FDA Approval of Flibanserin — Treating Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

HSDD  (Hypo-active Sexual Desire Disorder) is characterized by reduced sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity that causes marked distress or interpersonal difficulty and is not accounted for by coexisting conditions, use of medications, or relationship problems. At a 2014 meeting, the FDA heard from some women about the condition's effects on their sense of identity, emotional well-being, and relationships.1
Although nonpharmacologic approaches to HSDD are important, we recognized that some women could benefit from drug therapy. Such treatments must meet the statutory standard for demonstration of effectiveness (substantial evidence from adequate, well-controlled trials) and have favorable benefit–risk profiles. Assessing flibanserin has proven challenging; the drug has been reviewed three times by the FDA and discussed twice at public advisory committee meetings.