Viagra for Women being trialed in Australia

Researchers at Monash University are looking to recruit women from Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Adelaide to take part in a new drug trial for the treatment of anorgasmia. The drug trial, which hopes to provide some relief to women who are unable to climax, is also taking place in the US and Canada.

Reaching orgasm remains elusive for nearly 30 per cent of women. One of the most common female sexual complaints, anorgasmia can be either a life-long problem or acquired.

The condition is often attributed to psychological factors however, anorgasmia can also develop as the result of a medical condition, physical injury, some medications, or illicit drug use. Despite up to one-third of women being affected, the only treatments currently available are psychotherapy and sex therapy.

Researchers at Monash University, led by Professor Susan Davis of the Women’s Health Group, are now testing the effectiveness of a testosterone-based ‘as required’, rather than ongoing, treatment for anorgasmia, which will work like Viagra for women.

Rather than a long-term, therapy-based approach, this drug can be taken when a woman anticipates sexual activity,” Professor Davis said. “We have previously shown that for women with low sexual interest, testosterone therapy not only improves sexual desire and arousal, but also enhances a woman’s ability to reach orgasm.”

The treatment would be administered in droplet sized doses via the nostrils and will be effective from two hours after it is administered, for up to six hours. With both neurological and vascular effects, it is anticipated the drug will be effective in the context of sexual activity, but will have no ill-effects if the activity doesn’t take place.

Professor Davis says sexual dysfunction has important health implications for women.

“Through previous research, we have shown that women under 50, who are not experiencing sexual pleasure will still participate in sexual activity on average five times per month, primarily to maintain relationship harmony,” she said.

“Further, we have shown that women who report poor sexual functioning have lower wellbeing, despite not being depressed. Doctors have little to offer women who are experiencing anorgasmia, and this could be a breakthrough study for women who currently are frustrated by the lack of any treatment option.”

Researchers from Monash University are hoping to recruit pre-menopausal women from Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Adelaide to take part in the trial. Participants must be aged 18 to 49 and have experienced anorgasmia.

Those interested in participating in the trial should call 1800 998 055.

The research is supported by Trimel Biopharma SRL Canada, which developed the drug.