In the past we have discussed a
range of treatments aimed at enhancing female libido, such as a nasal sprays
and gels to enhance testosterone levels. However, to date there have not been
any treatments that have reached the status required to market such a product
(other than Intrinsa, which was withdrawn for commercial reasons). That is why
we were initially hesitant about a new treatment that was the subject of
several recent trials. Yet, it appears to be tackling the issue from a
different angle from most other products being investigated to provide a
solution for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder. Here we consider what is
currently known about the treatment.
The treatment, which goes by the
name Lorexys, is a drug that contains bupropion and trazodone. Those active
ingredients are often used in antidepressants and work by changing the balance
of brain chemicals that play a part in regulating sexual excitation and
inhibition. This is in line with the dominating theoretical model, known as
Kinsey dual control model. According to that model, brain chemicals such as
serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine inhibit and activate sexual activation in
the brain. Therefore, the idea is that an effective treatment is possible if we
are able to establish the precise ratio between the active ingredients and the
brain chemicals.
Although this model seems
straightforward, the process of finding the precise ratios is likely to be
arduous. We currently know that several antidepressants, which have taken
decades to develop, can cause sexual side effects that include lowered sexual
drive. In addition to that, even if the team is certain that they have found
the appropriate ratio, dosage will still remain an issue that needs to be
investigated before the treatment is marketed. Similarly, we do not yet know
anything about the time it takes for the treatment to work and whether there
are side effects that may render the treatment unsuitable for some individuals.
On the other hand, there is no
denying that the treatment targets an interesting channel (the brain is the
body’s largest sexual organ after all) and that if it were to be efficacious then
it is likely to have significant implications for the millions of women
suffering from FSD.
In addition to this product,
Flibanserin is another product in the area of medicine that is currently being
considered by the FDA and also targets the brain.