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Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Ob/Gyn Salena Zanotti, MD, sees it all the time in her practice: “It’s probably one of the top questions I get asked, and it’s common in adults of all ages.” We know that Viagra® can help men perform between the sheets. Dr. Zanotti clears up what Viagra does, and doesn’t do, for women, and what options are available for you. Technically, yes, women can take Viagra (also known by the generic name sildenafil). But the U.S.

Does Viagra help women?

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t approved it for use by women. “Viagra is approved for treating erectile dysfunction, nothing more,” Dr. Zanotti clarifies. “It hasn’t proven to be the answer for sexual dysfunction outside of that.” Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the genitals.

Product	Dosage	Quantity + Bonus	Price
Kamagra Oral Jelly	100mg	63 + 7 Sachets	224.18€ 213.50€	Buy
Kamagra Polo	100mg	84 + 4 Pills	244.49€ 232.85€	Buy
Viagra Generic	100mg	180 + 8 Pills	199.37€ 189.88€	Buy
Viagra Generic	25mg	360 + 10 Pills	213.68€ 203.50€	Buy
Viagra Generic	200mg	90 + 6 Pills	170.79€ 162.66€	Buy
Kamagra Polo	100mg	180 + 8 Pills	446.52€ 425.26€	Buy
Viagra Generic	200mg	30 + 2 Pills	83.07€ 79.11€	Buy
Kamagra Oral Jelly	100mg	21 Sachets	95.92€ 91.35€	Buy
Viagra Generic	25mg	10 Pills	25.19€ 23.99€	Buy
Kamagra	100mg	84 + 6 Pills	264.44€ 251.85€	Buy

For men with erectile dysfunction, that’s a game-changer.

4. Bottom Line

Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Ob/Gyn Salena Zanotti, MD, sees it all the time in her practice: “It’s probably one of the top questions I get asked, and it’s common in adults of all ages.” We know that Viagra® can help men perform between the sheets. Dr. Zanotti clears up what Viagra does, and doesn’t do, for women, and what options are available for you.

Vyleesi (bremelanotide)

Technically, yes, women can take Viagra (also known by the generic name sildenafil). But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t approved it for use by women. “Viagra is approved for treating erectile dysfunction, nothing more,” Dr. Zanotti clarifies.

Biochemical Factors Modulating Female Genital Sexual Arousal Physiology

“It hasn’t proven to be the answer for sexual dysfunction outside of that.” Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the genitals. For men with erectile dysfunction, that’s a game-changer. In women, Viagra may increase blood flow to the vulva and vaginal tissues, which could enhance your pleasure by heightening your sensitivity and promoting lubrication. Some women taking Viagra may find that having sex is more pleasurable. (And who can argue with that as a perk?) But that’s not true for everyone. In women, Viagra may increase blood flow to the vulva and vaginal tissues, which could enhance your pleasure by heightening your sensitivity and promoting lubrication. Some women taking Viagra may find that having sex is more pleasurable. (And who can argue with that as a perk?) But that’s not true for everyone. Some women taking Viagra may experience side effects like: If you have low blood pressure or you’re taking blood pressure medication, Viagra can cause a further drop that may lead to dizziness and even fainting.

Is Viagra an Option for Female Sexual Dysfunction?

And mixing Viagra and alcohol is a big no-no because it can worsen the side effects, Dr. Zanotti warns. While Viagra might work on the physical side of things, other FDA-approved treatments can help women with other issues, like sexual desire. “Viagra might help some women with the physical mechanics of sex, but it’s not going to help with other things that keep you from being ‘in the mood,’” Dr. Zanotti points out. No pill is going to make sure the laundry is done, the kids are asleep, or that you’re feeling confident in yourself and your relationship. But Dr. Zanotti notes a few medications that sildenafil price ireland may help increase your interest in sex: Addyi® (flibanserin): A daily pill for premenopausal women with low sexual desire.

Region	Cost Range per Dose	Availability	Notes
North America	$10-$25	Prescription only	Off-label use limited
Europe	€8-€20	Prescription, some OTC in countries	Varies widely
Asia	$5-$15	Often available OTC or via clinics	Cost-effective options
Australia	$15-$30	Prescription only	Under medical supervision

