Comparing Available Treatments for Female HSDD

The herbal ingredients in various supplements may interact with certain medications or health conditions, so it’s important to get the all-clear from your doctor before taking them. Many of these products increase nitric oxide (NO) production, which can lower blood pressure.

• Filbanserin can cause dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and low blood pressure.
• It has serious interactions with alcohol and certain medications like antifungals.
• Bremelanotide side effects include nausea, vomiting, and temporary skin darkening.
• Ospemifene may increase the risk of blood clots and cause hot flashes.
• Testosterone therapy can cause acne, unwanted hair growth, and voice changes.
• Topical estrogen has minimal systemic absorption but can cause local irritation.
• All prescription treatments require a careful risk-benefit analysis with a doctor.

Those with cardiovascular concerns or who are on blood pressure medications should consult a doctor to make sure these products are safe to try.63 Products containing L-arginine — such as Jolt Gel, HerSolution Gel, and VitaFLUX — could trigger a herpes flare-up (oral, genital, or both).3 Some libido-support products for women, like HerSolution pills (not the gel), may contain a synthetic form of DHEA, a hormone that acts as a precursor to androgens and estrogens. This ingredient has the potential to interact with a host of medications, increase the risk of certain cancers, lower “good” HDL cholesterol, trigger manic episodes, and more.6 12 At varying times and for many reasons, including the hormonal changes of menopause, women and AFAB individuals may notice that their libido has dropped and their desire for sex is much lower than it used to be.13 Fortunately, there are a few generally safe and effective female arousal products on the market. These products take on a few different forms — supplements, gels or topicals, and prescription medications — each with its own way of working to try and rectify your concerns.

We got busy with a full clinical study.

The herbal ingredients in various supplements may interact with certain medications or health conditions, so it’s important to get the all-clear from your doctor before taking them. Many of these products increase nitric oxide (NO) production, which can lower blood pressure. Those with cardiovascular concerns or who are on blood pressure medications should consult a doctor to make sure these products are safe to try.63 Products containing L-arginine — such as Jolt Gel, HerSolution Gel, and VitaFLUX — could trigger a herpes flare-up (oral, genital, or both).3 Some libido-support products for women, like HerSolution pills (not the gel), may contain a synthetic form of DHEA, a hormone that acts as a precursor to androgens and estrogens. This ingredient has the potential to interact with a host of medications, increase the risk of certain cancers, lower “good” HDL cholesterol, trigger manic episodes, and more.6 12 At varying times and for many reasons, including the hormonal changes of menopause, women and AFAB individuals may notice that their libido has dropped and their desire for sex is much lower than it used to be.13 Fortunately, there are a few generally safe and effective female arousal products on the market. These products take on a few different forms — supplements, gels or topicals, and prescription medications — each with its own way of working to try and rectify your concerns.

Exploratory Phase 2b RESPOND Study, Completed in 2023

Female libido support supplements often tout being an “all-natural” approach to treating sexual concerns. These supplements generally contain herbal and botanical ingredients, vitamins and minerals, or organic compounds, like amino acids. Some, including HerSolution, may use synthetic forms of hormones, like DHEA and melatonin. The main goals for these products typically include the following potential benefits: Increasing blood flow to the genitals and relaxing smooth muscle tissue by influencing nitric oxide (NO) production.14 Regulating sex hormones — estrogen and testosterone — which may improve sex drive and other related symptoms.15 16 Balancing neurotransmitters, some of which play a major role in libido and sexual excitement.17 Currently, there are only two FDA-approved treatments for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD): Addyi, a pill, and Vyleesi, an injection. HSDD is believed to be caused by an imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain. Female libido support supplements often tout being an “all-natural” approach to treating sexual concerns. These supplements generally contain herbal and botanical ingredients, vitamins and minerals, or organic compounds, like amino acids. Some, including HerSolution, may use synthetic forms of hormones, like DHEA and melatonin. The main goals for these products typically include the following potential benefits: Increasing blood flow to the genitals and relaxing smooth muscle tissue by influencing nitric oxide (NO) production.14 Regulating sex hormones — estrogen and testosterone — which may improve sex drive and other related symptoms.15 16 Balancing neurotransmitters, some of which play a major role in libido and sexual excitement.17 Currently, there are only two FDA-approved treatments for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD): Addyi, a pill, and Vyleesi, an injection.

