Addyi, also known as Flibanserin, was recently approved by the FDA to treat low sexual desire in women. It is the first FDA approved medication for female sexual dysfunction. Addyi is a non-hormonal oral medication, with a seemingly low side effect profile, that in essence increases dopamine and noradrenaline while reducing serotonin in the brain which increases desire in some women.
Addyi has been referred to as the “female viagra” and this is a very misleading description of the drug. This is a once daily medication that needs to be taken before bed. It is not the type of drug you take before sex to improve sexual functioning at that moment. It is important to note that the use of alcohol can increase the risk of fainting therefore drinking alcohol while taking this medication is contraindicated.
Medical providers and pharmacists need to view an online educational tutorial and pass a test before being able to prescribe/dispense Addyi. As usual, the medical providers at Maze are ahead of the curve and have already taken these steps and are awaiting approval to prescribe.
Like any medication, it may not work for every woman. There are different factors that can lead to low desire in women and that is our specialty. We can help you decide if this medication is right for you or if a different treatment plan would be better. We have many tools in our tool belt already to treat low desire in women and we are thrilled to have another one!
