1
|
Ghamari K, Kashani L, Jafarinia M, Tadayon Najafabadi B, Shokraee K, Esalatmanesh S, Akhondzadeh S. Vitamin E and ginseng supplementation to enhance female sexual function: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial. Women Health 2020; 60:1164-1173. [PMID: 32893745 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2020.1803465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Female sexual disorders (FSD) are a spectrum of disorders common among women, especially in their middle age, which can reduce the female quality of life substantially. We aimed to evaluate the effects of a combined vitamin E and ginseng supplement on amelioration of female sexual dysfunction. In a 6-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, participants, suffering from sexual dysfunction based on the female sexual function index (FSFI) questionnaire, were randomly allocated to receive the supplement (100 IU vitamin E, 67 mg Korean ginseng, and 40 mg Siberian ginseng) or placebo daily. The primary outcome in our trial was the change in the FSFI total score. Sixty-nine participants were enrolled, but only 31 in each group completed the trial. Changes in the FSFI total score and its domain scores were significant during the trial course within each group. However, the supplement only ameliorated desire and satisfaction domains superior to the placebo. In case of the total score and other domains, the changes were insignificantly different between the treatment groups. Although our study could not find additional benefits for the vitamin E and ginseng supplement over placebo in enhancing sexual function overall, the supplement worked better in enhancing sexual desire and satisfaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiandokht Ghamari
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Ladan Kashani
- Infertility Ward, Arash Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Jafarinia
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Borna Tadayon Najafabadi
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamyar Shokraee
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Sophia Esalatmanesh
- Infertility Ward, Arash Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Miller MK, Smith JR, Norman JJ, Clayton AH. Expert opinion on existing and developing drugs to treat female sexual dysfunction. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2018; 23:223-230. [PMID: 30251897 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2018.1527901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a highly prevalent, yet commonly underdiagnosed and undertreated condition. This paper reviews the diagnostic terminology for FSD, and basic sexual physiology in women. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs for FSD are discussed, followed by investigational drugs for FSD currently in phase 2 or 3 clinical trials, reasons for failure of drug development, and potential future drug targets. Areas covered: A literature review was conducted for available treatments for FSD: flibanserin, estrogen, ospemifene and prasterone. Potential treatments are assessed, as was the Pharmaprojects database which includes clinical trial information. Testosterone, bremelanotide, bupropion-trazodone, PDE-5 inhibitors, prostaglandins, tibolone and combination therapies, and the theoretical basis of potential drug targets are discussed. Expert opinion: The lack of established endpoints for phase 3 studies of FSD has impeded approval of new treatments, and required additional studies for validation, resulting in proposed changes to the FDA draft guidance for FSD clinical trials in October 2016. Current DSM-5 diagnostic nosology also fails to capture the full range of symptomology. Several promising compounds have shown no movement for several years limiting women's options. Overcoming socio-cultural bias against women's sexual and reproductive health will be critical in the approval of new treatments for FSD.