• A healthy, balanced diet supports overall health, including hormonal balance.
• Regular physical exercise improves blood circulation, mood, and body image.
• Adequate sleep is crucial for regulating hormones that influence sexual desire.
• Stress management techniques (yoga, meditation) can reduce a major libido killer.
• Reducing alcohol consumption can improve sexual response and overall health.
• Quitting smoking improves blood flow to sexual organs and overall vitality.
• Open communication with a partner is fundamental for a healthy sexual relationship.

HSDD is believed to be caused by an imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain.

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Viagra Generic	50mg	90 + 6 Pills	107.37€ 102.26€	Buy
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Viagra Original	100mg	8 Pills	59.84€ 56.99€	Buy
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Viagra Generic	150mg	120 + 8 Pills	177.58€ 169.12€	Buy
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Viagra Original	100mg	34 + 2 Pills	163.67€ 155.88€	Buy

But other factors, like satisfaction in a relationship or self-esteem, may also play a role.18 Due to the believed involvement of neurotransmitters, both Addyi and Vyleesi regulate or modify the release of these chemical messengers in different ways — the former on serotonin (and indirectly dopamine and norepinephrine) and the latter on dopamine and norepinephrine alone.18 Another prescription pill option, Cake Meds’ Libido Lift Rx, contains the drug tadalafil (generic Cialis). Tadalafil was FDA-approved in 2003 for erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension.64 65 However, healthcare providers can prescribe drugs for unapproved uses based on their judgment that they’re medically appropriate; this is known as “off-label” use.42 The tadalafil in Libido Lift Rx is off-label, but research suggests that phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors — like tadalafil, sildenafil, and vardenafil — could be an effective treatment for female sexual dysfunction (FSD).66 Female arousal gels or creams can also help with sexual satisfaction. While these products can’t affect things like hormone or neurotransmitter balance, some of the ingredients can increase genital blood flow and sensitivity, and others can add additional vaginal lubrication. Like supplements, OTC female arousal topicals often rely on botanical ingredients and amino acids. But prescription topicals, like Cake Meds’ O-Cream Rx and Wisp’s OMG! Cream, add drugs, such as sildenafil, to the mix. Like the tadalafil in the Libido Lift Rx pill mentioned above, the sildenafil in these two prescription topicals is off-label, but a small study from 2020 found that women who used sildenafil cream reported “clinically significant increases” in arousal versus the results from no cream and placebo cream.9 At the time of this writing, the closest thing to an “instant” female arousal pill is Cake Meds’ Libido Lift Rx, which is a dissolvable prescription tablet containing tadalafil that should work in about 30 minutes and may be effective for up to 36 hours.67 Otherwise, pills tend to take the longest to start working (anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month or so).

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But other factors, like satisfaction in a relationship or self-esteem, may also play a role.18 Due to the believed involvement of neurotransmitters, both Addyi and Vyleesi regulate or modify the release of these chemical messengers in different ways — the former on serotonin (and indirectly dopamine and norepinephrine) and the latter on dopamine and norepinephrine alone.18 Another prescription pill option, Cake Meds’ Libido Lift Rx, contains the drug tadalafil (generic Cialis). Tadalafil was FDA-approved in 2003 for erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension.64 65 However, healthcare providers can prescribe drugs for unapproved uses based on their judgment that they’re medically appropriate; this is known as “off-label” use.42 The tadalafil in Libido Lift Rx is off-label, but research suggests that phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors — like tadalafil, sildenafil, and vardenafil — could be an effective treatment for female sexual dysfunction (FSD).66 Female arousal gels or creams can also help with sexual satisfaction. While these products can’t affect things like hormone or neurotransmitter balance, some of the ingredients can increase genital blood flow and sensitivity, and others can add additional vaginal lubrication. Like supplements, OTC female arousal topicals often rely on botanical ingredients and amino acids. But prescription topicals, like Cake Meds’ O-Cream Rx and Wisp’s OMG!

