For years, Viagra, widely known as the little blue pill, has been used in men to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED). In fact, it has demonstrated excellent results in improving erectile function. Increasingly, users and researchers alike are exploring whether Viagra works for women, considering women also experience low libido or Female Sexual Arousal Dysfunction (FSAD).
Although the blue pill is not FDA-approved for use in women, its active ingredient, Sildenafil, has shown some effectiveness in managing sexual issues in women. For this reason, it is included in medicines like Lovegra, which are produced to manage FSAD, and are usually marketed as female Viagra.
In this article, we will discuss in detail whether Viagra for women can be effective, along with its safety. You will also learn about available off-label Sildenafil products for women, as well as approved alternatives to it.
Does Viagra actually work for women?
Viagra has not been shown to work effectively or consistently for women. It was the first FDA-approved medication for ED treatment in men. This blue pill contains Sildenafil, an active ingredient, and enables strong erections by increasing blood flow in the penis. Since women’s sexual issues are more complex and not primarily dependent on genital blood flow, this medication is not preferred to address sexual issues in women.
However, research has shown mixed results regarding Viagra’s efficacy. Some studies confirmed a few benefits of its active salt, Sildenafil Citrate, in females, including improved lubrication, increased genital sensation, and promoting orgasms. These benefits are particularly studied and observed in:
- Women having antidepressant-induced FSAD.
- Postmenopausal women dealing with reduced genital blood circulation.
- Women who aren’t on nitrates and have no cardiovascular issues.
In contrast, many clinical trials didn’t show any potential improvement in Female Sexual Dysfunction after Viagra intake. This indicates that while doctors don’t recommend Viagra as a standard treatment for women, they can suggest using Sildenafil off-label in selected cases.
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Potential risks and side effects of Viagra in women
Since Viagra is not intended for use in women, it can lead to some unwanted effects and pose health risks. Commonly observed side effects are as follows:
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Flushing
- Muscle ache or back pain
- Visual disturbances
- Dizziness
- Stomach discomfort
Furthermore, women who take Viagra may experience certain health risks, including a severe drop in blood pressure, particularly in combination with medication such as nitrates. In women with existing cardiocasvular issues, Viagra can worsen the condition. Additionally, in rare cases, prolonged clitoral engorgement, which is swelling and erection of the clitoris (similar to a condition called Priapism in men), can be observed.
Off-label Sildenafil options for women
Because of the potential benefits of Sildenafil, doctors may prescribe medications containing it for women off-label. These medicines enhance blood flow to the genitals in a way similar to Viagra in men, which is why they are generally referred to and marketed as female Viagra. Most recommended off-label pills are:
- Lovegra: Lovegra, marketed as female Viagra, contains 100 mg of Sildenafil and comes as pink pills. It helps manage FSAD by improving genital blood circulation, increasing arousal, and intensifying sensitivity. It is usually taken at least 30-60 minutes before sexual interaction. General guidelines suggest not to exceed 1 pill in a day.
- Lady era: This medication also contains 100 mg of Sildenafil and comes as pink tablets. It works similarly by boosting blood flow and arousal. Lady Era is administered 30 minutes to 1 hour before planned sexual activity. The general dosage recommendation is only 1 pill within 24 hours.
These Sildenafil-containing pink pills can cause side effects, including headache, dizziness, or nausea. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor for personalized dosage. Also, seek medical consultation if the side effects persist instead of subsiding on their own. You can take Sildenafil with or without food.
FDA-approved alternatives to female Viagra
Two FDA-approved medicines are specifically manufactured to treat Sexual Dysfunction issues in women. They are more clinically backed and safer options to use in place of Sildenafil Citrate in women. These two medicines are as follows:
- Flibanserin: This active ingredient is sold under the brand name Addyi and is approved for premenopausal women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). It gradually increases sexual desire by balancing hormones (dopamine and serotonin) that affect it. It is intended for daily use, and the usual recommended dose is 100 mg.
- Bremelanotide: This is also an active ingredient that is marketed under the brand name Vyleesi. It is a self-injectable medication that is taken as-needed. It should be injected at least 45 minutes before indulging in intimacy to boost sexual desire. Like Addyi, it is approved for HSDD treatment in premenopausal women.
Both medications are prescription-only and require a health checkup before a doctor can prescribe them. Common side effects of Vyleesi include headache, flushing, and nausea. Similarly, Flibanserin can also trigger some mild side effects that usually subside on their own. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication, be it off-label or on-label.
Conclusion
Viagra is an FDA-approved medication to treat ED in men only. Its safety in women is not clearly established, which makes it unsafe for use in the female population. However, its active ingredient, Sildenafil Citrate, is found to benefit postmenopausal women as well as women with antidepressant-induced FSAD. These benefits include better lubrication, increased genital blood flow, and heightened sensitivity.
This is why doctors sometimes prescribe Sildenafil-containing pills off-label to women. Lovegra and Lady Era are two of the medicines marketed as Viagra for women or female Viagra. They are on-demand pills and are to be taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. However, side effects like headache and dizziness are observed.
Women seeking safer, approved options can consider Addyi and Vyleesi. Addyi is a daily pill that gradually improves sexual desire, while Vyleesi is an on-demand injectable. Both are FDA-approved for treating HSDD in women. Like any medication, they may cause mild effects such as nausea or flushing. Always consult a doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Viagra available for women over the counter?
No, there is no over-the-counter (OTC) Viagra for women, as both the medication and its active ingredient, Sildenafil, require a prescription. Additionally, most OTC sexual enhancement products for women contain unregulated or herbal ingredients, and their safety and effectiveness have not been clinically proven.
Can women take Viagra for Alzheimer’s?
No, women should not take Viagra for Alzheimer’s disease since it is not an approved treatment for this mental condition. While some clinical findings suggest that Sildenafil (the active ingredient) could be linked to a low risk of getting Alzheimer’s, these studies are inconclusive.
Is there a natural female Viagra?
Yes, there are natural Viagra for females, including herbs like Horny Goat Weed, ginseng, and asparagus. These natural alternatives improve female sexual desire, increase blood flow to the genitals, and strengthen overall sexual health.
Does Addyi work immediately?
No, Addyi does not work immediately as it requires consistent daily use before bedtime. Initial improvement in low libido can be observed after 4 weeks. However, it takes approximately 8 weeks for significant changes to become noticeable.
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