Desire, arousal and erectile function: common causes, how evaluation works, what PT-141 (bremelanotide) is, and how menopause and medications can play a part.
Other topics: Weight Loss · Daily Wellness · Hair & Skin
7 articles
The FDA warns that many sexual enhancement products sold as supplements, honeys, chocolates or "natural" pills contain hidden prescription drug ingredients that can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure and other harm.
Read articleMany common medications, including some antidepressants, blood pressure medicines, hormonal treatments and opioids, can affect desire, arousal, erections or orgasm. Never stop a medication on your own; talk with your prescriber about options.
Read articlePT-141 is bremelanotide, a melanocortin receptor agonist. One FDA-approved product (Vyleesi) treats acquired, generalized low desire in premenopausal women; use in men is off-label, and compounded PT-141 is not FDA-approved.
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Vaginal dryness and painful sex after menopause are usually part of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Lubricants and moisturizers help mild symptoms; low-dose vaginal estrogen and other prescription options treat moderate to severe symptoms.
Read articleLow desire is common and only becomes a clinical concern when it causes distress. Evaluation looks at health, medications, hormones, mood and relationships first; FDA-approved medications exist for specific, diagnosed cases.
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Randomized trials show that weight management and more physical activity can improve sexual function for some men with erectile difficulties and some women with type 2 diabetes. Sleep, smoking and alcohol also matter, though the evidence is less direct.
Read articleErectile difficulties are common, often treatable, and can be an early sign of heart and blood vessel disease. See a licensed provider for new or persistent symptoms, and seek emergency care for an erection lasting more than 4 hours.
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