It affects brain chemicals tied to libido. Like Viagra, it can lower blood pressure and shouldn’t be taken with alcohol. Vyleesi® (bremelanotide): A self-injection that you use before sex. It’s approved only for premenopausal women whose low libido isn’t caused by another health condition. Wellbutrin® (bupropion): An antidepressant that may help improve libido, especially if your low sex drive is related to depression or SSRI use. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): This may help improve vaginal dryness and restore sexual comfort (thus, boosting libido) for women going through menopause. Testosterone therapy: This can be prescribed to treat low libido in women entering menopause and in the years that follow. Sometimes, sexual dysfunction isn’t about biology — it’s about everything else going on in your life that puts sex on the back burner. “Sexual health in women is about more than just blood flow,” Dr. Zanotti says. “It’s about your mental health, your relationship, how comfortable you feel in your body and so much more.” Here are a few strategies that may help: If sex is painful, pelvic floor physical therapy may help. As you get older, vaginal tissue becomes drier and less elastic. Using lubricants or vaginal moisturizers, particularly after menopause, can help can make sex more pleasurable.

Efficacy of Sildenafil Citrate on Female Sexual Dysfunction in A Sample of Egyptian Females, A Prospective Placebo Controlled Study

Some women taking Viagra may experience side effects like: If you have low blood pressure or you’re taking blood pressure medication, Viagra can cause a further drop that may lead to dizziness and even fainting. And mixing Viagra and alcohol is a big no-no because it can worsen the side effects, Dr. Zanotti warns. While Viagra might work on the physical side of things, other FDA-approved treatments can help women with other issues, like sexual desire. “Viagra might help some women with the physical mechanics of sex, but it’s not going to help with other things that keep you from being ‘in the mood,’” Dr.

Competing interests

Zanotti points out. No pill is going to make sure the laundry is done, the kids are asleep, or that you’re feeling confident in yourself and your relationship. But Dr. Zanotti notes a few medications that sildenafil price ireland may help increase your interest in sex: Addyi® (flibanserin): A daily pill for premenopausal women with low sexual desire. It affects brain chemicals tied to libido.

Related treatment guides

Like Viagra, it can lower blood pressure and shouldn’t be taken with alcohol. Vyleesi® (bremelanotide): A self-injection that you use before sex. It’s approved only for premenopausal women whose low libido isn’t caused by another health condition. Wellbutrin® (bupropion): An antidepressant that may help improve libido, especially if your low sex drive is related to depression or SSRI use. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): This may help improve vaginal dryness and restore sexual comfort (thus, boosting libido) for women going through menopause. Prioritize exercise, manage stress and sleep — they can all affect your sex drive more than you might think.

Sildenafil Arousal Cream FAQs

Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more. The steroid medication may raise your blood pressure and cause heart palpitations Lower your risk by sticking to the right dose and avoiding long-term use without medical guidance Authorized take-back programs, services and drop-off locations are the best, safest way to get rid of expired medicine These illegal supplements have negative impacts for vital organs and may cause psychosis, heart attacks and more Popular among teens, these inhalants give you a quick high, with serious harmful effects ‘Black box warnings’ on medications outline potential risks and important instructions These similar versions of brand-name drugs are safe, effective and often less expensive Though these painkillers work in different ways, they can both help reduce a fever and pain These tiny saltwater larvae can get trapped under your swimsuit and trigger an itchy reaction called seabather’s eruption Searching nature for edible items requires training and knowledge to avoid poisonous plants Yes, but you can protect yourself with hats, scarves or even hair sunblock Aging WellAllergiesCancer Care & PreventionChronic PainCold, Flu & Respiratory IllnessesDiabetes & EndocrinologyDigestiveEar, Nose & ThroatEye CareInfectious DiseaseLungOral HealthParentingPregnancy & ChildbirthRecipesRheumatology & ImmunologySenior HealthSex & RelationshipsSleepUrinary & Kidney HealthWeight Loss Rendered: Mon May 25 2026 22:05:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Treatment-emergent sexual dysfunction is a frequent adverse effect occurring with medication use and is a major influence for premature discontinuation of antidepressant treatment, which leads to treatment failure and costly disease management outcomes. Sexual dysfunction is recognized as being associated with selective and nonselective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) antidepressants, which are the most frequently prescribed medications for outpatients aged 18 to 65 years and represent 90% of the 180 million antidepressant prescriptions filled in the United States.1 Antidepressant treatment–associated sexual dysfunction is estimated to occur in 30% to 70% of men and women treated for major depression with first- or second-generation agents,2 a principal reason for a 3-fold increased risk of nonadherence that approaches 70% in the first months of treatment and leads to increased relapse, recurrence, disability, and resource utilization by affected patients.3 However, the literature in this field is less developed for women with more highly variable prevalence rates and less conclusive data compared with men. In women, sexual dysfunction is associated with decreased sexual interest, genital sensitivity, and vaginal lubrication; delayed or absent orgasm; dyspareunia; reduced sexual activity; and overall dissatisfaction or loss of pleasure in sexual relations. Among the numerous strategies proposed for managing sexual dysfunction associated with SRI treatment, selective phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, which have been limited to studies involving men, have demonstrated the best evidence-based data to support broad-based and clinically meaningful treatment efficacy.4 However, to our knowledge, no randomized controlled trial (RCT) has demonstrated effectiveness for women experiencing sexual dysfunction associated with SRI treatment.

