Summary
Flibanserin from Boehringer-Ingelheim shows great potential to treat an often underdiagnosed condition. It could potentially be the female viagra.
Analysis
Flibanserin from Boehringer-Ingelheim shows great potential to help patients with an often overlooked condition, Female Hypoactive Sexual Desire. It is very different from other drugs that have been released or are in the pipeline. Many of these other products are hormone base testosterone creams and patients often have concerns about the risks of hormonal based treatments. In contrast, Flibanserin is not a Hormone. In fact it was originally studied as a new potential antidepressant. The mechanism of action makes a lot of sense since patients with Major Depression often have decreased libido. Treat their depression and their libido improves. In early studies with Flibanserin for Depression some women reported increased sexual desire. This is not unlike Viagra which was originally studied as a potential drug for angina treatment. Male study participants noted an unusual and welcome side effect. The jury is still out on Flibanserin but hopefully it will provide our patients with another useful treatment option.
