http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm458734.htm

GM folks! By now I am sure you have heard of the little blue pill for men. This pill, commonly known as Viagra, pops up on the tv in several commercials as a remedy for men who want to “do it,” but are physically unable to due to some softness. This pill was approved for use over 17 years ago and several additional research studies have focused on men’s sexual health, leaving us women behind. Of course, traditionally women have not been able to openly express any sort of sexual desires despite our overuse as sex symbols in mainstream media. So this perfect storm of problems has led to what many people are deeming a victory for women’s sexual health. However, I have my reserves…

Have y’all seen this new “Female Viagra” called Addyi? Well, third time’s the charm they say! It’s a failed antidepressant that was rejected 2 times before this small biotech company was able to hook up with the right organizations that sponsored lobbyists to get the pill’s FDA approval at the 3rd attempt. I don’t really like these comparisons to Viagra because they are completely different!! For starters, Viagra treats a male physical condition by increasing blood flow to correct erectile dysfunction and it only has to be taken before sexual activity. Addyi, on the other hand, treats a female mental condition by changing brain chemistry through unknown methods. The focus is on increasing a woman’s desire to be sexually active; whereas, the role of viagra is simply to help the man be physically ready to act upon the desire that he already has. Oh and Addyi has to be taken everyday and I’m not even going to get into those side effects. Did I mention no alcohol consumption while taking Addyi? I’ve also heard through the grapevine that the primary disorder in which Addyi is an optional treatment was recently removed from one of the psychologist disorders reference manuals so it’s no longer a recognized disorder — that’s pure gossip though…no fact checks on that one.

On a positive note, I am ecstatic for the implications of this new approved drug. I believe Addyi IS a victory for women’s sexual health in that now there will be more conversations about it, which will hopefully lead to an increase in research studies focused on all aspects of women’s health.

–Stassi Nicole