Introduction: Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is the most common form of female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Some theories suggest that HSDD has a neurobiological component linked to neurotransmitter imbalances. Flibanserin is the only FDA-approved treatment of HSDD; before its approval, the disorder was often left untreated or interventions were made using evidence-based psychological methods or 'off-label' use of bupropion, testosterone and other dopaminergic agents.
Areas covered: Flibanserin, a multifunctional serotonin agonist/antagonist, is approved as a nonhormonal option designed specifically for the treatment of HSDD. Flibanserin has been shown to cause statistically significant increases in the number of satisfying sexual events and in sexual desire scores on standardized/validated measures while reducing FSD-related distress of premenopausal women diagnosed with HSDD. Similar efficacy has been demonstrated in a smaller group of postmenopausal women also affected by HSDD. The side effects of flibanserin include dizziness, somnolence, nausea and (rarely) syncope, and are comparable to other CNS drugs.
Expert opinion: While there has been debate over the approval of flibanserin for treatment of HSDD, it is evident that flibanserin provides meaningful relief to women suffering from a common sexual dysfunction and is an important addition to the field of women's health.
Keywords: female sexual distress; female sexual dysfunction; flibanserin; hypoactive sexual desire disorder.