If you think Viagra for women is the same blue pill that works the exact way it does for men, you might be mistaken. While the idea sounds pretty straightforward, female bodies are much more complex and require a nuanced approach.
But if Viagra improves erections in men by increasing blood flow, could it also help women similarly? The answer is not a simple yes or no. Sildenafil Citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra, is often prescribed off-label to women with low sex drive, arousal disorder or difficulty with orgasm. But most females are unsure if it is actually safe and effective for such use.
In this blog, you will learn whether Viagra works for women or not and how it differs from its use in men. You will also learn about several herbal alternatives, as well as medications that are prescribed to boost low sexual desire and arousal in Female Sexual Arousal Dysfunction (FSAD).
Is there a Viagra for women?
No, there is no FDA-approved female Viagra or Viagra for women, per se. Viagra is a brand-name Sildenafil medication manufactured by Pfizer Inc., USA. It has been approved to treat Erectile Dysfunction in men and not for sexual dysfunction in women.
That said, doctors sometimes prescribe Sildenafil off-label for women in select cases of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) and FSAD. It is usually advised when physical arousal response, such as genital blood flow or lubrication, appears to be the primary issue. It may also be prescribed when women face difficulty achieving orgasm (Anorgasmia) or painful intercourse (Dyspareunia).
Since female sexual concerns often involve hormonal, psychological, and relational factors as well, this blood flow improvement medication is not a foolproof solution. And, thus, there isn’t a reliable Viagra for women as there is for better erections in men.
Any use of Sildenafil for women or Assigned Females At Birth should thus be guided by a qualified healthcare professional only.
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Does Viagra (Sildenafil) work for women?
Yes, Sildenafil Citrate in Viagra works for several women by increasing blood flow to the clitoris and surrounding genital tissues. It belongs to the class of Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which block the PDE5 enzyme. This increases Nitric Oxide signaling and improves blood flow. Upon sexual stimulation, it can lead to increased sensitivity, mild clitoral swelling, and improved lubrication.
However, it is not approved for such use yet. Research on off-label Sildenafil use has also seen some mixed results.
- A small clinical trial published in 2022 found that 50 mg Sildenafil showed decent improvement in female sexual function, particularly in orgasms, compared to their baseline scores.
- Likewise, a comparative study in 2016 proved Sildenafil was more effective than Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in improving arousal, lubrication, and orgasm difficulties in women. However, the same study found that therapy showed greater improvement in overall sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction.
Thus, Sildenafil can help manage Female Sexual Dysfunction in some cases. Consult a healthcare professional for a prescription with the most appropriate dose and usage guidance for your symptoms.
Is Viagra safe for women?
The safety profile of Viagra (off-label Sildenafil) in women is not as well established as it is in men. However, when used under medical guidance, it is generally well-tolerated.
Some commonly reported side effects include:
- Headache
- Facial flushing
- Nasal congestion
- Indigestion or upset stomach
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Blurred or blue-tinted vision
These are usually mild and temporary. Rarely, it can cause a severe drop in blood pressure (Hypotension), fainting, chest pain or allergic reactions requiring medical attention.
Thus, Sildenafil should not be used by women who take nitrates, certain blood pressure medications, or antidepressants. It should also be avoided in cases of uncontrolled Hypertension (High Blood Pressure), severe liver or kidney impairment and unstable cardiovascular conditions.
Best Viagra alternatives for women
Since Viagra is not approved for Female Sexual Dysfunction, treatment depends on the underlying cause, such as low desire, difficulty with arousal, hormonal changes, medication side effects, or psychological factors.
Some popular and clinically recognized Viagra alternatives are discussed below.
Off-label Sildenafil options for women
Some clinicians prescribe Sildenafil off-label for women who primarily experience physical arousal difficulties, especially when genital blood flow is the main issue.
- Lovegra (Sildenafil 100 mg): Marketed as Female Viagra, it helps improve physical sexual arousal in women by increasing blood flow to the genitals. Lovegra is usually taken 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity and should not be used more than once in 24 hours.
