How Helpful Is Viagra In Women?

Viagra (sildenafil) has FDA approval for treating sexual dysfunction in men. But did you know Viagra is being recommended to women too? Sometimes, doctors prescribe it off-label to women, meaning without FDA approval.

While effective for male erectile dysfunction, Viagra focuses on sexual performance rather than arousal. Some evidence suggests it may help women with sexual dysfunction, but research in that quarter has been limited, and the results inconsistent.

How will it work?

So if Viagra relaxes the penis’s smooth muscle, allowing blood flow and causing an erection in men. How does it work for women?

In women, Viagra might increase blood flow to the clitoris and vaginal labia, potentially enhancing lubrication and sensation.

This, it is believed, could aid some women, particularly postmenopausal women experiencing vaginal dryness, in sexual arousal and orgasm.

Again, only a few studies on Viagra’s use in women with sexual dysfunction exist, and their results have been inconclusive.

What about pregnant or breastfeeding women?

The FDA has not studied Viagra’s safety for women during pregnancy or breastfeeding, either. It is known that Viagra passes into breast milk, but its effects on breastfed babies remain unclear.

It’s worth noting that sildenafil, Viagra’s active ingredient, is also found in Revatio, a medication used to treat pulmonary hypertension in both men and women at a significantly lower dose.

What is FSIAD?

Female sexual interest and arousal disorder (FSIAD) is the most prevalent sexual disorder among women. Viagra hasn’t shown effectiveness for FSIAD, as it is more complex than male erectile dysfunction.

A woman may be diagnosed with FSIAD if she experiences a decrease or loss of sexual interest, desire, arousal, response, or pleasure for at least six months, which isn’t due to relationship issues, medications, substance abuse, stress, or another medical condition.

FSIAD is considered valid if the sexual dysfunction causes significant distress to the woman. Around 20% to 30% of women have low sexual desire, but only about half experience considerable distress.

FSIAD commonly affects women in relationships who wish to be more sexually active and responsive. A lack of interest in sex is not unusual, particularly in women uninterested in relationships or older women with diminished sexual desire.

What is Addyi?

Addyi (flibanserin) is an FDA-approved drug for treating premenopausal women with low sexual desire. Initially developed as an antidepressant, its precise mechanism is unknown.

Studies reveal that Addyi results in a small but significant increase in monthly satisfying sexual events compared to a placebo (around 1 to 2 more events).

However, Addyi has considerable side effects and requires daily intake. These side effects include:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Dry mouth
• Nausea

To avoid daytime side effects, Addyi is taken at bedtime. If no improvement in sexual desire is observed after eight weeks, the FDA recommends stopping Addyi.

In 2019, the FDA issued a boxed warning, the highest level of warning, that women taking Addyi must avoid alcohol. Combining Addyi with alcohol can cause a severe drop in blood pressure, potentially resulting in syncope (fainting).

So what conclusions can we draw?

We have a long way to go to know if Viagra can help women or not. It seems that the effectiveness of Viagra in women is still inconclusive and requires more research.

While there may be some potential benefits for specific cases, such as postmenopausal women with vaginal dryness, women must consult their healthcare providers before considering taking Viagra.

Additionally, there are alternative treatments available, such as Addyi, specifically designed for women with low sexual desire. The decision to take Viagra or any other medication should always be based on individual circumstances, medical history, and the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.