FDA Expands Libido Drug Addyi's Approval to Postmenopausal Women
U.S. health officials have approved Addyi, a libido-boosting drug, for postmenopausal women over 65. This expands its use from premenopausal women, despite its history of modest sales and side effects.
Overview
U.S. health officials have expanded the approval of Addyi, a libido-boosting drug, to include postmenopausal women over 65, broadening its market a decade after its initial approval for premenopausal women.
Addyi, developed by Sprout Pharmaceuticals, was initially anticipated to be a major success in women's health but has consistently underperformed in sales since its 2015 approval.
The drug carries a boxed warning against alcohol use due to risks of dangerously low blood pressure and fainting, and common side effects include dizziness and nausea.
The FDA initially rejected Addyi twice due to modest effectiveness and side effects, approving it in 2015 after a lobbying campaign highlighted female libido treatment as a women's rights issue.
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder, affecting many American women, has driven pharmaceutical investment in treatments, with doctors needing to rule out other causes before prescribing such medications.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally, presenting a balanced account of the FDA's expanded approval for Addyi. They provide factual information about the drug's use, side effects, and market performance, while also including critical perspectives on its efficacy and the underlying medical diagnosis. The reporting avoids loaded language and offers comprehensive context.