Let's do it.

Cream, add drugs, such as sildenafil, to the mix. Like the tadalafil in the Libido Lift Rx pill mentioned above, the sildenafil in these two prescription topicals is off-label, but a small study from 2020 found that women who used sildenafil cream reported “clinically significant increases” in arousal versus the results from no cream and placebo cream.9 At the time of this writing, the closest thing to an “instant” female arousal pill is Cake Meds’ Libido Lift Rx, which is a dissolvable prescription tablet containing tadalafil that should work in about 30 minutes and may be effective for up to 36 hours.67 Otherwise, pills tend to take the longest to start working (anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month or so). The FDA-approved pill, Addyi, and OTC supplements have the potential to promote the longest-lasting benefits, however, as they build up and continue to be in your system. If pills don’t interest you, then topicals, such as OMG! Cream and Jolt Gel, or the prescription injection, Vyleesi, could be good alternatives. The FDA-approved pill, Addyi, and OTC supplements have the potential to promote the longest-lasting benefits, however, as they build up and continue to be in your system.

Impact Aspect	Description	Supporting Data or Anecdotes
Increased intimacy	Improved communication and satisfaction	User testimonials
Reduced intimacy issues	Fewer misunderstandings about desire	Clinical study surveys
Enhanced trust and emotional connection	Spurred by improved sexual satisfaction	Psychologist reports

If pills don’t interest you, then topicals, such as OMG! Cream and Jolt Gel, or the prescription injection, Vyleesi, could be good alternatives. These also all work within the hour, but the effects only last a short amount of time. Topicals can be effective for around 20-60 minutes, and Vyleesi content in the body peaks at around one hour before falling again.57 Even with combining Addyi and Vyleesi, there don’t appear to be any known risks of mixing these two approaches together at the time of this writing. If this changes, we’ll update this guide with an appropriate warning. But, for now, it appears safe to use a pill or supplement to promote potential long-term benefits while also using female arousal topicals for an extra, more timely boost. L-Arginine, L-citrulline, and L-carnitine may improve blood flow to the genitalia Zinc and magnesium could help physical arousal in people with deficiencies Capsules are vegan-friendly (corn- and plant-based gelatin) Ingredients should be generally safe for most people 60-day money-back guarantee for new customers Subscribe for 15% off of recurring deliveries Save $5 when you visit Promescent using our links on this page Unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with corn allergies Dose is six capsules daily (three viagra pfizer pills, twice a day) L-arginine may trigger a herpes flare-up Promescent made its name by pioneering delay sprays to help men overcome premature ejaculation, but the company has since greatly expanded its catalog of sexual health products. Its VitaFLUX supplement is available for men and women (both are the exact same except for label color), but in this guide, we'll focus on what this supplement might do for those with female anatomy. Promescent claims VitaFLUX for Women may help: Aid in faster recovery from injury or exhaustion We’ll investigate the validity of these claims next, but it seems like Promescent intends for VitaFLUX to boost both sexual and overall wellness. This is similar to how Leading Edge Health — the company behind HerSolution — markets its female libido supplements. Before delving into the supplement’s potential efficacy, let’s first take a quick look at the active ingredients in VitaFLUX, which include: Though it has more of them, VitaFLUX isn’t the only product in this guide to use amino acids to support sexual health.

• Flibanserin works on neurotransmitters in the brain, increasing dopamine and noradrenaline.
• It simultaneously decreases serotonin activity, which is thought to inhibit sexual desire.
• Bremelanotide is a melanocortin receptor agonist that acts on pathways in the brain.
• Ospemifene is a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) with estrogen-like effects.
• Testosterone is thought to play a key role in libido for both men and women.
• Topical estrogens work by replenishing thinning vaginal tissues.
• Understanding the mechanism helps in choosing the right treatment for the cause.

