Medical review by: Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM
Summary:
- Viagra® (sildenafil), is FDA-approved only for men’s erectile dysfunction (ED). Its effectiveness and safety for women are not well-established. Biological females cannot receive prescriptions for Viagra® through Lemonaid Health.
- While Viagra® improves men’s sexual function by enhancing blood flow, women’s sexual arousal is more complex, involving hormonal, emotional, and psychological factors to a greater degree.
- Some studies suggest that Viagra® might have benefits for women with antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction, but research is inconclusive.
- Treatments like hormonal therapies, psychotherapy, FDA-approved medications like flibanserin and bremelanotide, and lifestyle changes can be more effective for treating female sexual dysfunctions.
Viagra® is only FDA-approved for use in men
Viagra® (sildenafil) is a popular erectile dysfunction (ED) medication for men. Although some women also wonder whether it can increase their libido or have other beneficial effects, the FDA has not approved this medication’s use for women. Lemonaid Health does not offer Viagra® (sildenafil) for women.
Understanding how Viagra® works
Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra®, primarily treats erectile dysfunction (ED) by enhancing blood flow to the penis. Here’s how it works in the body:
- Inhibition of PDE5: Viagra® works by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). This enzyme typically breaks down a substance known as cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
- Increased cGMP Levels: When PDE5 is inhibited, levels of cGMP rise. cGMP is important for relaxing smooth muscle cells in blood vessels.
- Enhanced Blood Flow: As a result of the relaxation of these muscles, blood vessels dilate, especially in the penis, leading to increased blood flow and an erection in response to sexual stimulation.
(Learn more: Viagra® guide (uses, benefits, & side effects))
Why the physiological differences between men & women matter
Men and women’s sexual arousal both involve psychological, emotional, and hormonal elements, but the primary physiological mechanism targeted by Viagra®—increased blood flow—is more directly linked to sexual function in men. In men, arousal typically leads to increased blood flow to the penis, which is necessary for an erection.
In women, sexual arousal does not rely as directly on increased genital blood flow. Female sexual response is more heavily impacted by hormonal changes, emotional states, and contextual factors. As a result, the effects of Viagra® may not address the broader aspects of female sexual arousal and response.
Viagra®’s effects on women
There has been some limited research into Viagra®’s effects on women..
- Early studies in the 2000s, such as one published in the Journal of Women’s Health & Gender-Based Medicine, found sildenafil (Viagra®) to be no more effective than a placebo in enhancing sexual function in women.
- Some newer studies have suggested otherwise, but more research is needed. For example, one study published in the Journal of The American Medical Association found that Viagra® might help treat sexual dysfunction in women with antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction.
- Still, many scientists caution against the use of PDE5 inhibitors in women, due to major drawbacks and a lack of conclusive results—as well as the fact that non-hormonal treatments for female sexual arousal disorder have not been FDA-approved.
Associated risks
Pfizer’s patient information for Viagra® states that it is not for use in women or children. As such, there is no known “safe” or “effective” dosage of Viagra® for women to take.
See also: is it safe to use Viagra® & Cialis® at the same time?
Alternative treatments for female sexual dysfunctions
Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (SIAD) is characterized by a reduced interest in sexual activity, difficulty in becoming aroused, or a lack of sexual enjoyment. It’s a complex condition influenced by psychological, physiological, and social factors.
The diagnosis and treatment of FSIAD require a holistic approach, considering not just physical but also emotional and relational aspects.
Viagra® is a registered trademark of Pfizer Inc. Addyi® is a registered trademark of Sprout Pharmaceuticals, Inc. or its affiliates. Vyleesi® is a registered trademark of Palatin Technologies, Inc.
