Viagra, which contains sildenafil citrate, was first made available in 1998 for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It has helped millions of men who face trouble getting or sustaining an erection.
The blue pill promotes an erection in men by boosting blood supply to the penile organ through an intricate mechanism. However, this action has increased the curiosity among women with female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). They think if Viagra can work so well in boosting blood supply to the genitals in men, why can’t it work in them too?
There are a few anecdotal reports mentioning that Viagra is effective in some women with FSAD, but it is still not available for women. Women can buy generic Female Viagra containing sildenafil citrate on behalf of their male partner if the pharmacist thinks that’s appropriate, but they cannot purchase it for themselves.
Dr. Anand Patel, a GP who specializes in sexual health issues, told Patient Info, “Yes there is gentle blood flow improvement; however, that doesn’t necessarily equate to sexual enjoyment.”
“Give Viagra to a man and he’s generally pretty happy because his outward sign of arousal is an erection and then he can use that for pleasure,” he explained. “With a woman, you improve blood flow to the genitals, but there are more factors at play.”
So are there any Generic Female Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) pills available for women?
Well, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved sildenafil citrate for the treatment of FSDA. However, flibanserin (Addyi), which is often called Female Viagra, has been approved for women with sexual dysfunction, but it completely different from Viagra.
Viagra and Addyi have a totally different mechanisms of action. Viagra works on the circulatory system of the body, while Addyi has an action on the brain.
For years, several studies have assessed the effects of Viagra in women affected by FSAD. The findings have been conflicting and the drug is not devoid of adverse effects.
It is important to note that FSAD is a heterogeneous condition with several underlying causes, which is why it is difficult to diagnose. Also, the condition requires appropriate treatment that includes counseling, sexual therapy, and managing the underlying medical conditions.
Doctors should pursue a global approach to women with sexual difficulties, while non-hormonal treatment such as Viagra should be kept as the last option, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Remember, in women, Viagra is not always the right cure. It takes a holistic approach to help women overcome their sexual issues. Most women have FSAD induced by psychological issues so they may need psychological evaluation and intervention. Legally, there are no Generic Female Viagra (sildenafil citrate) pills available for women. The only Female Viagra approved for the treatment of FSAD is Addyi, which is totally different from sildenafil citrate as far the pharmacological action is concerned.
