Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormones are a critical component of healthy sexual function in women. Decreased levels of the hormone estrogen in women normally occurs as a result of aging. Lower estrogen levels are associated with diminished genital sensation as well as inadequate vaginal lubrication. Additionally, low levels of the hormone testosterone can add to sexual arousal decrease, genital sensitivity. One form of treatment for female sexual dysfunction is hormone replacement therapy, which is prescribed in order to bring hormones to the appropriate healthy levels
PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil) have already been well established for the treatment of erectile dysfunction by increasing greater blood delivery to the genitals in men. Recent clinical studies on women, have revealed that sildenafil substantially increased clitoral blood flow, heightened sexual arousal and improved ability to achieve orgasm.
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is the newest drug for female sexual dysfunction and has been shown to increase sexual arousal by stimulating the hypothalamus to release dopamine.