- Femalegra (Sildenafil 100 mg): This pink libido pill relaxes blood vessels to enhance genital blood flow and lubrication. It is taken on demand (an hour) before intercourse and requires sexual arousal to be effective.
FDA-approved medications for low sexual desire
For women diagnosed with specific types of sexual desire disorders, the FDA has approved two prescription treatments.
- Addyi (Flibanserin): This daily oral medication is prescribed for premenopausal women diagnosed with HSDD. It works on brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, rather than on blood flow. It can cause dizziness and fainting, especially if combined with alcohol.
- Vyleesi (Bremelanotide): It is an injectable medication approved for premenopausal women with acquired, generalized HSDD. It is injected under the skin of the abdomen or thigh about 45 minutes before intercourse. Since it can temporarily increase blood pressure, it is not suitable for women with uncontrolled Hypertension.
Non-medication strategies for female sexual health
Because female sexual concerns are often multifactorial, addressing underlying stress, relationship dynamics, and overall health provides more sustainable improvement than medication alone.
For better long-term outcomes,
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques and get proper sleep.
- Practice Kegel exercises to train your pelvic floor muscles.
- Explore libido-boosting supplements such as maca root and Tribulus terrestris.
- Seek hormonal therapy when deemed appropriate by your doctor.
- Treat Anxiety, Depression or other mental-health concerns.
- Address vaginal dryness or pain with lubricants or gels.
- Take relationship counseling or sex therapy, if needed.
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Conclusion
There is no FDA-approved Viagra for women or a female Viagra that works exactly like male Viagra. However, the active ingredient, Sildenafil, can help women with physical arousal concerns, by improving blood flow, sensitivity and lubrication, but it does not directly increase libido or desire.
For diagnosed Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, FDA-approved treatments like Addyi (oral tablet) or Vyleesi (injectable medication) are the most suitable option. Moreover, lifestyle changes and herbal supplements like ginseng and saffron can also help with low libido over time.
Since Sildenafil (Lovegra or Femalegra) alone does not address emotional, hormonal, or relationship factors that often contribute to sexual difficulties, you might still require counseling or hormonal therapy. So, if you are experiencing low desire, difficulty getting aroused, or sexual discomfort, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Viagra for men and women?
Viagra is FDA-approved for Erectile Dysfunction in men, and it improves penile blood flow for firmer erections. In women, Sildenafil (active salt in Viagra) is used off-label to help increase genital blood flow. Since results have been inconsistent and the safety profile is not well-established, medical supervision is strongly recommended.
Can women take Viagra for men?
No, women cannot and should not take Viagra for men, as it is not FDA-approved for Female Sexual Dysfunction. However, they can take Sildenafil (active salt in Viagra) pills for arousal or blood flow issues, but only under medical supervision.
Can I get Viagra for women over the counter?
No, Viagra (containing Sildenafil) is not available over the counter and is prescribed to men with Erectile Dysfunction. You can, however, buy Sildenafil-based medications formulated for women with a valid prescription. Be cautious of pharmacies or online sellers claiming no-prescription tablets, as these products may be unregulated and unsafe.
Where can I buy Viagra for women online?
You can buy Viagra for women, meaning Sildenafil-based medications, from online pharmacies like GoodRxMedicine. But only after a doctor prescribes it based on your age, sexual disorder and overall health.
Is there a natural female Viagra?
Though there is no proven natural equivalent to Viagra, some supplements like saffron, maca, Tribulus terrestris, and ginseng have shown promising results in treating Female Sexual Dysfunction. Due to limited clinical evidence, always consult a healthcare provider for safe dosing and usage.
How fast does Sildenafil cream for women work?
Sildenafil cream may begin working within 15 minutes of use, but it is not FDA-approved. Topical Sildenafil formulations (3.6%) have shown increased sexual arousal, desire, and orgasm in exploratory studies so far and continue to be researched further.
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