Sex Tablet for Women: Flibanserin, Uses and Side Effects

As women, our sexual health and satisfaction are important to us, but sometimes things don’t always go as planned in the bedroom. It’s natural to experience periods where our libido is low or when we just aren’t enjoying sex as much as we used to.

Flibanserin, commonly marketed under the brand name Addyi, is a medication specifically designed to address a condition known as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Flibanserin, a sex tablet for women, its uses, precautions, and potential side effects.

Understanding Sexual Dysfunction in Women

Before we dive into the benefits of sex tablets for women, it’s important to understand female sexual dysfunction.

• Simply put, it’s a term used to describe any problem that hampers a woman’s ability to enjoy sex.
• One of the major symptoms of female sexual dysfunction is low libido, which can be caused by hormonal imbalances, psychological concerns such as stress or anxiety, or physical factors such as aging, menopause or illness.
• Other symptoms of female sexual dysfunction include difficulty achieving orgasm, pain during intercourse, and lack of sexual satisfaction.
• These symptoms can have a significant impact on a woman’s quality of life and can lead to relationship problems and decreased self-esteem.

What is Flibanserin?

• Flibanserin is a medication used to treat Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (low desire for sex) in premenopausal women.
• It’s a viagra-like drug for cis-gender women and others assigned female at birth.
• HSDD is characterized by a persistent and distressing lack of desire for sexual activity, which is not attributable to other medical or psychological factors.
• Flibanserin is specifically designed to help increase sexual desire in women who have previously experienced a healthy libido but are now troubled by its absence.
• It is taken orally and is typically prescribed under the brand name Addyi.
• This FDA-approved drug should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and is not intended for use by men or postmenopausal women.

Uses of Flibanserin:

• Treatment for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD): Flibanserin is primarily prescribed to premenopausal women who experience Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), a condition characterized by a persistent and distressing lack of sexual desire. It’s specifically for those who have previously had a healthy libido but are now troubled by its absence.
• Not for Underlying Medical or Psychological Causes: It’s important to note that Flibanserin is not intended to treat low sexual desire caused by medical or mental/mood disorders. It’s also not a solution for relationship problems or the side effects of other medications.
• Not for Postmenopausal Women or Men: Flibanserin is not suitable for women who have gone through menopause. It is exclusively designed for premenopausal women. Additionally, it should not be used by men, as it’s specifically formulated for women.
• Not for Enhancing Sexual Performance: Unlike some medications designed to improve sexual performance, Flibanserin is not intended for this purpose. Its primary goal is to address the issue of low sexual desire in eligible women.

Flibanserin should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional who can assess whether it is an appropriate treatment option for the individual’s specific situation.

Potential Side Effects of Flibanserin:

• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching or hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, seek medical attention promptly.
• Extreme Drowsiness: Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you encounter severe drowsiness that impairs your daily activities.
• Low Blood Pressure: Notify your doctor if you notice symptoms like dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, falls, or an unusual weakness or tiredness, as these could be indicative of low blood pressure.

• Dry Mouth: While generally not a cause for concern, if dry mouth continues or becomes bothersome, consult your healthcare professional.
• Nausea: If nausea persists or becomes troublesome, it’s advisable to inform your doctor or healthcare provider.
• Tiredness: While feeling tired is a common side effect, particularly during the initial period of using Flibanserin, if it becomes a persistent issue, consult your healthcare professional.
• Trouble Sleeping: If you experience difficulty sleeping while using Flibanserin, discuss this with your doctor or healthcare provider.

Please note that this list may not encompass all potential side effects, and it’s essential to report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance.

Drug Interactions to Look Out for:

Avoid Taking Flibanserin with the Following Medications:

• Berotralstat: Do not use Flibanserin in combination with berotralstat.
• Certain Antivirals for HIV or Hepatitis: Avoid concurrent use with specific antiviral medications used to treat HIV or hepatitis.
• Certain Medicines for Fungal Infections: Flibanserin should not be taken with certain antifungal drugs like fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, or posaconazole.
• Ciprofloxacin: Refrain from using Flibanserin if you are taking ciprofloxacin.
• Clarithromycin: Do not combine Flibanserin with clarithromycin.
• Conivaptan: Avoid conivaptan while using Flibanserin.
• Diltiazem: Concurrent use of Flibanserin with diltiazem should be avoided.
• Erythromycin: Do not use Flibanserin in combination with erythromycin.
• Grapefruit Juice: It’s crucial to abstain from consuming grapefruit juice while taking Flibanserin.
• Nefazodone: Refrain from taking nefazodone concurrently with Flibanserin.
• Telithromycin: Avoid using telithromycin while on Flibanserin.
• Verapamil: Do not take verapamil along with Flibanserin.

