Flibanserin (Addyi): straightforward facts and safe-use tips
Flibanserin, sold as Addyi, is a prescription medicine for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). It’s not a one-time pill for sexual activity. You take it nightly and it can slowly raise desire for some women after a few weeks. If you’re curious whether it might help you, this page explains how it works, what to expect, and key safety points to watch.
How flibanserin works and who should take it
Flibanserin acts on brain chemistry — it works on serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine systems to shift signals that affect sexual desire. Doctors prescribe it only for premenopausal women diagnosed with HSDD, not for men or postmenopausal women. It’s for people whose low desire causes personal distress and isn’t caused by relationship problems, other medical conditions, hormonal issues, or certain drugs.
The usual dose is 100 mg taken once every night at bedtime. It’s meant to be a daily medication; you won’t get immediate effects the first time you take it. Many users notice changes after about 4 to 8 weeks. If there’s no meaningful benefit after 8 weeks, clinicians often stop the treatment.
Safety, side effects, and interactions
Common side effects include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, fatigue, and dry mouth. The most important safety issue is the risk of low blood pressure and fainting when flibanserin is mixed with alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol can raise this risk, so alcohol and flibanserin should not be used together.
Flibanserin is processed by the liver enzyme CYP3A4. That means some medicines can raise its levels and increase side effects. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (for example, certain antifungals and antibiotics) are usually contraindicated. Tell your prescriber about all drugs and supplements you take, including herbal products.
If you have liver problems, flibanserin may not be safe for you. Your doctor will assess liver health and other medical conditions before prescribing. Also mention if you take blood pressure medicines, sedatives, or drugs that make you sleepy — combining them with flibanserin can be risky.
If you start feeling faint, unusually sleepy, or dizzy, stop the medication and call your clinician. For any severe reaction seek emergency care.
Expectations matter: flibanserin’s benefit is typically modest. Some women report noticeable improvement in desire and sexual satisfaction; others don’t see much change. Track your symptoms with your clinician so you can decide together whether to continue.
Buying flibanserin requires a valid prescription. If you shop online, use licensed pharmacies and check credentials. Avoid sites that sell prescription drugs without asking for a prescription. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist or your healthcare provider for trusted pharmacy options.
Questions for your prescriber: Are there safer alternatives for me? How long should I try flibanserin? What interactions should I avoid? These short questions help make the treatment plan clear and safe.
Flibanserin can help some women, but it’s not right for everyone. Talk openly with your clinician about goals, risks, and other ways to address low desire, including counseling and lifestyle changes.