Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis are all approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, or male impotence. These drugs target an enzyme system that enhances the ability of the penis to engorge with blood and hold the blood.
However, erectile dysfunction is only one component of sexual dysfunction. Other major contributing factors may include a persistent reduction in the sex drive, difficulty in arousal, inability to reach orgasm, and pain during intercourse. Hormone changes, stress, fatigue, and depression are some of the potential causes. Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis will not be helpful for these types of issues.
According to some surveys, up to 50 percent of women in the United States have some form of sexual dysfunction. A number of drugs have been tried to relieve these symptoms in women. Viagra and Levitra have been tried in both pre- and postmenopausal women with sexual dysfunction. The results were not very encouraging.
Because sexual dysfunction can have many causes, I recommend that men and women who have sexual problems speak candidly with their physician or health care provider. While drugs like Levitra may not be the answer for women at the moment, other therapies are available.
Am J Obstet Gynecol. 188(1):286-93, 2003 Jan.
