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    New drug approved for treating low libido in women

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The Food and Drug Administration recently approved Vyleesi (bremelanotide) to help women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder, or low libido, which affects 8% to 10% of all women. The new drug, which will be available in September, has been referred to as “female Viagra.” However, that's a misnomer. Viagra works on blood vessels; whereas, Vyleesi acts on brain receptors.

Vyleesi is intended to treat low sexual desire that is not due to existing medical or psychiatric conditions, problems within the relationship, or the effects of a medication or other drug substance. Patients using Vyleesi will inject themselves under the skin of the abdomen or thigh at least 45 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. 

On the next Mayo Clinic Radio program, Dr. Stephanie Faubion, an internal medicine physician and the Bill and Penny George Director, Center for Women's Health at Mayo Clinic, will discuss Vyleesi. She'll also have a warning about over-the-counter treatments for menopause symptoms. Also on the program, Dr. Erica Knavel Koepsel, a Mayo Clinic diagnostic radiologist, will explain treatment options for uterine fibroids. And Dr. Peter Rhee, a Mayo Clinic orthopedic surgeon, will explain surgical treatment options for upper motor neuron syndrome. Dr. Rhee's patient, Bret Dzubay and his father, John Dzubay, will join the conversation to share how surgery has improved the quality of life for Bret Dzubay, who has cerebral palsy

To hear the program, find an affiliate in your area.

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Mayo Clinic Radio produces a weekly one-hour radio program highlighting health and medical information from Mayo Clinic.

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