Collapse
|
3
|
An international Urogynecological association (IUGA)/international continence society (ICS) joint report on the terminology for the assessment of sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction. Int Urogynecol J 2018; 29:647-666. [DOI: 10.1007/s00192-018-3603-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
4
|
Rogers RG, Pauls RN, Thakar R, Morin M, Kuhn A, Petri E, Fatton B, Whitmore K, Kinsberg S, Lee J. An International Urogynecological Association (IUGA)/International Continence Society (ICS) joint report on the terminology for the assessment of sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction. Neurourol Urodyn 2018; 37:1220-1240. [PMID: 29441607 DOI: 10.1002/nau.23508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The terminology in current use for sexual function and dysfunction in women with pelvic floor disorders lacks uniformity, which leads to uncertainty, confusion, and unintended ambiguity. The terminology for the sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction needs to be collated in a clinically-based consensus report. METHODS This report combines the input of members of the Standardization and Terminology Committees of two International Organizations, the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA), and the International Continence Society (ICS), assisted at intervals by many external referees. Internal and external review was developed to exhaustively examine each definition, with decision-making by collective opinion (consensus). Importantly, this report is not meant to replace, but rather complement current terminology used in other fields for female sexual health and to clarify terms specific to women with pelvic floor dysfunction. RESULTS A clinically based terminology report for sexual health in women with pelvic floor dysfunction encompassing over 100 separate definitions, has been developed. Key aims have been to make the terminology interpretable by practitioners, trainees, and researchers in female pelvic floor dysfunction. Interval review (5-10 years) is anticipated to keep the document updated and as widely acceptable as possible. CONCLUSION A consensus-based terminology report for female sexual health in women with pelvic floor dysfunction has been produced aimed at being a significant aid to clinical practice and a stimulus for research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ranee Thakar
- Croydon University Hospital Croydon, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Annette Kuhn
- University Teaching Hospital Berne (Inselspital), Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Brigitte Fatton
- University Hospital Nîmes, Nimes, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
| | | | | | - Joseph Lee
- University of New South Wales, St Vincents Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kingsberg SA, Althof S, Simon JA, Bradford A, Bitzer J, Carvalho J, Flynn KE, Nappi RE, Reese JB, Rezaee RL, Schover L, Shifrin JL. Female Sexual Dysfunction-Medical and Psychological Treatments, Committee 14. J Sex Med 2018; 14:1463-1491. [PMID: 29198504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since the millennium we have witnessed significant strides in the science and treatment of female sexual dysfunction (FSD). This forward progress has included (i) the development of new theoretical models to describe healthy and dysfunctional sexual responses in women; (ii) alternative classification strategies of female sexual disorders; (iii) major advances in brain, hormonal, psychological, and interpersonal research focusing on etiologic factors and treatment approaches; (iv) strong and effective public advocacy for FSD; and (v) greater educational awareness of the impact of FSD on the woman and her partner. AIMS To review the literature and describe the best practices for assessing and treating women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder, female sexual arousal disorder, and female orgasmic disorders. METHODS The committee undertook a comprehensive review of the literature and discussion among themselves to determine the best assessment and treatment methods. RESULTS Using a biopsychosocial lens, the committee presents recommendations (with levels of evidence) for assessment and treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder, female sexual arousal disorder, and female orgasmic disorders. CONCLUSION The numerous significant strides in FSD that have occurred since the previous International Consultation of Sexual Medicine publications are reviewed in this article. Although evidence supports an integrated biopsychosocial approach to assessment and treatment of these disorders, the biological and psychological factors are artificially separated for review purposes. We recognize that best outcomes are achieved when all relevant factors are identified and addressed by the clinician and patient working together in concert (the sum is greater than the whole of its parts). Kingsberg SA, Althof S, Simon JA, et al. Female Sexual Dysfunction-Medical and Psychological Treatments, Committee 14. J Sex Med 2017;14:1463-1491.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stanley Althof
- Case Western Reserve University Medical School, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - James A Simon
- George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Roya L Rezaee
- Case Western Reserve University Medical School, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Future Targets for Female Sexual Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2016; 13:1147-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
7
|
Yoon H, Park K. Pharmacologic management of female sexual dysfunction. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2016. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2016.59.2.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hana Yoon
- Department of Urology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwangsung Park
- Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nappi RE, Cucinella L. Advances in pharmacotherapy for treating female sexual dysfunction. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2015; 16:875-87. [DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2015.1020791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
9
|
Belkin ZR, Krapf JM, Goldstein AT. Drugs in early clinical development for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 24:159-67. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.978283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zoe R Belkin
- 1The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington, DC USA
| | - Jill M Krapf
- 1The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington, DC USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Levin RJ. The pharmacology of the human female orgasm - its biological and physiological backgrounds. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 121:62-70. [PMID: 24560912 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2014.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Revised: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The female orgasm has been examined over the years by numerous scientific disciplines yet it still has many secrets to be disclosed. Because its physiology, especially its neurophysiology, is sparingly understood its pharmacology is necessarily limited based mainly on the side effects of drugs. Few published studies have used a placebo group as controls. The paucity of focussed studies is well illustrated by the fact that there still is no approved medication to treat female orgasmic dysfunction. The present brief overview examines the most important aspects of its biology and especially its physiology highlighting the many questions that need answering if we are to have a comprehensive pharmacology of the female orgasm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roy J Levin
- Honorary Research Associate, Sexual Physiology Laboratory, Porterbrook Clinic, 75 Osborne Road, Sheffield S11 9BF, Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fooladi E, Davis SR. An update on the pharmacological management of female sexual dysfunction. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2013; 13:2131-42. [PMID: 22984935 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2012.725046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a global health issue, with as many as 12% of women over 18 years old reporting sexual difficulties associated with distress. It is a multifaceted problem with psychological and biological causes. Affected women tend to have an impaired quality of life, a decreased level of well-being and relationship issues. Hence there is a need for management options for affected women. AREAS COVERED This paper focuses on current pharmacological options for the treatment of FSD, particularly estrogens and androgens, which have been extensively studied. Some investigational drugs are also described, including the centrally acting agents such as flibanserin and bupropion, and intravaginal DHEA and testosterone, which may be useful as an alternative for women with specific conditions, such as breast cancer survivors. EXPERT OPINION Although approval for the use of testosterone for treatment of FSD is limited to some European countries and restricted to surgically menopausal women, there is extensive off-label use for this purpose. No other product has yet achieved regulatory approval for treatment of FSD. Completion of studies of nonhormonal FSD therapies and safety studies of testosterone may result in regulatory approval of such products for the treatment of FSD in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ensieh Fooladi
- Women's Health Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
IsHak WW, Bokarius A, Jeffrey JK, Davis MC, Bakhta Y. Disorders of Orgasm in Women: A Literature Review of Etiology and Current Treatments. J Sex Med 2010; 7:3254-68. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.01928.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
13
|
Abstract
Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) incorporates various sexual disorders including hypoactive sexual desire disorder, sexual arousal disorder, orgasmic and sexual pain disorders. Although many strategies have been formulated for the treatment of male sexual problems, FSD remains an area that warrants further research and trial studies to identify the most efficacious treatment options. Research has highlighted numerous pharmacological interventions that have been trialled and found to exhibit positive effects. These include hormonal therapies, prostaglandins, dopaminergic agonists, phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors and melanocortin agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Wylie
- Porterbrook Clinic, Sheffield, UK
| | - F Malik
- Porterbrook Clinic, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rooney M, Pfister W, Mahoney M, Nelson M, Yeager J, Steidle C. Long-term, Multicenter Study of the Safety and Efficacy of Topical Alprostadil Cream in Male Patients with Erectile Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2009; 6:520-34. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.01118.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
15
|
|
16
|
Kammerer-Doak D, Rogers RG. Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2008; 35:169-83, vii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2008.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
17
|
Costabile RA, Mammen T, Hwang K. An overview and expert opinion on the use of alprostadil in the treatment of sexual dysfunction. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2008; 9:1421-9. [DOI: 10.1517/14656566.9.8.1421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
18
|
