Flibanserin
Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Flibanserin
Summary
Flibanserin is used to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. This is a condition characterized by low sexual desire that causes distress or interpersonal difficulty.
Flibanserin alters the activity of serotonin and other natural substances in the brain to increase sexual desire. It acts as a serotonin receptor 1A agonist and serotonin receptor 2A antagonist.
The usual daily dose for Flibanserin in adults is 100 mg taken once daily at bedtime. It can be taken with or without food.
Common side effects of Flibanserin include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and fatigue. Serious adverse effects include severe low blood pressure and fainting, especially when combined with alcohol or certain medications.
Flibanserin should not be used with alcohol, moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, or in patients with liver problems. It can cause severe low blood pressure and fainting, especially when combined with alcohol or certain medications. It's also not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant.
Indications and Purpose
How does Flibanserin work?
Flibanserin acts as a serotonin receptor 1A agonist and serotonin receptor 2A antagonist, altering the activity of serotonin and other natural substances in the brain to increase sexual desire.
Is Flibanserin effective?
Flibanserin has been shown to improve sexual desire in premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in clinical trials. It resulted in statistically significant improvements in the number of satisfying sexual events and sexual desire scores compared to placebo.
What is Flibanserin?
Flibanserin is used to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It works by altering the activity of serotonin and other natural substances in the brain, which can increase sexual desire.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Flibanserin?
Flibanserin is typically used for a duration of up to 8 weeks. If there is no improvement in symptoms after this period, it is recommended to discontinue use and consult a doctor.
How do I take Flibanserin?
Flibanserin should be taken once daily at bedtime, with or without food. Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as they can increase the risk of side effects.
How long does it take for Flibanserin to start working?
Flibanserin may take up to 8 weeks to show improvement in symptoms. If no improvement is observed after this period, consult your doctor about discontinuing the medication.
How should I store Flibanserin?
Store Flibanserin at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
What is the usual dose of Flibanserin?
The usual daily dose for Flibanserin in adults is 100 mg taken once daily at bedtime. Flibanserin is not indicated for use in children.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Flibanserin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Flibanserin is excreted in rat milk, and it is unknown if it is present in human milk. Due to potential serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Flibanserin.
Can Flibanserin be taken safely while pregnant?
There are no studies of Flibanserin in pregnant women to inform whether there is a drug-associated risk. Animal studies showed fetal toxicity only with significant maternal toxicity. Consult a doctor for personalized advice if pregnant.
Can I take Flibanserin with other prescription drugs?
Flibanserin interacts with moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as ketoconazole and erythromycin, which can increase its concentration and risk of side effects. It is also contraindicated with alcohol due to the risk of severe hypotension.
Is Flibanserin safe for the elderly?
Flibanserin is not indicated for use in geriatric patients, and its safety and effectiveness have not been established in this population. Elderly patients should consult their doctor for alternative treatments.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Flibanserin?
Drinking alcohol while taking Flibanserin can significantly increase the risk of severe low blood pressure and fainting. It is advised to wait at least two hours after consuming one or two alcoholic drinks before taking Flibanserin at bedtime. If you consume three or more drinks, skip the Flibanserin dose that evening.
Who should avoid taking Flibanserin?
Flibanserin is contraindicated with alcohol use, moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, and in patients with hepatic impairment. It can cause severe low blood pressure and fainting, especially when combined with alcohol or certain medications.
