239 Sexual and Non-sexual Improvements in Women with HSDD: Personal Experiences with Flibanserin Treatment

Abstract

As of October 2015 women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) have an FDA approved prescription medication available for treatment, flibanserin (Addyi). Pivotal clinical trials show a 40-60% response rate. With more than 130 of our patients prescribed flibanserin for HSDD, we retrospectively reviewed the personal reflections of those who responded favorably. Patients currently prescribed flibanserin were asked to share their experiences with the medication by email in an attempt to follow their progress. Responses were collected and later examined for responsivity to flibanserin, and for themes with regards to response time to the drug, short-term improvements, longer-term changes, and other general observations. Testimonials from 39 responders were analyzed. Average time to experiencing positive change in HSDD symptoms was 6 weeks (range 10 days-16 weeks). Responsive users have been on the drug for an average of 4 months (range 1-8 months). Improvements in HSDD symptoms were both sexual and non-sexual. Regarding HSDD, overall changes included increases in: sexual responsiveness, sexual thoughts/dreams, initiation of sexual activity, positive anticipation, articulation of sexual desires, and decreased inhibition from sexual Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) related to physical and emotional abuse, trauma and previous sexual pain experiences. With regards to other non-HSDD sexual responses, respondents noted: intensified and/or faster lubrication/arousal, increased clitoral engorgement, stronger or increased number of orgasms, and enhanced sexual satisfaction. Non-sexual responses involved improved relationships including partners being more attentive, and mood changes such as having fun, feeling more alive, feeling less stressed and general happiness. One woman reported having “reignited her sexual self.” In addition, most respondents lost several pounds of weight, and most slept better. Some stopped all alcohol intake but others continued without consequences. No serious adverse events were noted.