Flibanserin (Addyi): A Practical Guide for Women

Flibanserin (Addyi) is a prescription medicine for premenopausal women who have hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). It aims to increase desire when no other medical, psychiatric, or relationship causes explain the low libido. Flibanserin works on brain chemicals — serotonin and dopamine — to shift the balance toward sexual interest. It’s not an aphrodisiac or a "one-time" pill; you take it every night.

Most people start to see changes after about four to eight weeks, but the benefit is generally modest.

Doctors usually prescribe 100 mg once nightly at bedtime

Taking flibanserin during the day raises the risk of dizziness and fainting, so stick to bedtime dosing. Never combine it with alcohol — the mix can cause severe low blood pressure and fainting.

Side effects you should watch for include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, fatigue, and low blood pressure. If you have liver problems, flibanserin is not recommended. Also avoid it if you take strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like certain antifungals, some antibiotics, or HIV protease inhibitors. Grapefruit juice can raise levels too; skip it while on treatment.

Before you start, talk openly with your doctor about your symptoms, relationship context, and other medications, including herbal supplements. Some mental health drugs can blunt sexual desire, and treating those causes first may be wiser than adding medication. Your provider can help set realistic expectations and monitor safety.

If you’re considering buying flibanserin online, treat the purchase like any other prescription drug: you need a valid prescription. Use pharmacies that require a prescription, display a physical address, and show verification from a licensing body. If a website offers flibanserin without asking for a prescription, don’t use it. Our guide on verifying online pharmacies has a checklist that helps spot risky sites and find reputable options.

Practical tips to get the most from treatment: track your symptoms with a simple diary to share with your doctor, avoid alcohol and grapefruit, and give the medication at least two months before judging its effect. If dizziness or severe drowsiness occur, stop and call your provider.

If you miss a dose, do not double up; skip the missed one and take the next dose at bedtime

Flibanserin won’t fix complex relationship issues on its own. Consider counseling or couples therapy if emotional or relationship problems are part of the picture. Behavioral strategies, better sleep, exercise, and stress management can also help sexual desire and work well alongside medical treatment.

If cost or access is a concern, ask your provider about manufacturer programs, coupons, or legitimate online pharmacies with good reviews and proper licensing. When in doubt, get a second opinion from a sexual health specialist.

Common questions: Can you become pregnant while on flibanserin? The drug hasn't been studied in pregnancy, so tell your provider if you are pregnant or planning to be. Flibanserin doesn't prevent sexually transmitted infections or replace birth control. Ask your doctor any specific questions.