For example, both Jolt Gel (a topical) and Hello Cake’s Drive For Her (a supplement) also contain L-arginine. Now, let’s break down how (or if) these ingredients can potentially provide the benefits suggested by Promescent.

• Filbanserin (Addyi) is not available on the standard NHS drug tariff.
• Vyleesi (Bremelanotide) is also not routinely funded by the NHS in the UK.
• Ospemifene (Senshio) may be prescribed on the NHS for specific menopausal symptoms.
• Testosterone is used off-label, and funding can vary by local Clinical Commissioning Group.
• Most treatments for FSD are primarily accessed through private prescription.
• Private consultation costs range from £50-£250, plus the cost of medication.
• Some private health insurance policies may cover specialist consultations and treatments.

A systematic review of research studies suggests that L-arginine (along with L-citrulline) can result in greater sexual arousal and satisfaction for pre-, peri-, and postmenopausal women who have HSDD or a related concern. The effective daily dosages that led to promising results within the examined studies were similar to the arginine dose delivered daily by VitaFLUX.10 These positive results are likely due to the fact that L-arginine is a precursor of nitric oxide (NO), which promotes better blood flow throughout the body (including to the genitals).

Where the Magic Happens

What are other tips for boosting female sex drive?

Nitric oxide is also believed to play a major role in the smooth muscle relaxation of sexual arousal.14 Additionally, the increase in blood circulation from nitric oxide’s vasodilation properties can reduce vaginal dryness, as vaginal lubrication is actually ultra-filtered blood.19 L-Citrulline is partially converted to L-arginine, which is then converted to nitric oxide, meaning that this amino acid can also promote NO production.10 Research on L-citrulline for sexual dysfunction usually involves it being used with L-arginine, and most of the research on L-citrulline alone involves men. For example, one study found that 1.5g (1,500mg) of L-citrulline appears to be a safe and effective alternative treatment for mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.20 However, since researchers note that this outcome is likely due to increased NO production, it can be assumed that women may also experience similar benefits from L-citrulline.

Off-Label Use	Potential Risks	Medical Advice
Sildenafil for Female Libido	Cardiovascular side effects, interactions with other meds	Always consult a doctor before use
Non-approved supplements	Unknown composition, higher risk of adverse reactions	Use only if prescribed by a healthcare professional
DIY formulations	Dangerous, no clinical testing	Highly discouraged

L-Carnitine is an amino acid that plays a critical role in energy production — it transports fatty acids to the mitochondria (that “powerhouse of the cell” you likely heard about in science class) to be turned into a form of energy called adenosine triphosphate (ATP).21 This amino acid also shows the potential to improve exercise performance while reducing oxidative stress in response to resistance training.22 This could be why Promescent states that VitaFLUX may be able to help you recover more quickly from injury or exhaustion. And, while there isn’t much research on L-carnitine and sexual function, one study on lambs found that “a disruption in carnitine homeostasis” led to a reduction in bioavailable NO.

THE BIG “O” (OVERVIEW)

Now, let’s break down how (or if) these ingredients can potentially provide the benefits suggested by Promescent. A systematic review of research studies suggests that L-arginine (along with L-citrulline) can result in greater sexual arousal and satisfaction for pre-, peri-, and postmenopausal women who have HSDD or a related concern. The effective daily dosages that led to promising results within the examined studies were similar to the arginine dose delivered daily by VitaFLUX.10 These positive results are likely due to the fact that L-arginine is a precursor of nitric oxide (NO), which promotes better blood flow throughout the body (including to the genitals). Nitric oxide is also believed to play a major role in the smooth muscle relaxation of sexual arousal.14 Additionally, the increase in blood circulation from nitric oxide’s vasodilation properties can reduce vaginal dryness, as vaginal lubrication is actually ultra-filtered blood.19 L-Citrulline is partially converted to L-arginine, which is then converted to nitric oxide, meaning that this amino acid can also promote NO production.10 Research on L-citrulline for sexual dysfunction usually involves it being used with L-arginine, and most of the research on L-citrulline alone involves men. For example, one study found that 1.5g (1,500mg) of L-citrulline appears to be a safe and effective alternative treatment for mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.20 However, since researchers note that this outcome is likely due to increased NO production, it can be assumed that women may also experience similar benefits from L-citrulline.

