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by Robert MacKay, Sunday, 18 August 2013 | Categories: Female Sexual Dysfunction

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not been any treatments that have reached the status required to market such a product (other than Intrinsa, which was withdrawn for commercial reasons).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.





 
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