Mixed emotions on the FDA’s approval this week of the drug Flibanserin, aka “pink Viagra,” to boost women’s sexual desire.
Some feel this is the biggest breakthrough for women’s sexual health since the birth control pill.
Others have their doubts. Doubters say to have any chance of benefit from this drug they’re going to have to take it every day for months on end or years… to change the brain chemistry.
The drug, which will be sold under the brand name Addyi, is expected to be available in October 2015, according to its maker, Sprout Pharmaceuticals. And along with the potential to ignite a low (or non-existent) libido among some women, the drug comes with a boxed warning, the strongest kind, on contraindications and potential side effects, including low blood pressure, fainting, nausea, dizziness and sleepiness.
Many women struggle. They want to feel normal and healthy in their sexual functioning, and they deserve safe, effective treatments. Fortunately, an expanding body of research has shown that sex therapy, couples therapy, mindfulness, and sex education can improve sexual satisfaction. They work more effectively, for more women, with less health risk, than any drug.
By approving Addyi, it seems, the FDA is ensuring this will become a reality for more women.
What are your thoughts on this controversial new medication?