Side effects

L-Carnitine is an amino acid that plays a critical role in energy production — it transports fatty acids to the mitochondria (that “powerhouse of the cell” you likely heard about in science class) to be turned into a form of energy called adenosine triphosphate (ATP).21 This amino acid also shows the potential to improve exercise performance while reducing oxidative stress in response to resistance training.22 This could be why Promescent states that VitaFLUX may be able to help you recover more quickly from injury or exhaustion. And, while there isn’t much research on L-carnitine and sexual function, one study on lambs found that “a disruption in carnitine homeostasis” led to a reduction in bioavailable NO. In this study, maintaining carnitine homeostasis kept ATP levels adequate, which also appeared to have a positive effect on preserving Hsp90 activity. This “molecular chaperone” can help support hormone signaling pathways (such as those for estrogen and testosterone).23 The research on magnesium and sexual function is sparse, but there is definitely some potential for it to be a beneficial addition. One study on the magnesium levels of men reporting premature ejaculation (PE) found that lower levels were “significantly related” to the condition.24 However, more research is needed on the relationship between magnesium and PE. In this study, maintaining carnitine homeostasis kept ATP levels adequate, which also appeared to have a positive effect on preserving Hsp90 activity.

Trend	Description	Expected Developments
Increased regulatory approval	More medications gaining approval	Expanded options for women
Personalized treatment plans	Based on genetic and hormonal profiles	Customized therapies
Natural and organic products	Growing popularity among health-conscious consumers	Rise of herbal and plant-based solutions

This “molecular chaperone” can help support hormone signaling pathways (such as those for estrogen and testosterone).23 The research on magnesium and sexual function is sparse, but there is definitely some potential for it to be a beneficial addition.

HERE IS WHAT SHE SAYS...

These also all work within the hour, but the effects only last a short amount of time. Topicals can be effective for around 20-60 minutes, and Vyleesi content in the body peaks at around one hour before falling again.57 Even with combining Addyi and Vyleesi, there don’t appear to be any known risks of mixing these two approaches together at the time of this writing. If this changes, we’ll update this guide with an appropriate warning. But, for now, it appears safe to use a pill or supplement to promote potential long-term benefits while also using female arousal topicals for an extra, more timely boost. L-Arginine, L-citrulline, and L-carnitine may improve blood flow to the genitalia Zinc and magnesium could help physical arousal in people with deficiencies Capsules are vegan-friendly (corn- and plant-based gelatin) Ingredients should be generally safe for most people 60-day money-back guarantee for new customers Subscribe for 15% off of recurring deliveries Save $5 when you visit Promescent using our links on this page Unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with corn allergies Dose is six capsules daily (three viagra pfizer pills, twice a day) L-arginine may trigger a herpes flare-up Promescent made its name by pioneering delay sprays to help men overcome premature ejaculation, but the company has since greatly expanded its catalog of sexual health products.

Though you cannot place an order quite yet...

Its VitaFLUX supplement is available for men and women (both are the exact same except for label color), but in this guide, we'll focus on what this supplement might do for those with female anatomy. Promescent claims VitaFLUX for Women may help: Aid in faster recovery from injury or exhaustion We’ll investigate the validity of these claims next, but it seems like Promescent intends for VitaFLUX to boost both sexual and overall wellness. This is similar to how Leading Edge Health — the company behind HerSolution — markets its female libido supplements. Before delving into the supplement’s potential efficacy, let’s first take a quick look at the active ingredients in VitaFLUX, which include: Though it has more of them, VitaFLUX isn’t the only product in this guide to use amino acids to support sexual health. For example, both Jolt Gel (a topical) and Hello Cake’s Drive For Her (a supplement) also contain L-arginine. One study on the magnesium levels of men reporting premature ejaculation (PE) found that lower levels were “significantly related” to the condition.24 However, more research is needed on the relationship between magnesium and PE.