Female Viagra: Types, Mechanism, and Potential Side Effects
In a significant development for women's health, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two drugs for the treatment of Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD): Vyleesi (bremelanotide) and Addyi (flibanserin).
## Vyleesi (Bremelanotide)
Vyleesi, an injection given subcutaneously (under the skin), targets melanocortin receptors and modulates the brain pathways involved in sexual response. The most common side effects include nausea, flushing (redness of the skin), headache, vomiting, and injection site reactions such as pain or itching.
It is recommended to administer Vyleesi at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. The dosage should not exceed one dose within 24 hours or 8 doses per month. Self-injection into the abdomen or thigh using the provided pen device is the method of administration.
Vyleesi may increase blood pressure and heart rate shortly after injection, so it is essential to exercise caution in women with cardiovascular or cerebrovascular conditions.
## Addyi (Flibanserin)
Addyi, a pill taken orally once daily at bedtime, changes the brain's serotonin system and indirectly affects dopamine. The most common side effects include dizziness, sleepiness (somnolence), nausea, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia), and dry mouth.
A boxed warning for Addyi highlights the risk of hypotension (low blood pressure) and syncope (fainting), especially in certain settings or when combined with alcohol or certain medications. It is crucial to avoid alcohol and certain medications due to the increased risk of severe hypotension and syncope.
Addyi is designed for premenopausal people and is available as a pill. The tablet should be swallowed whole and taken consistently every night before going to bed to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting.
## Comparing Vyleesi and Addyi
A summary table comparing Vyleesi and Addyi in terms of side effects, dosage, administration methods, and key precautions is provided below:
| Drug (Generic/Brand) | Side Effects | Dosage | Administration Method | Key Precautions | |----------------------|--------------|--------|----------------------|-----------------| | Addyi (flibanserin) | Dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, insomnia, dry mouth, hypotension, syncope | 100 mg once daily at bedtime | Oral tablet | Avoid alcohol and certain medications; take at bedtime | | Vyleesi (bremelanotide) | Nausea, flushing, headache, vomiting, injection site reactions; may increase blood pressure | 1.75 mg per dose, ≤1 dose/24h, ≤8/month | Subcutaneous injection | Avoid in cardiovascular/cerebrovascular conditions; self-inject ≥45 min before sex |
It is important to consult a healthcare provider to assess suitability and review potential risks and drug interactions for both medications.
## Important Notes
- The effects of Vyleesi can last for up to 24 hours. Viagra is not FDA approved for use in females. - Vyleesi may slow down the body's processing of other medications. - After 3 days of taking Addyi, a steady level of the drug is reached in the body. However, some people may metabolize CYP2C19 inefficiently, causing drug levels to build up. - Taking Addyi with food increases its absorption into the body. - A person injects Vyleesi into their thigh or stomach at least 45 minutes before having sex. - Vyleesi lasts around 2.7 hours, and the average time it takes to clear the body is 6.5 hours. - Vyleesi may cause allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical help if symptoms of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis occur. - The FDA warns against trying over-the-counter products marketed as libido-boosting supplements, as they may contain ingredients in prescription drugs that are not advertised on the supplements' labels. - It can take no more than 8 weeks to see an increase in sexual desire with Addyi, though some people experience the effects much sooner.
- Vyleesi, an under-the-skin injection, targets melanocortin receptors and lasts up to 24 hours, but may slow down the body's processing of other medications.
- Addyi, an oral tablet taken before bedtime, affects the brain's serotonin system and may cause low blood pressure and fainting, particularly when combined with alcohol or certain medications.
- While Viagra is not FDA approved for use in females, Vyleesi may increase blood pressure and heart rate shortly after injection to those with cardiovascular or cerebrovrosular conditions.
- Severe hypotension and syncope can result if Addyi is taken with alcohol or certain medications, so it's essential to follow the instruction carefully.
- Self-injection into the abdomen or thigh using the pen device is the method of administration for Vyleesi, which should be administered at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.
- Some people may metabolize CYP2C19 inefficiently when taking Addyi, causing drug levels to build up, while taking Addyi with food increases its absorption into the body.
- It is recommended to take Addyi consistently every night to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting, with effects taking no more than 8 weeks to see an increase in sexual desire for some people.
- Vyleesi, as well as Addyi, may cause allergic reactions, so immediate medical help should be sought if symptoms of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis occur.
- The FDA warns against using over-the-counter products marketed as libido-boosting supplements, as they may contain ingredients in prescription drugs that are not advertised on the supplements' labels, potentially leading to dangerous interactions and side effects.
