Concept of "Female Viagra"

The term "female Viagra" is often used to refer to medications intended to treat low sexual desire or arousal in women. However, it is important to note that there is no officially approved female version of Viagra. Nevertheless, there are two prescription drugs that have received approval from the FDA to tackle this issue in females: flibanserin, commonly known as Addyi, and bremelanotide, also known as Vyleesi.

FDA-Approved Drugs for Low Desire or Arousal in Females: Flibanserin (Addyi) and Bremelanotide (Vyleesi)

The two drugs flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi) have been specifically developed and approved for treating low sexual desire in women. It's important to recognize that these drugs function differently from Viagra, which is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction in men.

Usage and Effect of Addyi

Flibanserin, or Addyi, needs to be taken daily before bedtime. It isn't a medication that provides instant results; instead, it can take up to eight weeks to notice effects. It should be noted that women who take Addyi for at least eight weeks experience an 80% increase in sexual desire and 58% more satisfaction during sexual activity. Like all medications, it can come with side effects, including dizziness, nausea, and tiredness.

Usage and Effect of Vyleesi

On the other hand, bremelanotide (Vyleesi) is a self-administered shot that women can take in their belly or thigh 45 minutes before they plan to have sex. Unlike Addyi, Vyleesi doesn't need to be taken daily, and it is only recommended to take one shot in a 24-hour period.

Comparison of "Female Viagra" to Viagra for Men

While there are differences in how these drugs are administered and how they work, there are also similarities with the male equivalent. Similar to Viagra for men, the so-called "female Viagra" also begins to work around 30-60 minutes after being administered in oral form. However, its action generally lasts up to 2 hours.

Factors Affecting the Working Time of Female Viagra: Food, Alcohol, and Sexual Stimulation

The length of time these drugs take to work can be influenced by various factors, including food and alcohol intake. However, details about how these factors impact the effectiveness of female Viagra remain unclear and might require further research.

Misconceptions and Clarifications About the Use of Viagra in Women

Viagra is a drug intended for use in men to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis.

It's not suitable for use in women for this purpose.

However, when used in women, Viagra is thought to raise blood flow to the genitals, thereby increasing sensitivity and stimulation.Studies have shown that it may provide a benefit for women having difficulty with sexual arousal.

Gap in Understanding: Time Frame for Female Viagra to Work

The time it takes for "female Viagra" to work varies from woman to woman and depends on the specific drug in question. For instance, Addyi needs to be taken daily and can take up to eight weeks to have any noticeable effect, while Vyleesi is taken as needed and starts working around 45 minutes after administration.

Current Limitations and Future Research Directions

The field of female sexual health is complex and still widely under-researched. While current medications provide some benefits, they don't work for all women and can come with side effects. As understanding of the biology and psychology of female sexual response grows, hopefully, more effective treatments will become available.