Flibanserin May Also Interact with the Following Medications:

• Alcohol: Be cautious when consuming alcohol while using Flibanserin.
• Birth Control Pills: Discuss the use of birth control pills with your healthcare provider if you are taking Flibanserin.
• Bupropion: If you are using bupropion, consult your healthcare provider regarding its interaction with Flibanserin.
• Certain Medicines for Anxiety or Sleep: Some medications used for anxiety or sleep may interact with Flibanserin. It’s advisable to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, that you are taking to ensure safe and effective use of Flibanserin.

Before starting Flibanserin treatment, it’s essential to communicate with your healthcare provider if you have any of the following conditions or situations:

• Dehydration: Inform your healthcare provider if you are experiencing dehydration or have a history of it.
• Alcohol Consumption: If you consume alcohol, be sure to disclose this to your healthcare provider.
• Drug Abuse or Addiction: If you have a history of drug abuse or addiction, it’s crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• Heart Disease: If you have a chronic condition of the heart or a history of heart disease, let your healthcare provider know.
• History of Depression or Mental Health Problems: Provide information about any previous experiences with depression or other mental health issues.
• History of Drug or Alcohol Abuse: If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, communicate this with your healthcare provider.
• Liver Disease: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any liver-related conditions.
• Low Blood Pressure: If you have a history of low blood pressure, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know.
• Allergic Reactions: Report any unusual or allergic reactions you’ve had to flibanserin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• Pregnancy or Trying to Get Pregnant: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• Breast-Feeding: If you are currently breastfeeding, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider.

Dosage Instructions:

When taking Flibanserin, it’s crucial to follow these dosage instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use:

• Oral Administration: Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water.
• Prescription Label: Always take Flibanserin as directed on the prescription label. Do not deviate from your healthcare provider’s instructions.
• Bedtime Use: Flibanserin should only be taken at bedtime. It is not meant for daytime use.
• Avoid Grapefruit Juice: Do not take this medicine with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can interact with the medication and affect its effectiveness.
• Alcohol Consumption: If you consume alcohol, it’s essential to be mindful of the following:

1. If you have 1 or 2 alcohol-containing drinks, wait at least 2 hours before taking Flibanserin at bedtime.
2. Do not take your bedtime dose if you have consumed 3 or more alcohol-containing drinks.
3. After taking this medicine at bedtime, refrain from consuming alcohol until the next day.

• Use in Children: Flibanserin is not approved for use in children. If you have questions or concerns about its use in specific cases, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
• Overdosage: In the event that you believe you have taken too much of this medicine, contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical attention at an emergency room.

 Summary

• Flibanserin, marketed as Addyi, is a medication designed to address Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women, characterized by a persistent lack of sexual desire.
• It’s not intended for use in men or postmenopausal women, nor is it meant to enhance sexual performance.
• Flibanserin is taken orally and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Potential side effects include allergic reactions, extreme drowsiness, low blood pressure, dry mouth, nausea, tiredness, and trouble sleeping.
• It’s essential to avoid specific drug interactions, including certain antivirals, antifungal medications, and grapefruit juice, and to inform your healthcare provider of relevant conditions or medications you are taking. Follow prescribed dosing instructions carefully, and do not consume alcohol close to bedtime if you’ve taken Flibanserin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Flibanserin available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?

A: Flibanserin is a prescription medication. You will need a healthcare provider’s prescription to obtain it.

Q: Can men use Flibanserin to enhance their sexual desire or performance?

A: No, Flibanserin is specifically formulated for premenopausal women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). It is not intended for use by men.

Q: How long does it typically take for Flibanserin to start working, and how long does its effect last?

A: The time it takes for Flibanserin to start working can vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice an improvement in sexual desire within a few weeks, while others may take longer. The duration of its effect can also differ among individuals. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance regarding usage.

Q: Are there any dietary restrictions or specific foods to avoid when using Flibanserin?

A: Grapefruit juice is known to interact with Flibanserin and may affect its effectiveness. Therefore, it’s important to abstain from consuming grapefruit juice while using this medication.