Increased genital blood flow

Compared with men, women are prescribed antidepressants at rates of 2 to 1 and can be expected to represent a significant number of patients needing relief.5 Without evidence-based data to treat sexual function associated with SRIs in women, clinicians may lack the confidence to manage it effectively, which leaves patients exposed to excess random pharmacology.6 Although sexual dysfunction is a major influence in determining the selection or switching of antidepressants, it is frequently overlooked because clinicians fail to inquire, misattribute it as a symptom of depression that will improve with treatment, or because 80% of women do not discuss adverse sexual effects with their physician.7,8 Sexual dysfunction associated with SRIs is dose related, usually occurs early in treatment, and rarely remits spontaneously. Selective phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil), which are effective and well tolerated for treatment of erectile dysfunction in men,9 including men with depression10 and associated with SRI treatment,11 are not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for women with sexual dysfunction. However, interest in their potential use in women was encouraged by reports that nitric oxide synthase isoforms, nitric oxide, and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are present in female genital tissue, and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor enhancement of nitric oxide–cyclic guanosine monophosphate in nonadrenergic-noncholinergic signaling for women seems similar to men.12 When several trials involving premenopausal and postmenopausal women treated with sildenafil failed to demonstrate significant improvements for sexual arousal disorder,13 the manufacturer abandoned pursuit of FDA approval for treating women. Subsequent RCTs narrowed their focus on more specific hormonal factors and demonstrated efficacy with improved frequency of sexual intercourse, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction. One trial involved premenopausal women with sexual arousal disorder but with normal sexual desire.

Recent advances in female sexual dysfunction

They were randomized to receive 1 of 3 treatments: 25 mg or 50 mg of sildenafil or placebo.14 A protocol-specified trial involved premenopausal or postmenopausal women with sexual arousal disorder without concomitant hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Talk with a therapist, especially one who specializes in sexual health or trauma, if your low sex drive is related to things like mental health concerns, past sexual trauma or negative body image.

• Research shows mixed results on sildenafil's benefits for women.
• It may improve sexual satisfaction in some women.
• Not recommended for women with cardiovascular conditions.
• Using sildenafil without medical advice is risky.

Have an open conversation with your healthcare provider. They can help you identify the cause and explore personalized solutions. Viagra might sound like a quick fix, but it rarely is. Because the research hasn’t proven that it’s beneficial for women, most healthcare providers consider it a last resort — not a first-line treatment. While it may improve physical arousal for some, Viagra doesn’t directly impact desire. If you’re struggling with low libido, you’re not alone, and real help is available.

• Some studies have shown mild improvements in female sexual distress.
• The drug may help women with orgasmic disorder by increasing sensation.
• Women should report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare professional.
• Alternative treatments include counseling and hormonal therapy.

Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more.

More about sildenafil

The steroid medication may raise your blood pressure and cause heart palpitations Lower your risk by sticking to the right dose and avoiding long-term use without medical guidance Authorized take-back programs, services and drop-off locations are the best, safest way to get rid of expired medicine These illegal supplements have negative impacts for vital organs and may cause psychosis, heart attacks and more Popular among teens, these inhalants give you a quick high, with serious harmful effects ‘Black box warnings’ on medications outline potential risks and important instructions These similar versions of brand-name drugs are safe, effective and often less expensive Though these painkillers work in different ways, they can both help reduce a fever and pain These tiny saltwater larvae can get trapped under your swimsuit and trigger an itchy reaction called seabather’s eruption Searching nature for edible items requires training and knowledge to avoid poisonous plants Yes, but you can protect yourself with hats, scarves or even hair sunblock Aging WellAllergiesCancer Care & PreventionChronic PainCold, Flu & Respiratory IllnessesDiabetes & EndocrinologyDigestiveEar, Nose & ThroatEye CareInfectious DiseaseLungOral HealthParentingPregnancy & ChildbirthRecipesRheumatology & ImmunologySenior HealthSex & RelationshipsSleepUrinary & Kidney HealthWeight Loss Rendered: Mon May 25 2026 22:05:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Treatment-emergent sexual dysfunction is a frequent adverse effect occurring with medication use and is a major influence for premature discontinuation of antidepressant treatment, which leads to treatment failure and costly disease management outcomes. Sexual dysfunction is recognized as being associated with selective and nonselective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) antidepressants, which are the most frequently prescribed medications for outpatients aged 18 to 65 years and represent 90% of the 180 million antidepressant prescriptions filled in the United States.1 Antidepressant treatment–associated sexual dysfunction is estimated to occur in 30% to 70% of men and women treated for major depression with first- or second-generation agents,2 a principal reason for a 3-fold increased risk of nonadherence that approaches 70% in the first months of treatment and leads to increased relapse, recurrence, disability, and resource utilization by affected patients.3 However, the literature in this field is less developed for women with more highly variable prevalence rates and less conclusive data compared with men.

