New Drug Approved for Treating Low Libido in Women

The Food and Drug Administration recently approved Vyleesi (bremelanotide) to help women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder, or low libido, which affects 8% to 10% of all women. The new drug, which will be available in September, has been referred to as “female Viagra.” However, that's a misnomer. Viagra works on blood vessels; whereas, Vyleesi acts on brain receptors.

Vyleesi is intended to treat low sexual desire that is not due to existing medical or psychiatric conditions, problems within the relationship, or the effects of a medication or other drug substance. Patients using Vyleesi will inject themselves under the skin of the abdomen or thigh at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.

On this Mayo Clinic Radio program segment, Dr. Stephanie Faubion, an internal medicine physician and the Bill and Penny George Director, Center for Women's Health at Mayo Clinic, discusses Vyleesi. She also has a warning about over-the-counter treatments for menopause symptoms.