What condition does Flibanserin treat?
Flibanserin is used for women who have not gone through menopause. This prescription is usually recommended for those who have low sexual desire and are concerned about it.
This prescription must not be used for the treatment of low sexual desire caused by:
- A mental or medical disorder
- The effects of other drugs
- Problems in the relationship
Flibanserin comes as a tablet for oral use. This was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015.
How does Flibanserin work?
Flibanserin disturbs the way the brain works. This interferes with communication between the brain’s nerves. It controls sexual desire and other pleasant feelings. Nerves connect by creating and releasing chemicals called neurotransmitters. The neurotransmitters travel to other nerves where they attach to receptors on nerves. The attachment of neurotransmitters either inhibits the function of the nearby nerves.
This drug blocks several of the receptors on nerves. It also stimulates serotonin type 1A. This medication may regulate areas of the brain that control sexual desire in pre-menopausal women with reduced sexual desire and interest.
What is the recommended dosage for Flibanserin?
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Take it exactly as it is prescribed. Do not take it more often than the prescription.
Flibanserin is usually taken once a day at bedtime. It is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Take the drug only at bedtime to reduce the risk of low blood pressure, drowsiness, or fainting. Remember to take it at the same time every day. It might take up to 8 weeks before symptoms will improve. Keep taking the medicine as directed and inform your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.
Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while using this medication unless your doctor says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor for more details.
What are the side effects of Flibanserin?
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Spinning sensation (vertigo)
- Insomnia
- Menstrual spotting
- Rash
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
What are the precautions in taking Flibanserin?
- Before using this medicine, let your doctor know if you are allergic to the drug or if you have any other allergies. This might have an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
- This may not be recommended for use in pregnant women.
- Consult your doctor first if you are breastfeeding women.
- Flibanserin is not to be used to enhance sexual performance. This drug is not recommended to be used by women who have already gone through menopause. This should not also give to men.
- Tell your doctor what herbal products you are taking, especially resveratrol, ginkgo, and St. John’s wort.
- You should not take this medicine within 2 hours after drinking alcohol. Alcohol may cause you to have dangerously low blood pressure if taken with this drug.
- Tell your doctor about all your current medications and any you start or stop using. Many medications can interact and some should not be used together.
- This prescription is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