What other information should I know?

Testosterone therapy: This can be prescribed to treat low libido in women entering menopause and in the years that follow. Sometimes, sexual dysfunction isn’t about biology — it’s about everything else going on in your life that puts sex on the back burner. “Sexual health in women is about more than just blood flow,” Dr. Zanotti says. “It’s about your mental health, your relationship, how comfortable you feel in your body and so much more.” Here are a few strategies that may help: If sex is painful, pelvic floor physical therapy may help.

Inclusion Criteria

As you get older, vaginal tissue becomes drier and less elastic. Using lubricants or vaginal moisturizers, particularly after menopause, can help can make sex more pleasurable. Prioritize exercise, manage stress and sleep — they can all affect your sex drive more than you might think. Talk with a therapist, especially one who specializes in sexual health or trauma, if your low sex drive is related to things like mental health concerns, past sexual trauma or negative body image. Have an open conversation with your healthcare provider.

Comparison table

They can help you identify the cause and explore personalized solutions. Viagra might sound like a quick fix, but it rarely is. Because the research hasn’t proven that it’s beneficial for women, most healthcare providers consider it a last resort — not a first-line treatment. While it may improve physical arousal for some, Viagra doesn’t directly impact desire. If you’re struggling with low libido, you’re not alone, and real help is available. In women, sexual dysfunction is associated with decreased sexual interest, genital sensitivity, and vaginal lubrication; delayed or absent orgasm; dyspareunia; reduced sexual activity; and overall dissatisfaction or loss of pleasure in sexual relations. Among the numerous strategies proposed for managing sexual dysfunction associated with SRI treatment, selective phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, which have been limited to studies involving men, have demonstrated the best evidence-based data to support broad-based and clinically meaningful treatment efficacy.4 However, to our knowledge, no randomized controlled trial (RCT) has demonstrated effectiveness for women experiencing sexual dysfunction associated with SRI treatment. Compared with men, women are prescribed antidepressants at rates of 2 to 1 and can be expected to represent a significant number of patients needing relief.5 Without evidence-based data to treat sexual function associated with SRIs in women, clinicians may lack the confidence to manage it effectively, which leaves patients exposed to excess random pharmacology.6 Although sexual dysfunction is a major influence in determining the selection or switching of antidepressants, it is frequently overlooked because clinicians fail to inquire, misattribute it as a symptom of depression that will improve with treatment, or because 80% of women do not discuss adverse sexual effects with their physician.7,8 Sexual dysfunction associated with SRIs is dose related, usually occurs early in treatment, and rarely remits spontaneously.

• Sildenafil is being studied for female sexual dysfunction.
• It may improve blood flow to vaginal tissues.
• Not officially approved for women in many countries.
• Side effects can include headaches and flushing.

Selective phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil), which are effective and well tolerated for treatment of erectile dysfunction in men,9 including men with depression10 and associated with SRI treatment,11 are not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for women with sexual dysfunction. However, interest in their potential use in women was encouraged by reports that nitric oxide synthase isoforms, nitric oxide, and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are present in female genital tissue, and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor enhancement of nitric oxide–cyclic guanosine monophosphate in nonadrenergic-noncholinergic signaling for women seems similar to men.12 When several trials involving premenopausal and postmenopausal women treated with sildenafil failed to demonstrate significant improvements for sexual arousal disorder,13 the manufacturer abandoned pursuit of FDA approval for treating women. Subsequent RCTs narrowed their focus on more specific hormonal factors and demonstrated efficacy with improved frequency of sexual intercourse, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction. One trial involved premenopausal women with sexual arousal disorder but with normal sexual desire. They were randomized to receive 1 of 3 treatments: 25 mg or 50 mg of sildenafil or placebo.14 A protocol-specified trial involved premenopausal or postmenopausal women with sexual arousal disorder without concomitant hypoactive sexual desire disorder.