Safarinejad MR. RETRACTED: Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of bremelanotide, a melanocortin receptor agonist, in female subjects with arousal disorder: a double-blind placebo-controlled, fixed dose, randomized study. J Sex Med 2008; 5:887-897. [PMID: 18179455 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2007.00698.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor-in-Chief. Following the retraction of Dr. Safarinejad's work by other journals, The Journal of Sexual Medicine has undertaken an extensive re-review of all papers Dr. Safarinejad published with the journal. Following an intensive re-evaluation and close scrutiny of the manuscripts, our expert reviewers raised multiple concerning questions about the methodology, results, and statistical interpretation as presented in this article. Dr. Safarinejad was contacted to provide his original data and offer explanations to address the concerns expressed by the reviewers. Dr Safarinejad chose not to respond. Consequently, we can no longer verify the results or methods as presented and therefore retract the article.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Administration, Intranasal
- Adult
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Double-Blind Method
- Female
- Humans
- Libido/drug effects
- Peptides, Cyclic/administration & dosage
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/agonists
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/agonists
- Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological/drug therapy
- Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological/drug therapy
- Statistics, Nonparametric
- Surveys and Questionnaires
- Treatment Outcome
- Women's Health
- alpha-MSH/administration & dosage
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Safarinejad
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Derzko C, Elliott S, Lam W. Management of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal breast cancer patients taking adjuvant aromatase inhibitor therapy. Curr Oncol 2007; 14 Suppl 1:S20-40. [PMID: 18087605 PMCID: PMC2140180 DOI: 10.3747/co.2007.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment with aromatase inhibitors for postmenopausal women with breast cancer has been shown to reduce or obviate invasive procedures such as hysteroscopy or curettage associated with tamoxifen-induced endometrial abnormalities. The side effect of upfront aromatase inhibitors, diminished estrogen synthesis, is similar to that seen with the natural events of aging. The consequences often include vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes) and vaginal dryness and atrophy, which in turn may result in cystitis and vaginitis. Not surprisingly, painful intercourse (dyspareunia) and loss of sexual interest (decreased libido) frequently occur as well. Various interventions, both non-hormonal and hormonal, are currently available to manage these problems. The purpose of the present review is to provide the practitioner with a wide array of management options to assist in treating the sexual consequences of aromatase inhibitors. The suggestions in this review are based on recent literature and on the recommendations set forth both by the North American Menopause Association and in the clinical practice guidelines of the Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians of Canada. The complexity of female sexual dysfunction necessitates a biopsychosocial approach to assessment and management alike, with interventions ranging from education and lifestyle changes to sexual counselling, pelvic floor therapies, sexual aids, medications, and dietary supplements-all of which have been reported to have a variable, but often successful, effect on symptom amelioration. Although the use of specific hormone replacement-most commonly local estrogen, and less commonly, systemic estrogen with or without an androgen, progesterone, or the additional of an androgen in an estrogenized woman (or a combination)-may be highly effective, the concern remains that in patients with estrogen-dependent breast cancer, including those receiving anti-estrogenic adjuvant therapies, the use of these hormones may be attended with potential risk. Therefore, non-hormonal alternatives should in all cases be initially tried with the expectation that symptomatic relief can often be achieved.First-line therapy for urogenital symptoms, notably vaginal dryness and dyspareunia, should be the non-hormonal group of preparations such as moisturizers and precoital vaginal lubricants. In patients with estrogen-dependent breast cancer (notably those receiving anti-estrogenic adjuvant therapies) and severely symptomatic vaginal atrophy that fails to respond to non-hormonal options, menopausal hormone replacement or prescription vaginal estrogen therapy may considered. Systemic estrogen may be associated with risk and thus is best avoided. Judicious use of hormones may be appropriate in the well-informed patient who gives informed consent, but given the potential risk, these agents should be prescribed only after mutual agreement of the patient and her oncologist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Derzko
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology, St. Michael's Hospital, and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
Drugs for Female Sexual Dysfunction. Obstet Gynecol 2007. [DOI: 10.1097/01.aog.0000285167.91575.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
22
|
Abstract
Dysfunction of female sexual desire, arousal, or orgasm affects approximately 30% of women. Early attempts to treat female sexual dysfunction arose out of programs developed for male erectile dysfunction and have proven largely unsuccessful. A new wave of targets is now being pursued; many of these targets are postulated to modulate central pathways. Classical neurotransmitter systems, such as dopamine and serotonin, as well as the neuropeptide melanocortin, are receiving the most attention. Early clinical data look promising; however, clinical trial methodology in female sexual dysfunction is not well developed and only further testing will determine whether these treatments meet regulatory hurdles and satisfy patient need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan D Brown
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Sandwich, United Kingdom.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|