual desire. Critics argued that desire is complex and not always pharmaceutically treatable.
The drug is prescribed for women with a clinically diagnosed lack of sexual desire that causes distress. It’s not a universal solution but a tool for specific medical scenarios.
While it offers hope for some, side effects may include dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. It also requires daily dosing, unlike as-needed male Viagra.
The future of female sexual wellness is growing in developing more targeted therapies. But holistic approaches, including therapy and lifestyle adjustments, remain central.
Female sexual wellness is multifaceted. While “female Viagra” has opened doors, it’s one piece of a much larger puzzle involving physical, emotional, and relational health.
