Study summary · research use only
Pharmacotherapy for Sexual Dysfunction in Women
Plain-language summary
Paraphrased from the published abstract below — not a verdict on whether anything works.
This review discusses the DSM-5 conceptualization and diagnostic criteria for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in women and summarizes recent studies on treatments for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD), and genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPD). Topics covered include the process of care for pre- and postmenopausal women with HSDD, a position statement on testosterone therapy in women, updates on vaginal estrogen for genitourinary syndrome of menopause and bremelanotide for HSDD, removal of the flibanserin alcohol REMS program, and new technology for drug bioavailability and brain delivery. The authors state the DSM-5's combining of HSDD and FSAD into one diagnostic category may less accurately characterize these as separate disorders. The review describes a range of treatment options offered based on symptoms, potential benefits/risks, and preferences.
Abstract
This review article discusses the controversy in the DSM-5 conceptualization and diagnostic criteria for female sexual dysfunction (FSD). An overview of recent studies on available treatments for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD), and genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPD) is provided. Include delineation of the process of care for pre- and postmenopausal women with HSDD; release of global position statement on testosterone therapy in women; updates on efficacy and safety of vaginal estrogen for genitourinary syndrome of menopause and bremelanotide for HSDD; removal of flibanserin alcohol REMS; and development of new technology to enhance bioavailability and brain delivery of treatments. The DSM-5 revision combining HSDD and FSAD into one diagnostic category is a less accurate characterization of these separate disorders and may hinder access to demonstrated effective treatments for the women with these conditions. There are a wide range of pharmacological, other physiological, and psychological treatment options available for women with FSD, which can be offered based on their specific symptoms, potential benefits/risks, and preferences.
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