How Are Doctors Treating Low Libido in Women?

As both men and women get older, a decrease in sex drive is a common issue in both genders. For men, the use of drugs such as Viagra, testosterone supplements is common. But, women using medication to treat their declining libido is not commonly heard. Woman Going Through Menopause

Women are more prone to hormonal imbalance as they go through menstrual cycles, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause. Each of these can significantly alter the hormones in a woman, reducing her libido.

However, for women seeking help to improve their sex drive, researchers have found a range of highly effective drugs, which have been listed below.

Addyi (Flibanserin)

Addyi comes in the form of tablets. It is a prescription medicine developed to treat Hypoactive (low) Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in women. There is a criterion for acquiring a prescription of Addyi. Only women of childbearing age, without prior history of a similar disorder, and complaint of poor libido in all sexual situations can be prescribed this medication. Additionally, this drug is not for women whose low sexual desire is attributed to other mental or medical health issues. Daily intake has been found to significantly improve libido in women.

Vyleesi (Bremalanotide)

Vyleesi (bremelanotide injection) is a melanocortin receptor agonist. It has been approved by FDA in the treatment of premenopausal women with acquired generalized hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). HHSD is characterized by decreased sexual desire resulting in significant mental distress or personal problems. It is not indicated for women whose poor libido is due to a co-existing medical or psychiatric condition, relationship issues, or the side effects of other medications.

Vaginal DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a vaginal treatment that has been successfully studied in postmenopausal women with low sexual drive. It is thought to act locally to improve symptoms such as decreased sensitivity, without affecting systemic physiology. DHEA is naturally synthesized by the adrenal gland but declines with aging.

Testosterone

Testosterone for treating low sexual drive is not recommended by the FDA as no study has reported significant improvement. Additionally, it can result in many side effects such as Acne, male-pattern facial hair, mood swings, and hair loss.

However, these medications are not recommended in women whose cause of decreased sex drive is attributed to psychological issues including body image issues, past undesirable sexual experiences, relationship or trust concerns. For women in these cases, seeking help from a psychiatrist or a mental health expert may be more effective.

Reference

What help is available for low sex drive in women?



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