Addyi (flibanserin) is a medication used to help increase sexual desire in women under age 65 who have been diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
Because it may increase sexual desire, Addyi is sometimes called “female Viagra,” although it works differently than sildenafil.
Addyi should be taken only under the supervision of a gynecologist, after assessing overall health and identifying the underlying cause of low libido.
Indications for use
Addyi is indicated for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women under age 65, including premenopausal women and postmenopausal women under age 65, characterized by reduced or absent sexual desire (low libido) for at least 6 months
This medication should only be used if a gynecologist determines that the decreased sexual desire is not due to a psychiatric condition, relationship problems, side effects of a medication or drugs.
How it works
Addyi works by regulating levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are linked to sexual desire.
It acts on serotonin receptors, reducing serotonin levels. This can increase dopamine and norepinephrine, which may help increase female sexual desire.
Dosing instructions
Addyi is taken by mouth with a glass of water, preferably at night, before going to bed.
The dose usually recommended for HSDD is 1 tablet per day.
After 8 weeks of treatment with Addyi, if there is no improvement in sexual desire, consult a gynecologist again.
Is Addyi the same as Viagra?
Although Addyi is popularly known as “female Viagra,” it has a very different mechanism of action.
Addyi acts on serotonin and dopamine receptors, which are neurotransmitters related to sexual interest and desire.
Sildenafil (Viagra) works by improving blood flow in the penis and is indicated only for men.
Side effects
The most common side effects of Addyi are dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, fatigue, insomnia, and dry mouth.
Less commonly, Addyi may also cause, abdominal pain, constipation, appendicitis, anxiety, and sedation.
Taking Addyi with CYP3A4 inhibitors can significantly raise Addyi levels and increase the risk of severe low blood pressure or fainting. For this reason, Addyi is contraindicated with moderate to strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as ketoconazole, fluconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, nelfinavir, clarithromycin, erythromycin, valerian, grapefruit, and nefazodone.
Contraindications for use
Addyi should not be used by children, adolescents, men, women age 65 or older, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Addyi should also not be used by people with liver problems or who are allergic to any component of the formula.
Alcoholic beverages should not be consumed during treatment with this medication.
This medication is also not recommended for treating lack of sexual desire caused by a mental health condition, relationship problems, or side effects of another medication. Read more about how to increase libido in women.