Vyleesi is a medication used to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women. HSDD is a condition characterized by a lack of sexual desire, which can result in distress and interpersonal difficulties. Vyleesi was approved by the FDA in 2019 and has been hailed as a breakthrough in treating HSDD. Lets talk about the effectiveness of Vyleesi, how it works, and the potential side effects.
Vyleesi is a melanocortin receptor agonist, which means it works by activating certain receptors in the brain. These receptors are involved in the regulation of sexual desire and arousal. By activating these receptors, Vyleesi increases sexual desire in women with HSDD.
Several clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Vyleesi. In a phase 3 clinical trial involving over 1,200 premenopausal women with HSDD, Vyleesi was found to improve sexual desire compared to placebo significantly. The study also found that Vyleesi improved distress related to low sexual desire. Another study found that women who received Vyleesi reported a greater increase in sexual desire than those who received a placebo.
While Vyleesi has shown promise in clinical trials, it is important to note that it may not be effective for all women with HSDD. In addition, the effectiveness of Vyleesi may vary depending on individual factors such as age and underlying medical conditions.
Like all medications, Vyleesi can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, flushing, and injection site reactions. In rare cases, Vyleesi can cause severe hypersensitivity reactions, which may require immediate medical attention. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use Vyleesi, as its safety in these populations has not been established.
Despite the potential side effects, Vyleesi has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for HSDD in women. It provides a non-hormonal option for women who experience a lack of sexual desire, which various factors, including hormonal imbalances, psychological factors, and certain medical conditions, can cause.
Though not perfect, Vyleesi is another option for women. An injection that has been shown to be effective in increasing sexual desire in women with HSDD. It works by activating the needed receptors in the brain. Like all medicines, Vyleesi has it’s limitations, but we are excited to have another option in the treatment of HSDD. If you are experiencing a lack of sexual desire and are interested in trying Vyleesi, call to make an appointment with your OBGYN.
References:
- Kingsberg, S. A., Clayton, A. H., Portman, D., Williams, L. A., Krop, J., Jordan, R., & Lucas, J. (2019). Bremelanotide for female sexual dysfunctions in premenopausal women: a randomized, placebo-controlled dose-finding trial. Women’s Health, 15, 1745506519888008.
- Clayton, A. H., Kingsberg, S. A., Jordan, R., Portman, D., Brown, C., & Hullmann, R. (2019). Bremelanotide for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder: two randomized phase 3 trials. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 134(5), 899-908.
- Vyleesi [Prescribing Information]. AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2019.
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